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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The chink of glasses and the murmur of chattering will catch your ears as you pass this 'blink and you'll miss it' Barcelona gem.
Just a stone's throw from the Picasso Museum, El Xampanyet is a brilliant bar. Attracting all sorts of people from locals to tourists, businessmen to backpackers, El Xampanyet is a slice of the real Barcelona.
Xampanyet (or Cava) flows freely - and pretty cheaply - while a variety of delicious tapas is also available. You may have to fight your way to the bar as this small bar gets quite crowded but this is all part of the charm. The hubbub and activity makes for a great atmosphere, whether you stop for a pre-dinner drink or an all night session.
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Amazing hostel, great prices! Basically dorm rooms with curtains round each bunk. Decent sized lockers, clean, cool place with cool people, definately recommended
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The name means "the snails", but every time I have been there it has been the spit roasted chicken that has taken my fancy.
Located on a side street off the bottom of the Ramblas it is not that hard to find. Follow your nose to the before mentioned chickens. Service is brisk and they coped with a big group no problems. -
One of the most unique shops for evening and wedding dresses is located in the bohemian quarter `el Borne´ in the Gothic Quarter. Entering the theatrical shop of the designer Natalie Capell, you will find a hand made fashion clothing elaborated with antique details and embroidery from the beginning of the 20th century. All displayed in a magical way.
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A lovely sweet shop but with that little bit extra.
Rock of all shapes and sizes are on sale and, best of all, you can see it being made right in front of you. From a mass of molten sugar, the most amazing colours and patterns are created. After nipping in for a present or two you'll find you've been there nearly an hour, mesmerised by the rolling and shaping being played out on the counter.
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This is a small museum with a fascinating collection of fabrics from mediaeval to modern, religious to secular. Upstairs there is an equally involving collection of twentieth century clothes and accessories. All the exhibits are beautifully displayed and the gallery attendants are sympathetic and patient. I took with me twenty fifteen year old students with sketch books (the Picasso Museum opposite had the most surly attendants that I've ever had to deal with and we were pushed through as swiftly as was possible). The shop is full of interesting, cheapish things. Look out for the 1960s bikini made out of fabric daisies.
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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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