The city of Barcelona is located in the northeastern region of Catalonia, on the coast of the Mediterranean sea in Spain. This historical city is known for its buildings built in several architectural styles, its art museums and its parks with views towards the sea.

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The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. Taken during my visit last summer 2012.

Gaudi and Architecture.
Many visitors visit Barcelona for its architecture. The Sagrada Familia, one of Gaudi’s many masterpieces, is the city symbol. Visitors will be able to walk around the unfinished cathedral’s interior, visit the galleries that show the progress of the cathedral’s construction and climb up one of the towers from where they will be able to enjoy views towards this city.

Another of Gaudi’s masterpieces is La Pedrera. This large house is known for its wavy stone façade. There are no straight lines in this building and the rooftop is decorated with bony columns and has views towards the Eixample district. Next to La Pedrera is Gaudí’s Casa Batlló. This building has a façade covered in colourful tiles and skull shaped balconies.

The Gothic Quarter is located in the center of what used to be the ancient Roman city center. Some Ancient Roman ruins can be seen in this area, including the temple of August. The city’s Santa Creu Cathedral and other monuments built in a Gothic style are located in this area. The narrow stone streets of this neighbourhood are known for their many art galleries, cafés and vintage shops.

The district of la Ribera is the ancient neighbourhood of the craftsmen and most streets are known for the traditional crafts that used to be sold there. Some of these streets include Argenters, where silver was sold, and Sombrerers, the street of the hat makers. The Picasso Museum is located in this district, next to many other art galleries. The Basilica of Maria del Mar is one of the areas main attractions, known for its Gothic style.

The Plaça del Rei is one of the city’s most ancient squares, decorated with Gothic and medieval structures. The Palau Reial Major is a palace with several watchtowers with views towards the plaza. Another palace located on the square is the Palau del Lloctintent with several large patios. The mansion of Clariana Padellàs is now the Museum of City History where visitors will be able to see ancient Roman ruins.

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Park Guell in Barcelona. I was there!

Parks.
Another of Gaudi’s creations is the Güell Park. Located on a hill, the park is decorated with tiled fountains, porches with bony columns and large observation decks with views towards the city and the sea. A short walk away from the park visitors will find the Gràcia district, known for its many markets and plazas. The two main markets are Abacería and Llibertat.

Tapas.
Some of the city’s most authentic tapas can be found at the Boquería Market. This ancient market is located near La Rambla, one of the city’s main streets. Visitors will be able to buy fresh local products in one of the market’s many stalls and enjoy a picnic on the beach. Near the stalls there are several bars where visitors will be able to taste authentic local tapas, including bread with olive oil and fresh tomato, many warm dishes and crema catalana, a dessert made from custard and hard sugar. There are many other tapas places near the beach and in the historic city center.