Arranged around Placa de Sant Jaume Square are some of the most interesting examples of medieval architecture anywhere in Europe. A little further down the road is l'Ajuntament or the town hall, built back in the fifteenth century. Next door is the Parlament de Catalunya where the Catalan parliament holds its sessions. On the opposite side is the wonderful Palau de la Generalitat. Down Madoz, you can find the Palau Reial where a flea market is held each Sunday.
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| La Seu Cathedral Barri Gotic Barcelona |
If you are a lover of religious architecture, you will not want to miss the chance of standing in the Placa de la Seu outside for a good view. After that, you can enjoy a fine Spanish coffee or tapas while you continue to explore the buildings and many ornaments from a comfortable seat.
Even the smaller churches are well worth a look. The Iglesia de Santa Maria del Pi is an example that continues to attract visitors by the score every summer. There are even small hotels to stay at in the area for those who want to make the Barri Gotic home base in Barcelona.
In addition, there are sections that are still older. Barcelona is an ancient Roman city dating back some two thousand years. There are remnants of that beginning still in existence in modern Barcelona. Roman walls, stone streets and other elements betray the leftover Roman influence of the ancient city of Barcino here. At the Casa de l'Ardiaca it is possible to see remnants of a Roman aqueduct.
Yet, there are many modern sights to see as well in this area filled with historic buildings, enclaves and roads. The Els Quatre Gats is still in business, serving customers today as it once served Pablo Picasso. Not far away is the El Museo Picasso filled with the artist's works.
There are even examples of new architecture done in a much older style. The Bridge of Sighs hangs over one street between two buildings. Though built in the 1920s, it resembles its much older cousin in Venice from which it was copied. With its intricate stone railings and arches, it will provide architecture lovers with much to study.
Shoppers will find many worthwhile sights, as well. There are shops galore along Carrer de Ferran that are filled with bargains that any tourist will want to explore. Clothing, handicrafts, lace and a lot more besides, adorn walls that have seen many generations come and go.
In the public square, those who enjoy street performers can find an outstanding example in the weekly Sardana Dance performances given here. After applauding and donating a euro, wander over to one of the many cafes and have a cool cerveza. Later in the evening, explore the numerous nightclubs dotting the Barri Gotic. In Barcelona, old and new get along quite nicely.