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TKE leads escalator renovation of iconic site in Barcelona.

submitted by TKE
images courtesy of TKE

TK Elevator (TKE) has been awarded a contract for the complete replacement of 22 escalators at the historic host location of the 1929 International Exposition and 1992 Olympic Games: Montjuïc Mountain in Barcelona, Spain. The summit of Montjuïc Mountain, which is some 173 m above sea level, is home to a construction called Montjuïc Castle, as well as other landmarks that attract millions of visitors per year. The Montjuïc Cable Car, for example, achieved a remarkable 1.38 million trips during the first months of 2023, approaching its annual maximum of trips.^[1,2] The escalators, originally built for the 1992 Olympic Games, connect Plaza España with the Olympic Stadium.

The new project includes complete escalator replacement, installation of state-of-the-art digital monitoring and remote-control systems, as well as a multi-year maintenance agreement. TKE CEO Europe and Africa Bora Gülan said:

“We know this site very well, as we installed and attentively maintained the original Montjuïc units. We look forward to modernizing the infrastructure to enhance accessibility and quality of life for millions who will visit this beautiful site. We are proud to play a role in this transformation and deliver novel solutions that help make this important location more efficient and sustainable.”

Advanced Digital Monitoring for Enhanced Control and Efficiency

Barcelona de Serveis Municipals (BSM) ensures smooth passenger flow in high-traffic destinations like Montjïuc (which means “Jewish Mountain”^[3]) by controlling the lighting and direction of its escalators. Through real-time system control, BSM extracts usage reports for optimal escalator operation and maintenance. BSM currently uses TKE’s MAX Internet of Things monitoring system powered by Insight at Montjuïc. The customer was so pleased with the performance, they requested the system for the renewal project. “We are delighted to lead this large-scale project at Montjuïc and continue to show how our MAX digital solutions improve the passenger experience and accessibility of urban environments,” TKE CEO Portugal, Italy and Africa Pedro Martín said. 

Efficient and Sustainable Solutions for Europe’s Evolving Urban Landscapes

With city populations increasing, building and infrastructure designs are adjusting to support greater community flow through reliable, modern mobility. TKE is dedicated to keeping the urban world moving by reimaging how vertical transportation can meet the evolving needs of more people traveling greater distances.

As a global leader in comprehensive mobility solutions, TKE has been instrumental in making efficient movement possible in European cities, especially in Spain. For many years, TKE Spain has been a leader in large, distinguished accessibility projects in cities such as Toledo, Vigo, Santander, San Sebastian and Bilbao, to name a few. The company’s forward-thinking elevator, escalator and moving walk products — designed for lower environmental impact, improved energy efficiency and enhanced rider safety and comfort — have helped ensure the most challenging urban environments in Spain are easy to access and explore.

A Renowned Cultural Site

Montjuïc, a historic hill in Barcelona, is renowned for its cultural and sporting significance. It offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. Montjuïc is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Montjuïc Castle, the Magic Fountain and the Palau Nacional, which houses the National Art Museum of Catalonia. The area was a focal point during the 1992 Summer Olympics, hosting numerous events and facilities, such as the Olympic Stadium and the Montjuïc Communications Tower. Today, Montjuïc continues to be a vibrant cultural hub, attracting both tourists and locals with its lush gardens, museums and recreational opportunities.

References

[1] telefericdemontjuic.cat/en/montjuic-castle-0

[2] barcelona-tickets.com/montjuic-cable-car-tickets/plan-your-visit/

[3] barcelona-tourist-guide.com/en/areas/montjuic-district.html