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By Steven Cronin
High spirits and vitality govern in abundance when in
Barcelona. This infectious capital of Catalonia, and second
largest city in Spain, exudes soul and energy, living life to
the full. Barcelona’s verve is matched by its magnificent
architecture, characterised by one man’s signature, Antonio
Gaudi.
1. Las Ramblas
Running from seafront through to Placa de Catalunya, Las
Ramblas is a fusion of market stalls and street entertainment.
Watch out for the mime artists, though keep a hand on your
wallet.
2. Sagrada Familia Church
In progress since 1882, La Sagrada Familia is perhaps Antonio
Gaudi’s most magnificent achievement. As yet unfinished, the
ongoing construction of this gothic masterpiece is financed
through tourism.
3. Picasso Museum
Born in Malaga, Pablo Picasso moved to Barcelona during his
teen years. Though many of his greatest works are in private
hands, the Picasso Museum on the Carrer Moncada is well worth
a
visit.
4. Casa-Museu Gaudi
A pink, Alice-in-Wonderland house is the setting for the Gaudi
museum. Gaudi lived in this surreal location between 1906 and
1926 with his niece. Exhibits in the museum include furniture,
drawings and portraits designed by the great man himself.
5. The Poble Espanyol
Completed in 1929, the ‘Spanish Village’ is a compilation of
buildings representing the collective architectural
characteristics of Spain. A celebration of all things Spanish,
the village has become a gathering place to dine and be
entertained.
6. Bishop’s Palace
After being destroyed by fire, Bishop Juan Bautista Grau i
Vallespinós commissioned Antonio Gaudi to design a new, more
magnificent palace in 1887. Upon the bishop’s death, and
consequent interference from the diocese, Gaudi abandoned the
project. It was not inhabited until 1961.
7. Gothic Quarter
On the site of an ancient Roman village, the Gothic Quarter is
a contrast of contemporary and medieval architecture,
incorporating the magnificent 14th century cathedral.
8. Olympic Stadium
During 1992, the eyes of the world focused on the Olympic
Stadium in Barcelona as they hosted the Olympic Games. Today a
popular athletics facility, the stadium was a redesigned
version of the original built in 1929.
9. Passeig de Gracia
As one of the major shopping areas of Barcelona, Passeig de
Gracia caters for the modest, and also those who prefer the
more sophisticated boutiques. Bars and restaurants also line
the thoroughfare.
10. Lover’s Day
On behalf of those looking for romance, Barcelona obliges with
its own version of St Valentines, known as Lover’s Day,
celebrated every April 23rd.
About The Author: Steven Cronin owns the City Breaks website
featuring city break special offers from luxury hotels to
budget accommodations. For more information please visit
www.sargas.co.uk
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