Netflix’s new Spanish series City of Shadows, known as Ciudad de Sombras in Spanish, launched with a shocking and visually stunning crime. The show quickly prompted one major question from viewers: is this brutal story pulled from real life? The simple answer is no, but the series cleverly uses a real city and its history to create a powerful feeling of truth.
The story begins when a powerful businessman is kidnapped, hung from the balcony of the iconic La Pedrera – Casa Milà in Barcelona, and burned alive. To solve this public and gruesome murder, a disgraced detective named Milo Malart is forced to return to work, partnering with analyst Rebeca Garrido. As they investigate, they uncover a killer targeting Barcelona’s elite, with each crime connected to the famous architectural works of Antoni Gaudí.
Is City of Shadows Based on a True Story?
City of Shadows is not based on a real crime or a true story. The series is a work of fiction adapted from the Spanish crime novel El Verdugo de Gaudí (The Executioner of Gaudí) by author Aro Sainz de la Maza. This book is the first in a series featuring the detective Milo Malart.
While the plot is invented, the show feels authentic because of its deep, undeniable connection to the real city of Barcelona. The murders are staged at Gaudí’s actual architectural landmarks, including Palau Güell and the Sagrada Família. The series uses these world-famous locations not just as a backdrop, but as a central part of the story’s atmosphere and the killer’s motive. Furthermore, the themes explored—corruption, the abuse of power, and social inequality—reflect real-world issues that resonate deeply.
The Fictional Story and Characters
The narrative follows detectives Milo and Rebeca as they realize the killings are not random acts of violence but a systematic plot for revenge. The investigation reveals that the murders are committed by the Guitart siblings, who are targeting influential figures they hold responsible for a deep personal trauma from their childhood.
The message stays on, about how abuse and trauma can turn innocent children into revenge-seeking criminals.
Milo Malart is a complex protagonist, brought back to the police force while dealing with intense personal struggles, including the recent suicide of his nephew. His partner, Rebeca Garrido, provides a calm and analytical balance to his emotionally worn demeanor. The killer, known in the media as “Gaudi’s Shadow,” is entirely a creation of the novel and the show, with no direct inspiration from any real individual or group.
Cast, Crew, and a Tribute
The series stars Isak Férriz as the troubled Inspector Milo Malart and Verónica Echegui as the intelligent Deputy Inspector Rebeca Garrido. The supporting cast includes Ana Wagener, Manolo Solo, and Jordi Ballester.
The show is directed and co-written by Jorge Torregrossa, known for other Netflix hits like Elite and Burning Body. The production was filmed on location across Catalonia, making Barcelona’s streets and landmarks a key character in the story.
Tragically, lead actress Verónica Echegui passed away from cancer in August 2025 at the age of 42. City of Shadows stands as one of her final performances. The first episode concludes with a loving dedication to her memory.
Release Details and Fan Reaction
All six episodes of City of Shadows were released globally on Netflix on December 12, 2025. The series is a Spanish-language thriller with the original title Ciudad de Sombras available for viewers.
The show has generated significant conversation online since its release. Many fans have taken to social media to share that they binge-watched the entire series in one sitting. One viewer on X (formerly Twitter) declared they were “up until 3am” watching it, while another praised Echegui’s “phenomenal” performance.
However, critical reception has been mixed. Some reviews praise the strong performances and the unique use of Barcelona’s architecture. Other reviews criticize the show’s pacing and execution, feeling the plot is overstuffed with themes or fails to build sufficient suspense.
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