Though hard to imagine today , there was a time when Barcelona was just a small Roman village (named Barcino) encircled by protective stone walls. Over the centuries, the village grew, culminating in a building boom in the 14th and 15th centuries. The Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter), a beautifully preserved neighbourhood of Gothic buildings, medieval places (squares) and atmospheric alleys, exists today as a splendid reminder of Barcelona’s medieval heyday. The web of ancient, treasure-filled streets in this compact area is best explored by aimless wandering. The barrio’s centrepiece – and its religious and social heart – is the 13th-century Cathedral and surrounding complex of period buildings. Nearby, the stately Plaça del Rei (Perfect Squares), is ringed by some of the best preserved medieval buildings in the area. Extending east of the Barri Gòtic is the ancient barrio of La Ribera, which includes El Born (El Born). Here, the lovely Carrer Montcada is lined with medieval palaces – five of which house the must-see Museu Picasso.
Cathedral spire
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Housed in the 15th-century Palau Castanyer, this enormous shop stocks posters, photos, oil paintings, souvenirs and prints of works by well-known Spanish artists.
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For over 75 years, this friendly, family restaurant has been delighting patrons with excellent Catalan cuisine at decent prices.
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A French-Catalan restaurant housed in a 17th-century building. Home-style cuisine with a twist includes duck with figs and goose flavoured with pears.
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The eclectic “Black Lemon” restaurant-club features ethnic and world music concerts, performance art and occasional art exhibitions.
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This warehouse-sized store has a vast array of colourful hand-made ceramics from all over Spain. Take your pick from a superb selection of Spanish wines and cured hams in the wine cellar.
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Resident DJs spin techno (Thu) and dance pop (Fri & Sat) at this buzzing spot.
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This shop’s delicate, hand-painted silks are created in an on-site workshop. Unusual designs include a Klimt-inspired, gilded silk.
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An old-fashioned, dark-wood ascensor (elevator) serves as the entrance to this dimly-lit, convivial bar frequented by a cocktail-swilling crowd.
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Soaring over the Barri Gòtic is Barcelona’s mighty Cathedral dating from 1298. See Barcelona Cathedral
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Uptairs sells honey, preserves and other foods made in convents and monasteries all over Spain. Downstairs you can sample all the delicacies in a cozy café on the site of a 15th century baths.
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Restaurant price categories
For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
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Barcelona International Jazz FestivalAs the sizzling summer heat dies down, Barcelona chills out with the Barcelona International Jazz Festival. Big band, bebop, gospel and Latin-jazz concerts take place at venues across the city,... Read more
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World Press PhotoThe Contemporary Culture Centre of Barcelona takes its turn at hosting the World Press Photo exhibition. Regarded as the most important display of photojournalism in the world, the award-winning... Read more
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Procession of the Three KingsThe Cabalgata los Reyes Magos, or Procession of the Three Kings, is a popular Hispanic Christmas tradition. In Barcelona, crowds gather at the harbour steps of the Moll de Fusta to witness... Read more
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Murder at the MuseumIf you're good at guessing the endings of crime novels, test your detective skills at Murder at the Museum. Barcelona's Museu de Ciències Naturals hosts the event, best described as a cross between... Read more
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