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This busy, working monastery contains the Gothic Capella de Sant Jordi, a Romanesque church, and the Porta Daurada, a doorway that was gilded for Felipe II’s visit in 1564.

The west portal of this monastery (879) has reputedly the finest Romanesque carvings in Spain. Of the original buildings, only the doorway and cloister remain.

The dilapidated charm of this UNESCO World Heritage Site may have dwindled since its face-lift, but nothing detracts from the views it offers over Cap de Creus and Port de la Selva.

The cloister at this Gothic treasure (1150) is notable for the beautifully sculpted capitals by English artist Reinard Funoll.

Domènech i Montaner’s magnificent concert hall is a joyous celebration of Catalan music. Ablaze with mosaic friezes, stained glass, ceramics and sculptures, it displays the full glory of the Modernista style. The work of Miquel Blay on the façade is rated as one of the best examples of Modernista sculpture in Barcelona. (Palau de la Música Catalana).

This palace is a fine example of Gaudí’s experiments with structure, especially the use of parabolic arches to orchestrate space. Also remarkable is the use of unusual building materials, such as ebony and rare South American woods. See Palau Güell).

Dizzying spires and intricate sculptures adorn Gaudí’s magical masterpiece. Construction began at the height of Modernisme , but is still in progress more than a century later. (Sagrada Família).

On 13 June, those seeking a husband or wife pray to the patron saint of love.

These two churches are perfect examples of the Romanesque churches that pepper the Pyrenees. Dating from 1123, most of the original frescoes are now in the MNAC in Barcelona see Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya .

Though officially stripped of his sainthood as there was little evidence he existed, Saint Christopher was once the patron saint of travellers.