Sabadell History, Spain

Sabadell is the second biggest city and the co-capital of Valles Occidental’s comarca in Spain. It is both a city of commerce and industry with no significant farming pursuits. Apart from this, Sabadell is a significant communications spot with several roads leading to neighboring towns and cities.

Sabadell History – First Settlements

As recorded in Sabadell History, the very first villages in the area were founded 7,000 years ago. The settlers during that time were mainly farmers. A series of excavations proved that farmers and herdsmen lived in Catalanio, as well as Sabadell, some 2,700 years ago.

Sabadell History – Roman Occupation

The very first Roman settlement in Sabadell took place in the 1st century BC. By the 1st century AD, the area where Sabadell is located prospered and developed significantly. This transpired during the reign of Emperor Augustus. Many industrial buildings and residential centers were constructed.

Sabadell History – Medieval Period

In 1039, the territories contained in Arraona were controlled by the Sant Feliu d’Arrona parish. Many buildings were built in the vicinity of the chapel and flour mills were erected along the riverbanks. The Forum Sabatelli, a crossroad, was first mentioned in 1111.

By the 14th century, the feudal lord’s hold of Sabadell came to an end and it became a royal town. With this, the city attained privileges which revived its economy. Sabadell’s population grew to 810 during this time.

Sabadell History – 15th Century

The city’s number of residents dropped during this century. However, this did not affect Sabadell’s development. The citizens continued to work for the city’s industrial and economic progress including the construction of the water channel along the Rosella Spring, the establishment of the Novella market garden, and the founding of the first cloth mill. This is indeed one of the most remarkable centuries in Sabadell History.

Sabadell History – Modern Age

During the 16th century, Sabadell’s territory began to expand and houses were constructed beyond its walls. The city’s growth persisted until the 18th century, its land area reaching 78, 272 square meters. Wool was the dominant industry from the 16th to the 18th century. Apart from this, the city also thrived in linen weaving, paper-making and pottery.

The population in Sabadell grew from 2,000 at the beginning of the 19th century to 23,044 in 1897. The first steam engine in a textile factory was built in 1838. Aside from this, Sabadell’s boundary expanded further and the first railway connecting the city to Barcelona was constructed during the latter half of the century.

Sabadell History – 20th Century

Sabadell’s industry skyrocketed during the 20th century, especially in metal works and textile industries. The economy of the city was updated with numerous services. Urban expansions were necessary since Sabadell’s population boomed with the growth of its industries.

During the 1970s, however, the city was faced with economic crisis which deeply affected its companies. This resulted in the closing of many of the businesses in Sabadell. At the start of the 1980s, the newly found democratic government devised ways to solve the city’s economic and industrial problems. As a result, Sabadell was able to recover from these sufferings. This made Sabadell continue to prosper like its neighboring cities Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona.