Found within the center of this metropolis is Barri Gotic or the center of the old city. This area houses some of the most magnificent representations of Gothic architecture in Europe. Many of the serpentine streets have even seen Roman occupation. Towering majestically is the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia. This cathedral was erected over the crypt of Saint James and stands as a powerful reminder of the art and elegance of 13th century design. Other sights include Placa Reial, commonly referred to as the Royal Square, the famous shopping street of Portal de l'Angel, and the artist epicenter Els Quatre Gats.
Antoni Gaudi is perhaps one of the greatest Art Nouveau architects hailing from Spain. His distinctive designs have left their fingerprints all over Barcelona. His work embodies the culture and the spirit of the Spanish culture and Catholic faith. Examples of his work are unmistakable. Spending your entire trip witnessing his masterpieces would not be poorly spent. His prominent list of buildings includes Sagrada Familia, Casa Vincens, Palau Guell and Church of Colonia Guell. A walk through Park Guell will turn you into a convert with its whimsical play on natural elements meeting a Catalon style.
A way of testing your museum feet is to dive right into the many museums and galleries in Barcelona. Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya's collection widely spans Romanesque to Modern Art. Housed in Palau Nacional, the building itself is a testament to architecture from the 1920s. For a more in-depth study of contemporary art, visit the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art. Visitors are blown away by the opportunity to see such an extensive collection. In addition to these museums, Centre d' Art Santa Monica, Centre de Cultura Contemporania de Barcelona, and Jardi Botanic de Barcelonia will give further insight to this city's fascinating history.
The food in Barcelona takes its culinary tradition from its Catalonia roots. Its influence on fresh local produce and array of meats is reflected in markets and street food. One of the most popular adventures tourists partake in is frequenting the many tapas bars, which serve a selection of food shared standing up. Generally eaten at dinner, tapas can consist of seasoned olives, octopus, cured meats, cheeses and sardines. The assortment you find and the social atmosphere very much represents the culture of Barcelona. While the modern pace of locals and tourists glide by relics from the past, Barcelona continues to transform and change with its ties to Catalonia culture.
