Introduction
We are in a delta environment, which has not always looked as it does today. In the Middle Ages, this area was a lagoon landscape with pastureland, dominated by livestock farming, and known as les Marines.
From the 16th century onwards, agriculture gradually expanded, first occupying land further away from the lagoons and waterlogged areas. Crops included cereals, fruit trees and even vineyards.
By the 19th century, agriculture took a significant step forward with the arrival of irrigation through the Canal de l'Esquerra del Llobregat, supplying Molins de Rei, Sant Feliu, Sant Boi and el Prat. However, it was in the 20th century that major landscape changes occurred and agricultural production became intensive. The western agricultural area, from Viladecans to Castelldefels, was added, irrigated using well water and reclaimed water from treatment plants.
Vegetable farming dominates the delta of the Llobregat. Artichokes are the most emblematic product, along with pumpkins, onions, chard and lettuce. Tomatoes are mainly grown in greenhouses.
Most of the farmland is protected as Parc Agrari and acts as a buffer zone between urbanised areas and natural spaces.
In Viladecans, efforts are being made to strengthen the link between the city and its agricultural environment, promoting a more conscious, sustainable and respectful relationship with the territory. The agricultural plain is a living, productive and fragile space, which is why actions are promoted to raise awareness and appreciation: from encouraging local, seasonal produce—through gastronomic initiatives and awareness campaigns with the hospitality guild and the commercial network of Viladecans—to supporting farmers and actively protecting the agricultural landscape and its unique habitats.