We spend five glorious days in Barcelona, known for its world-class architecture, artistic spirit, coastal beauty and lively culture. From the iconic works of Gaudí and Lluís Domènech and the charm of the Gothic Quarter to the flavors of La Boqueria and the beaches of Barceloneta, there are countless things to do in Barcelona.
The city is cradled in the North Eastern Mediterranean coast it is a city of modern art. —— Picasso and Miró have museums dedicated to them, some of the best seafood the Mediterranean has and fabulous tapas
Montserrat
Montserrat is a spectacularly beautiful Benedictine Mountain retreat about one hour from Barcelona by train and cable car. Montserrat” literally means “saw (serrated, like the common handsaw) mountain”. The mountain houses aBenedictine abbey which hosts the Virgin of Montserrat —- statue of the Virgin Mary and infant Christ in black color and one of the most pious and religious places in Europe
The highest peak at 4000 ft offers spectacular views and some great hiking spots.
In the funicular from saint jova a high peak
Tapas and pintxos is are small bites and are a key part of the gastronomic experience in Spain and are diverse to every region. We went to the a famous street in Barcelona where every restaurant serves these bite size treats and wine and sangria and beer. The variety of eats each pierced with a toothpick is daunting …..veg, seafood – fishshrimps anchovies – jabon ( ham) sausage eggs chicken the works. Once you’re done eating, the waiter or waitress will just count the amount of sticks in your plate, and charge you accordingly. Wish I could get back some, just feast your eyes.
Tapas desserts
This day devoted to the architectural wonders and sights of Barcelona.
Palau de la Música Catalana
This concert hall is a high point of Barcelona’s architecture, a symphony in tile, brick, sculpted stone. Porecelain and stained glass. Designed in the Catalan modernista style by the architect Domènech i Montaner between 1905 and 1908, the architect focused on light, nature( garden and flowers) and pride in Catalonia – the state he belonged to .
Street/ Block of Discord- Passeig de Gracia,
On this one block, three competing visions of Modernisare on view in the early 20th century designs of three prominent architects.Between the years 1898 and 1906 three of the era’s most important modernist architects took existing buildings on the block and refurbished them in such dissimilar visions and contrasting styles that the street is often referred to as “The Block of Discord.”
Gaudi’s Casa Batlló with it’s colorful facade, mask-like balconies and symbolic features such as the roof that resembles the back of a dragon. Currently under restoration.
Casa Amatller, designed by Josep Puig i Cadfaich and built in 1900 for a chocolate baron, Antoni Amatller. Looks like a big cake or gingerbread house. Yummy!!!!
La Bouqueria Market
Entering La Boqueria through the iconic gates ,the smell of the place immediately hits all ur senses.countless varieties of hams, hanging from butchers stalls, fish, baby squid, almonds, pizza, fresh eggs, spices, olives and other delicatessen offerings, an array of mouth-watering cheeses, breads, herbs, spices, , fresh fruits and vegetables…..Your senses will be overloaded by the amount of colour you will see throughout the market, especially when it comes to the fresh juices . Chocolate candy truffles never seen anything like this!
Artichoke chips another day . Absolutely yum
Saw a fabulous authentic nontouristy Flamenco performance in a local theatre. The intensity and passion comes through and through the footwork a delight to see
Montjuïc Hill is of great historic importance to the city. From ancient castles to Olympic stadiums and art museums, there is much to be explored on the slopes of Montjuïc.
National Palace of Catalonia and the MNAC museum are one of the most ornate and beautiful buildings I have ever seen. There are water fountains and ornamental statues—32 in total.
Montjuïc is also home to the Olympic Stadium, which hosted the 1992 Barcelona Olympic Games .The stadium had originally been built for the 1929 but was entirely refurbished ahead of the Olympics. The Montjuïc Telecommunications Tower is an important landmark designed by world-famous architect Santiago Calatrava and was used to broadcast the Olympic Games at the time.
Not to forget the fabulous shopping Zara at every turn of every street, Mango and my favourite Lefties Zara fare of the previous season at deep discounts
All in all Barcelona was more enjoyable the second time around. Maybe I have got better at planning maybe the crowds were less, but it really was a memorable three days!!
