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Catalonia

Best Places to Visit in Barcelona’s Barri Gòtic

Written by Elisa Rodrigues

Picture credits to RENFE SNCF

The Gothic quarter, or Barri Gòtic in Catalan, is today  the centre of the Old Town of Barcelona and is the city’s oldest quarter. It is bounded by the Fontanella street to the north, the Via Laietana to the east, the Passeig de Colom to the south and the famous boulevard La Rambla to the west.

Its history dates back to the Romans, when was built the Roman Colony Barcino, around the late 1st century BC. During the 13th and 14th century Bachinona (as the city was called at the time) became the main residence of the court of the Crown of Aragon. Then city experienced an impressive growth, transforming into one of the most important political capitals. Here, in the Gothic Quarter, we find  the City Hall and the seat of the Catalan Government – the Palau de la Generalitat, the Cathedral of Barcelona and many other historical monuments.

The Barri Gòtic features today a fusion of buildings dating from Roman times to the 20th century. The denomination “Barri Gòtic” was invented in 1911, to unify the Gothic architectural style of the area. Walking through its narrow streets will lead you into a medieval atmosphere, defined by several small squares, churches, gothic constructions and streets filled with trendy bars, clubs and restaurants.

More than an historical area, the Barri Gòtic presents today a vibrant and creative modern culture, with several artisan shops, street markets and restaurants offering authentic culinary experiences.

In this post we present a selection of the most historical, unique landmarks and places to visit at the Barri Gòtic, without undervaluing other points of interest, that should be included also but, honestly, if we would speak about all of them, the list would be endless, regarding its priceless historical heritage. A place of singular beauty and authenticity.

Montserrat Travel Guide – Best Attractions to Visit

Written by Elisa Rodrigues

Montserrat Mountain is one of the best locations in Catalonia, the views and sceneries you will see from Montserrat are breathtaking. This travel guide will help you to make the most out of your experience.

             

Montserrat is a mountain located 50 km from Barcelona, Spain. Reaches over 4000 feet/1236 meters high and is a prominent mountain made from enormous slabs of grey rock. In fact, the word Montserrat literally means “serrated mountain”, the mountain is also called “La muntanya dels cent cims” (The mountain of 100 peaks).  Every year thousands of visitors – alpinists, climbers, cultural tourists, ecotourists, hikers, nature lovers, mountain bikers, pilgrims and speleologists come to visit Montserrat.

There are many attractions to visit such as the Monastery Santa Maria de Montserrat and the Natural Park of Montserrat, one of Catalunya’s most beautiful natural parks, where you can find several routes of different complexity levels. If you are interested in the outdoors or in wildlife you will be impressed with the views of surrounding areas.

Exploring Montserrat mountain has become, today, one of the most popular day trips in Catalonia.

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