Barbican Estate: A Labyrinthine Utopia in London
2025-05-12
Three years after discovering the Barbican Estate online, the author finally visited this unique London complex built between 1965 and 1976. A two-hour resident-led tour revealed a fascinating blend of history, design, and hidden secrets. From underground parking garages filled with abandoned cars to Roman and medieval ruins, even a 1,000-year-old Jewish burial ground, the Barbican is far more than just housing. Inspired by ancient Egyptian and Battalion architecture, it features hidden passages and a dedicated online forum for residents. The article recounts the author's experience and recommends books for a deeper dive into this captivating place.
Design
Barbican