The metropolization processes in Catalonia, a state of the art review

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to do a state of the art review on territorial and urban transformation in Catalonia using numerous studies that have analyzed these processes in the last twenty-five years. The attention focus, firstly, in development of metropolitan dynamics, deployed initially from Barcelona, but eventually spread throughout Catalonia. Secondly, on those authors that analyzed the transformation of non metropolitan areas, involving certain demographic recovery, and some expansion of urbanization. Finally, this paper reviews the changes in consolidated coastal tourist areas, which have modified their functions and take on new residential component. With the combination of these dynamics, Catalonia is increasingly structured as a single functional unit.

Key words: metropolization; suburbanization; rural sprawl; residencialism; Catalonia.