Final Days for Historic Textile Shop
Magatzems del Pilar, a home textiles shop in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, will close permanently on Thursday 16 October, ending 113 years of continuous family ownership at Carrer de la Boqueria 43. The closure marks the end of five generations of the Pitarque Calaf and Vives families at the helm. The owners, Glòria Vives and her mother, announced their decision via Instagram, stating they will "lower the blinds of Boqueria 43" on that day.
Five Generations of Family Trade
The shop was founded in 1913 by brothers Alejandro and Juan José Pitarque Calaf, who had trained as apprentices before acquiring the original premises. The family moved into the upper floors of the building and renamed the store Magatzems del Pilar, a name it has retained for over a century. In a farewell post, the owners said the shop had been a constant through major events in the city’s history: wars, political changes, weddings, births, deaths, sporting events and pandemics. "Five generations have had a point of reference: the shop. And we have contributed our bit to Barcelona's Gothic Quarter," they wrote.
End of an Era for the Quarter
Until its closure, the shop will continue serving customers "while stocks last", both in person and through its website, Instagram and WhatsApp. The business is listed in Barcelona’s municipal register of emblematic establishments, a distinction for businesses with historical, architectural or heritage value. Its closure reflects a wider trend of traditional shops disappearing from the Gothic Quarter due to rising rents and shifting commercial dynamics. The owners said they were "calm and proud" of the legacy they leave behind, though acknowledged the decision was not easy. "The most important thing our shop has always had has been its customers. You have built this history," they said in their final message. Customers have until 16 October to visit the shop in person or place final orders through adelpilar.com.
Reported by elperiodico.com, Tot Barcelona, unilocal.es, unilocal.net, Trustfeed, barnacentre.com, directmap.es, El Periódico Barcelona.
