Quirky Juberri Sculpture Gardens Cleared by Council Decision

The contemporary gardens in Juberri, known for their collection of quirky sculptures, have been almost entirely cleared following a decision by the Sant Julià de Lòria local council and residents last December.

Owner Nicole Grignon has removed nearly all her pieces—including dinosaur, giraffe, zebra, gorilla, bear, and elephant figures—from the council-owned land. Only works by local artist Ángel Calvente remain, alongside traces of disturbed earth and stone platforms. Grignon relocated the sculptures to her nearby property starting in early January, completing the process more quickly than the three-month timeline outlined in a 2004 agreement.

The closure stemmed from growing tourism pressures in the residential area, which caused traffic congestion, illegal parking, litter, and safety risks—such as blocked access for emergency services. After multiple meetings involving the council, residents, and Grignon, the council opted to shut down the site. Alternatives like charging an entry fee or moving the sculptures elsewhere were proposed but rejected by Grignon, who also noted that her heirs had no interest in maintaining them.

Cònsol menor Sofia Cortesao emphasised that the council did not act drastically, insisting no firm deadline was imposed beyond making the space available by summer. She described the gardens as having outgrown their suitability for a residential zone.

The council now plans to recondition the area into a smaller public park integrated with the natural surroundings, prioritising residents' needs. To redirect visitors, signage and communication efforts will promote established parish attractions including the Camí de la Senyoreta, Tamarro, Macarulla route, and Naturland. A new parking facility at Coma Bella is nearing completion to support these sites.