tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-104618562024-03-14T05:44:59.653+01:00Barcelona PhotoblogDaily pictures from Barcelona, Spain + Detailed Description + Helpful Resources + Other Cities' Daily ImagesCarlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comBlogger1567125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-50053090281939978542023-09-24T21:56:00.002+02:002024-02-28T18:34:49.474+01:00Gaudí's Visionary Architecture: Exploring the Innovative Structural Designs at Casa Batlló in Barcelona<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUTOCcqbKfAWtCiEsnr2SL1_yVFL9WYscbd7MI05nU1diEK25Top6R0JcNuFfCYUwuCW-H86soY_kIbgcMkEELDh6vDT8HfEsTQNwRGsKNMVn5-ubbNbyESLcvpoUGz3du6LdhissdO8ImdWw6sulRm_MAY_XVsc8sJ7tDjjWX3ZUh2y6MhlcldA/s966/Casa-Batllo-Mask-Balconies-covered-in-roses.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="966" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUTOCcqbKfAWtCiEsnr2SL1_yVFL9WYscbd7MI05nU1diEK25Top6R0JcNuFfCYUwuCW-H86soY_kIbgcMkEELDh6vDT8HfEsTQNwRGsKNMVn5-ubbNbyESLcvpoUGz3du6LdhissdO8ImdWw6sulRm_MAY_XVsc8sJ7tDjjWX3ZUh2y6MhlcldA/s16000/Casa-Batllo-Mask-Balconies-covered-in-roses.jpg" /></a>
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<p>
Casa Batlló is one of the most iconic buildings in Barcelona, located on the
famous Passeig de Gràcia avenue. Designed by the brilliant architect Antoni
Gaudí, Casa Batlló is a masterpiece of Modernist architecture and one of the
highlights of Barcelona for both locals and visitors.
</p>
<h2>The History of Casa Batlló</h2>
<p>
The building was originally constructed in 1877 by Emilio Sala Cortés as a
conventional house in the Eixample district. In 1904, Josep Batlló i
Casanovas, a wealthy textile industrialist, acquired the property and
commissioned Gaudí to completely remodel and redesign the building. Gaudí
worked on Casa Batlló from 1904 to 1906, completely transforming it into the
astonishing building we see today.
</p>
<p>
Gaudí aimed to avoid straight lines and traditional architectural solutions.
He redesigned the internal partitions, replaced the floors, staircases and
courtyard, and installed lifts to give the building a new facade and roof. The
result was a fascinating riot of colors, textures, and forms that represented
Gaudí's unique vision and skills.
</p>
<p>
Casa Batlló has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with
several other Gaudí works in Barcelona. It is now open to the public as a
museum and receives over 1 million visitors per year who come to admire
Gaudí's imaginative designs.
</p>
<h2>The Exterior Facade</h2>
<p>
The facade of Casa Batlló is one of its most eye-catching elements. It
features a striking mosaic decoration using 'trencadís' - broken ceramic
pieces in green, blue and orange which Gaudí obtained from waste scraps from a
tile factory. The tiles glitter in the sun and evoke the scales of a mythical
creature. The building has been nicknamed "Casa del Drac" (House of the
Dragon) because of its reptilian appearance.
</p>
<p>
The balconies on the facade resemble carnival masks with its irregular oval
openings for eyes and buttons and bones shaped in wrought ironwork. The smooth
curves are reminiscent of water lilies. Meanwhile, the arched roof is likened
to the spine of a dragon. Gaudí used typical Modernist ornamental elements but
subverted structural logic to create an oneiric, fantasy-like effect.
</p>
<p>
At street level, the building appears to be supported by columns that twist as
they descend and fan out to anchor the structure. This was an innovative
approach by Gaudí to devise new architectural forms and make better use of
space.
</p>
<h2>The Loft and Noble Floor</h2>
<p>
Entering Casa Batlló, visitors are greeted by the building's famous central
skylight staircase, filling the space with natural light. The grand noble
floor was designed for receptions and parties by the Batlló family.
</p>
<p>
Here one finds the main hall with windows overlooking Passeig de Gràcia. The
wooden coffered ceiling resembles the ribcage of an animal. The doors are
decorated with bone-shaped handles. Various salons lead off the main hall, all
featuring Gaudí's signature curves and clever use of light and space.
</p>
<p>
The loft under the attic roof was originally a service area for the building
residents but now houses the museum exhibition. It displays furniture designed
by Gaudí for Casa Batlló and explains his architectural approach. The loft has
a peaceful, reflective atmosphere with its reduced palette of white and gray.
</p>
<h2>The Noble Floor and Courtyard</h2>
<p>
Below the main floor, the noble floor contains the grand rooms used by the
Batlló family. The ceilings are spectacular vaulted arches with circular
apertures that create intriguing light patterns.
</p>
<p>
The wooden doors were designed by Gaudí and crafted by cabinetmaker Eudald
Puntí. Each one is unique with different ornamental motifs. The handles are
also Gaudí's design in various ergonomic shapes for ease of use.
</p>
<p>
The central patio provides ventilation and natural light inside the building.
Gaudí replaced the existing courtyard with his signature catenary arches in
brick, topped by a hyperbolic paraboloid roof - one of the few straight lines
in Casa Batlló!
</p>
<h2>The Roof Terrace</h2>
<p>
One of Casa Batlló's most impressive elements is its roof covered in mosaics
creating a color explosion. The roof terrace offers spectacular 360 degree
panoramic views over Barcelona. Twenty-six different structures rise from the
roof, resembling chimneys or medieval warriors wearing helmets according to
different interpretations.
</p>
<p>
The centerpiece is the tower topped with a four-armed cross, the symbol of
Barcelona. Gaudí incorporated allegorical and heraldic elements representing
Saint George and the Catalan flag into his design. Mosaic tiles in green,
brown and yellow contrast with the bright blue of the Catalan sky.
</p>
<p>
A feature unique to Casa Batlló is the stone water drainage system formed of
conduits following the shape of the roof that Gaudí created. It demonstrates
his attention to functional details as well as aesthetics in his visionary
architecture.
</p>
<h2>Gaudí's Vision and Techniques</h2>
<p>
Casa Batlló demonstrates Gaudí's masterful ability to innovatively
re-conceptualize architectural space. Gaudí was given complete freedom by
patron Josep Batlló to redesign the building as he saw fit. He focused on
eliminating straight lines and planes and creating dynamic, twisting forms
resembling shapes found in nature.
</p>
<p>
Gaudí used complex modeling techniques including plaster, cardboard, ropes and
weights to design organically shaped walls, ceilings, doors and windows. These
forms allowed him to bring light deep into the inner spaces of the building in
innovative ways. He also incorporated symbolism from local history and
mythology.
</p>
<p>
Casa Batlló highlights Gaudí's genius in employing superior craftsmanship and
structural engineering to realize his artistic vision. The lower floors
required reinforced stone walls to support the open-planned loft space. The
interior patio created a light well that ventilated and illuminated the entire
building.
</p>
<p>
Gaudí was deeply knowledgeable about traditional architectural methods of
brick vaults and Catalan vaults. At Casa Batlló, he demonstrated his
creativity by producing new versions like the hyperboloid and parabolic vaults
that curve in novel, unconstructed forms.
</p>
<p>
Antoni Gaudí was a pioneer in the use of new materials and techniques in
architecture. His work at Casa Batlló showcases some of his most innovative
ideas.
</p>
<div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Trencadís</h3>
<p>
One of Gaudí's signature techniques is the use of trencadís, a type of
mosaic made from broken pieces of ceramic, glass, or stone. This technique
can be seen on the façade of Casa Batlló, where Gaudí used colorful ceramic
shards to create a vibrant and textured surface. The use of trencadís
allowed Gaudí to achieve complex and intricate patterns, adding depth and
visual interest to his designs.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Organic Shapes</h3>
<p>
Gaudí was heavily influenced by nature, and this is evident in the organic
shapes and forms found throughout Casa Batlló. The undulating façade, the
curved balconies, and the fluid lines of the interior spaces all reflect
Gaudí's fascination with the natural world. By incorporating these organic
shapes into his designs, Gaudí created a sense of harmony and unity between
the building and its surroundings.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: left;">Structural Innovations</h3>
<p>
Gaudí was also a pioneer in the use of innovative structural techniques. In
Casa Batlló, he employed the use of catenary arches in the attic, which
allowed for a more open and flexible space. These arches, inspired by the
shape of a hanging chain, distribute weight evenly and provide excellent
structural support.
</p>
<h2>UNESCO World Heritage Site</h2>
<p>
In 2005, Casa Batlló was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
recognizing it as a masterpiece of human creative genius. UNESCO declared it
"an outstanding example of Antoni Gaudi's architectural work which brought
innovative solutions to structural design and representational
architecture."
</p>
<p>
UNESCO also highlighted Gaudi's technical innovations in Casa Batlló: "The
structural solutions offered by Gaudi were unconventional, with a profound
understanding of structures grounded on careful analysis and inspired by
natural objects and organisms."
</p>
<p>
As a World Heritage Site, Casa Batlló has enhanced protection to maintain
its unique heritage and outstanding value for future generations. Visitors
are also educated about its cultural significance.
</p>
<h2>Visiting Casa Batlló</h2>
<p>
No trip to Barcelona is complete without visiting the spectacular Casa
Batlló, a highlight of the city's architectural treasures. Tickets can be
purchased
<a href="https://www.casabatllo.es/en/online-tickets/">online in advance</a>
or at the ticket office on site.
</p>
<p>
Casa Batlló is open every day from 9am to 9pm. A standard ticket allows
access to the main floor, loft, roof, courtyard and exhibition space. Audio
guides are available for an enhanced experience learning about the history
and details of this Barcelona icon. Photography is permitted (without
flash).
</p>
<p>
For those short on time, a fast-track ticket allows direct access to the
roof terrace via a separate entrance to marvel at the mosaics. Combined
tickets with other Barcelona attractions like the nearby Casa Mila are also
available.
</p>
<p>
Visiting Casa Batlló is an opportunity to stand inside a surreal, dreamlike
architectural sculpture brought to life. It remains a testament to Gaudí's
unparalleled creativity and vision that continues to astonish all who view
it.
</p>
<div>
Casa Batlló, one of the most iconic buildings in Barcelona, is a masterpiece
of the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí. Located in the heart of the city on
Passeig de Gràcia, this architectural gem is a must-visit for anyone
interested in Gaudí's work and the Modernisme movement. </div><div><br /></div>Casa Batlló, the captivating masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí, stands as a symbol of architectural brilliance on Barcelona's Passeig de Gràcia. Just as this iconic structure invites exploration, it would be a nice idea to delve into the world of languages to enrich your cultural understanding and better appreciate this and other hallmarks in your trips. Platforms like <a href="https://www.tutorhunt.com/" target="_blank">Tutor Hunt</a> offer opportunities to connect with experienced tutors, allowing you to embark on a linguistic journey alongside appreciating the wonders of Casa Batlló and Gaudi.<div>
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<h3><br /></h3>
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Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comPg. de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona, Spain41.3917 2.16491813.081466163821155 -32.991332 69.701933836178853 37.321168tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-64921534879710115622023-09-01T22:50:00.003+02:002023-09-02T22:20:28.204+02:00Expert Tips for Photographing Barcelona's Famous Architecture<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhFQ0SFEvi5IX99f_F8RvvHu9cEAZgHeuvDuNP7jchuGyposn_841bSuCQbFZHKaFIavP9ERmBi8ZT-toIuzvd1oFraWYirYsluQ6N6eQsOdl1q8mdi6Cd2BDaxr4p5QkMQnuQ640WvfOBbrrpg2d9ntOfuUhElAYhNkH9ehDr7vd2B37W0CBSrE_UA/s1600/Door-Demons-at-Palau-del-Baro-de-Quadras.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="986" height="440" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhFQ0SFEvi5IX99f_F8RvvHu9cEAZgHeuvDuNP7jchuGyposn_841bSuCQbFZHKaFIavP9ERmBi8ZT-toIuzvd1oFraWYirYsluQ6N6eQsOdl1q8mdi6Cd2BDaxr4p5QkMQnuQWvfOBbrrpg2d9ntOfuUhElAYhNkH9ehDr7vd2B37W0CBSrE_UA/s1600/Door-Demons-at-Palau-del-Baro-de-Quadras.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<p>Barcelona is world-renowned for its diverse and stunning architecture, from medieval Gothic cathedrals to colorful Modernisme buildings designed by famous architect Antoni Gaudí. Capturing Barcelona's architectural variety in compelling photographs requires paying close attention to lighting, composition, angles and perspective.</p>
<p>This comprehensive guide provides pro tips to help photographers master capturing standout pictures of Barcelona's architectural treasures that highlight their unique beauty.</p>
<h2>Choose the Right Photography Gear</h2>
<p>Having the proper digital SLR or mirrorless camera equipment is essential for quality architectural photography in Barcelona. Use a camera that allows interchangeable lenses and has high 20+ megapixel resolution for large prints of your Barcelona architecture photos.</p>
<p>Bring wide-angle and telephoto zoom lenses like a 16-35mm and 70-200mm to capture both full building facades and fine architectural details. A tilt-shift lens can eliminate distortion when shooting photos of tall iconic structures like cathedral spires or Gaudi's Sagrada Familia.</p>
<p>And don’t forget a sturdy tripod and remote shutter release! Together this photography gear allows flexibility in framing shots from any vantage point.</p>
<h2>Scout the Best Locations and Times</h2>
<p>Research famous Barcelona buildings and architectural landmarks you want to photograph. Plan when to visit each location by noting the sunrise, sunset, and daylight hours that cast the most appealing shadows or reflections on the architecture.</p>
<p>For night architectural photography, buildings tend to look stunning during the “blue hour” twilight period. Visit locations ahead of your Barcelona architecture photoshoot to scout the best angles and foreground elements like fountains or gardens to incorporate.</p>
<p>Architectural walking tours of the Gothic Quarter and Modernisme Route can help you discover lesser-known photogenic architectural spots beyond the major landmarks. Barcelona’s mixture of old and new structures situated close together provides nearly endless options.</p>
<h2>Compose Shots Creatively</h2>
<p>When composing your Barcelona architecture photos, look for intriguing symmetry, patterns, textures, and visual balance within the buildings. Frame key architectural details like ironwork, stained glass windows, entryways, columns, and staircases.</p>
<p>Shoot upward for a dramatic perspective of towering cathedral facades in the Gothic Quarter. Or head inside one of Gaudi's buildings to photograph the surreal ornamental design flourishes.</p>
<p>For wide exterior shots, position yourself so other elements like trees or fountains appear in the foreground to add depth. Don’t just take standard full-building shots—capture close-ups, tight spaces, and side-angles for more visual impact.</p>
<h2>Focus on Capturing Optimal Lighting</h2>
<p>Watch how the direction and quality of lighting transforms building textures, shapes and colors throughout the day. Low morning and evening sunlight produces extended shadows that accentuate architectural contours. Strong midday sun can saturate colorful building facades in vivid hues.</p>
<p>Overcast skies softly diffuse light to reduce shadows and evenly illuminate architectural details. Try using slow shutter speeds to blur the motion of clouds and traffic to highlight stationary buildings.</p>
<p>When shooting interiors of landmarks like the Palau de la Música Catalana, use HDR techniques to balance dim and bright areas. Lighting is absolutely key for conveying a structure's unique atmosphere.</p>
<h2>Master Perspective and Distortion Techniques</h2>
<p>Shooting straight upward at monumental buildings like the Sagrada Familia can cause distorting effects like converging verticals. To minimize this, photograph from a distance using a slightly elevated viewpoint. Try framing the cathedral through trees or arches to add perspective.</p>
<p>Tilt-shift lenses can also reduce distortion when photographing iconic Barcelona architecture. When shooting interiors, keep your camera angle horizontal to vertical lines to maintain proper perspective. Minding perspective brings out a building’s true proportions.</p>
<h2>Include Human Elements</h2>
<p>Although Barcelona's architecture takes center stage, people add scale and interest to architectural photography. Capture passersby naturally interacting with buildings to showcase their public functions and history.</p>
<p>For popular tourist sites, arrive early to take crowd-free shots before opening hours. Or use long exposures to make crowds disappear into blurs. When including people, pay close attention to composition so they don’t dominate or detract from the architecture itself.</p>
<h2>Edit and Enhance Photos</h2>
<p>Post-processing polishes your Barcelona architecture photos into refined final products ready for your photography portfolio website. Carefully adjust tone, temperature, clarity, vibrance and other key settings until the image closely matches the actual building.</p>
<p>Correct minor lens distortion and perspective flaws. Enhance details lost in shadows or highlights using advanced techniques like HDR. Convert colorful shots to classic black-and-white for timeless architectural appeal.</p>
<p>However, avoid overediting that diminishes the architectural authenticity. Subtle enhancements make already great architectural shots shine.</p>
<h2>Focus on Barcelona's Famous Architectural Styles</h2>
<h3>Capturing Barcelona's Romanesque and Gothic Architecture</h3>
<p>Barcelona’s medieval Gothic Quarter provides intricate architectural details on 13th to 15th century cathedrals, palaces and mansions. The 14th century Santa Maria del Mar basilica exemplifies Catalan Gothic design with soaring vaults, stained glass windows and gargoyles.</p>
<p>Use wide angle lenses to capture the entirety of massive exterior cathedral facades, along with surrounding plazas and structures. Telephoto lenses isolate sculptural accents like stone carvings and ironwork. Morning and evening offer appealing exterior Gothic Quarter lighting.</p>
<p>Interiors of the Gothic cathedrals are much dimmer, so use tripods and slow shutter speeds to evenly balance interior lighting.</p>
<h3>Photographing Gaudí’s Surreal Modernisme Architecture</h3>
<p>Modernisme architect Antoni Gaudí’s fantastical Barcelona buildings are artistic centerpieces. For Gaudí’s most famous work, the still-unfinished Sagrada Familia, morning sunlight spotlights the dizzying sculptural detail on the Passion and Nativity facades.</p>
<p>Contrast the daytime busyness against the stillness of night shots sans crowds. Telephoto lenses compress perspectives when photographing the towering 18 spires.</p>
<p>Park Güell’s colorful mosaics shine under direct midday sun. The undulating ceramic-encrusted bench surrounding the Monumental Zone creates a whimsical abstract composition. At the Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, shoot tight abstracts of the surreal chimneys and warped ironwork.</p>
<p>Gaudí's dreamlike organic forms reward photographers who explore every possible angle.</p>
<h3>Photogenic Contemporary Architecture</h3>
<p>Beyond Barcelona's old landmarks, newer architectural icons include Jean Nouvel’s luminous Torre Agbar, Calatrava’s communications tower on Montjuïc, and Ricardo Bofill’s postmodern Walden 7 apartments.</p>
<p>Capture the <a href="https://www.miradortorreglories.com/en/" target="_blank">Torre Agbar</a>’s color-changing LED lights during the evening for vivid reflections in surrounding glass towers. The soaring steel and glass communications tower looks impressive photographed head-on or from low angles.</p>
<p>Shoot <a href="https://ricardobofill.com/projects/walden-7-2/" target="_blank">Walden 7</a>’s honeycomb of cubist apartments from a distance to emphasize geometric patterns and repetitions. Barcelona’s contemporary building designs offer bold shapes and eye-catching architectural details to photograph.</p>
<h3>Telling Barcelona's History Through Architecture Photography</h3>
<p>Photographing Barcelona's architectural changes over centuries of history reveals shifting aesthetics and cultural influences. The orderly gridlike streets of the ancient Roman settlement Barcino establish Barcelona’s original urban plan.</p>
<p>Striking Gothic basilicas represent medieval power and religion. Gaudí's organic Modernisme architecture ties to 19th century Catalan identity and Art Nouveau style.</p>
<p>Photographing Barcelona architecture across eras illustrates how buildings reflect changing societal values over time.</p>
Besides all of the above here are:
<h2>10 Tips for Capturing Unique Perspectives of Barcelona's Architecture</h2>
<p>Barcelona's architecture offers endless possibilities for unique photographic perspectives. Here are 10 tips to capture the city's buildings from refreshing new angles:</p>
<ol>
<li>Shoot upward from ground level for dramatic angles of tall facades and spires.</li>
<li>Get elevation - Photograph from high vantage points like rooftop terraces or Montjuïc for cityscapes.</li>
<li>Try a fisheye lens to exaggerate curves and angles.</li>
<li>Reflections - Use windows, water and modern facades as reflective surfaces.</li>
<li>Details - Abstract architectural elements like textures, patterns, and shadows.</li>
<li>Interior architecture - Concert halls, apartments, iconic ceiling details.</li>
<li>Creative framing - Use tunnels, arches, trees to frame subjects uniquely.</li>
<li>Juxtaposition - Contrast old and new architecture in one frame.</li>
<li>Symmetry - Photograph head on for graphic symmetrical compositions.</li>
<li>People - Capture authentic interactions and activities around buildings.</li>
</ol>
<p>Applying even a couple of these tips when photographing Barcelona's landmarks will lend a fresh perspective to your images.</p>
Another aspect to bear in mind is:
<h2>Mastering Lighting for Barcelona Architecture Photography</h2>
<p>Lighting transforms Barcelona's buildings. Follow these tips to master capturing optimal architectural lighting:</p>
<ul>
<li>Golden hour - Sunrise/sunset warm light brings out textures.</li>
<li>Blue hour - Twilight moments when buildings are colorfully illuminated.</li>
<li>Overcast/rain - Flat, even lighting great for details.</li>
<li>Direct sun - Bold shadows and saturated colors.</li>
<li>HDR - Balances bright and dark areas of high-contrast scenes.</li>
<li>Long exposures - Blur clouds/people, smooth water surfaces.</li>
<li>Mixed lighting - Interior and exterior light together create mood.</li>
<li>Artificial light - Nightscapes, concerts halls lit dramatically.</li>
<li>Backlighting - Rim/silhouette buildings for bold outlines.</li>
<li>Reflections - Glass towers, water and more reflect light beautifully.</li>
</ul>
<p>Photographing in different types of light will reveal Barcelona's architecture in varied and stunning ways.</p>
Composition is another vital part of good architecture photography:
<h2>How to Compose Eye-Catching Barcelona Architecture Photos</h2>
<p>Strong composition elevates architectural photography. Use these tips when framing Barcelona's buildings:</p>
<ul>
<li>Rule of thirds - Place subject off-center for balance.</li>
<li>Leading lines - Guide the eye through the frame.</li>
<li>Viewpoint height - Shoot from above, below, or straight on.</li>
<li>Symmetry - Front and center compositions are visually striking.</li>
<li>Patterns and shapes - Repetition creates graphical interest.</li>
<li>Foreground interest - Gardens, sculptures, water features add depth.</li>
<li>Negative space - Blank areas like walls direct focus onto main subject.</li>
<li>Framing - Use arches, tunnels, trees, etc to frame creatively.</li>
<li>Cropping - Get close, crop out context for abstract architectural shots.</li>
<li>Perspective - Correct or accentuate the angles and distortion.</li>
</ul>
<p>Applying compositional techniques will take your Barcelona architecture photography to the next level.</p>
If you want examples of the best hallmarks to practice your architecture photography consider the following:
<h2>How to Photograph Barcelona's Most Famous Architectural Landmarks</h2>
<h3>La Sagrada Familia</h3>
<p>Gaudi's awe-inspiring basilica comes alive in different lighting. Capture the dizzying details on the Passion Facade in morning sun. At blue hour, the illuminated spires and Nativity Facade create magical images. <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2015/12/crypt-pillars-and-ceiling-at-sagrada.html" target="_blank">Shoot upward</a> for grand perspectives of the soaring spires and ceiling. Compose using framing elements like archways or trees outside. Try creative angles from the surrounding parks.</p>
<h3>Casa Batlló</h3>
<p>The facade's uneven ceramic tiles in earth tones create intriguing abstract patterns. Shoot straight on for colorful symmetrical images. Photograph the smooth rounded balcony railings at night when illuminated. Inside, spiraling staircases make for strong composition. Details like the <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2020/10/casa-batllo-visionary-project-by-gaudi.html" target="_blank">skeletal attic roof</a>, chimneys and window frames also stand out when photographed closely.</p>
<h3>Casa Milà</h3>
<p>The <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/09/la-pedrera-or-casa-mila-by-gaudi.html" target="_blank">undulating stone facade</a> resembles waves - shoot low angles to accentuate the effect. Capture repeating arches and windows straight on for graphical images. The <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2011/11/gaudi-chimneys-amazing-surreal-shapes.html" target="_blank">rooftop chimneys</a> are one of Barcelona's most photographed details - shoot at blue hour or use them as frames in daytime shots. The interior lightwell's plant-like pillars and ceiling light effects create dramatic architectural shots.</p>
<h3>Park Güell</h3>
<p>The <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2013/04/art-nouveau-mosaics-trencadis-technique.html" target="_blank">colorful mosaics</a> along winding walkways generate beautifully abstract and symmetrical compositions. Capture the famous dragon backed bench with musicians from different angles and in varied lighting. Shoot downward from atop the Monumental Zone framing the city in the distance. Details like tile patterns, columns and fountains are photogenic. Time your shoot for sunset when warm light saturates the architecture.</p>
<h3>Palau Güell</h3>
<p>Shoot exteriors with the fruited chimneys and wrought iron elements contrasted against blue sky for an impressive image. Inside, the hyperbolic paraboloid archways make strong repetitive patterns. Unique details to capture include the intricate wood ceilings and the underground stables area with mushroom-like brick columns.</p>
<h3>Palau de la Música Catalana</h3>
<p>The kaleidoscopic <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2006/11/catalan-modernisme-stained-glass.html">stained-glass skylight</a> is a stunning subject when shot upward. Details like the floral capitals, elaborate lamp fixtures and ornate carving offer beautiful closeup compositions. On stage, the sweeping horseshoe-shaped rows of seating lead the eye. Time interior shoots during a daytime concert for atmospheric architectural images bathed in natural light.</p>
Once you have your beautiful images it is time for some edition:
<h2>Editing Tips for Enhancing Your Barcelona Architecture Photos</h2>
<p>Post-processing can take your architectural images to the next level. Try these edits:</p>
<ul>
<li>Adjust white balance for color accuracy.</li>
<li>Fix lens distortion issues.</li>
<li>Correct perspective and vertical lines.</li>
<li>Enhance details in shadows/highlights.</li>
<li>Saturation - Boost vividness of Gaudí buildings' colors.</li>
<li>Dodge and burn for balanced exposure throughout.</li>
<li>Add vignette to focus attention on subject.</li>
<li>Black and white conversion for timeless images.</li>
<li>HDR for high contrast scenes.</li>
<li>Creative cropping for unique compositions.</li>
</ul>
<p>Subtle editing elevates photos without looking artificial. Handle adjustments with care to represent Barcelona's architecture authentically.</p>
If you want examples of beautiful areas to walk around looking for nice architecture, take a look at:
<h2>Top Photography Spots for Barcelona's Best Architecture</h2>
<h3>The Gothic Quarter</h3>
<p>This medieval labyrinth of narrow streets contains the Cathedral, <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2006/09/santa-maria-del-mar-church-barrio.html" target="_blank">Santa Maria del Mar church</a>, Palau de la Generalitat and other <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2008/09/rose-window-santa-maria-del-pi-church.html" target="_blank">ornate Gothic buildings</a>. Capture maze-like shots of the stone architecture along atmospheric alleys.</p>
<h3>Passeig de Gràcia</h3>
<p>The most elegant buildings and two of Gaudi's masterpieces - Casa Batlló and Casa Milà - line this beautiful boulevard. Photograph Modernisme and other striking facades from the median or framed by palm trees.</p>
<h3>Montjuïc</h3>
<p>The hilltop provides elevated cityscape vantage points. Photograph the MNAC museum, <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/10/montjuic-fountains-magic-show.html" target="_blank">Magic Fountain lightshow</a>, <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2006/08/barcelona-chair-by-ludwig-mies-van-der.html" target="_blank">Mies van der Rohe</a> <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2006/09/modern-architecture-mies-van-der-rohe.html" target="_blank">Pavilion</a> and more from scenic overlooks.</p>
<h3>Eixample</h3>
<p>The grid-like streets contain many Modernisme apartment buildings with <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/06/art-nouveau-balcony-barroque-influence.html" target="_blank">ornate facades</a>. Unique repetitive patterns and details emerge when photographing rows of the structures.</p>
<h3>Parc Güell</h3>
<p>Gaudi's mosaic park offers colorful architectural elements to photograph like the main terrace, pavilions, <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/03/park-guell-columns-mathematical.html" target="_blank">colonnades</a>, sculptural elements, <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2008/01/serpentine-bench-detail-at-park-guell.html" target="_blank">serpentine benches</a>.</p><h2>In Summary</h2>
<p>Photographing Barcelona’s diverse architecture requires understanding how to utilize angles, light and composition for maximum visual impact. Unique photographic details emerge at different times and from unexpected viewpoints. Beyond major monuments, lesser-known architectural gems also color Barcelona's streets.</p>
<p>Looking at buildings through an artistic eye transforms structures into emotionally captivating photographic works of art. Patiently exploring Barcelona’s architectural environment yields images that tell rich visual stories about this historic city. With these pro tips, your Barcelona architecture photos will capture the vibrant architectural spirit of this world-class city.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCCxBW4cT0CgtA7P9H5byhG7Rcmt0HB2dcdVDRNRiNiXZvbPXUaqqT5FJJAkEjBWMIm8o0DNb1fD2auIQxsQfWDmVrycCEMb1u3CP32049CgIctfYYXDn1aj3gNvF8v5cV7cKlQfsiPfrSP-pIL1oQLfafzVuiv1JTVNoWsupUzTUe_-n1Wufdw/s966/Fountain-at-Palau-Baro-de-Quadras-building.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="966" data-original-width="640" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijCCxBW4cT0CgtA7P9H5byhG7Rcmt0HB2dcdVDRNRiNiXZvbPXUaqqT5FJJAkEjBWMIm8o0DNb1fD2auIQxsQfWDmVrycCEMb1u3CP32049CgIctfYYXDn1aj3gNvF8v5cV7cKlQfsiPfrSP-pIL1oQLfafzVuiv1JTVNoWsupUzTUe_-n1Wufdw/w265-h400/Fountain-at-Palau-Baro-de-Quadras-building.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<p></p>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-69086590656247420732023-08-18T01:08:00.006+02:002023-08-18T01:24:01.684+02:00Festes de Gràcia: A Celebration of Community and Catalan Culture<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAwtbzJwBK9bjU_4qIcVdKPP23KPdH0rbWeVLr2nv-PU6lvJ_DwwFotf630qAnQpwWn0PCWZqda4PuWJJIYHl5EX10xu0v6zsOQ7DvFyGjLEqRV3jP-RSTvxn2fDKBLSQnTIi-NOXYq4bjLzl6qBmjIEMiiOA-wQ7DWY4tFK-V86k2ZLxwAXwJOA/s1600/New-York-Rats-Lunch-atop-a-Skyscraper-Carrer-Verdi-del-Mig-Festes-de-Gracia-2023.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="New-York-Rats-Lunch-atop-a-Skyscraper-Carrer-Verdi-del-Mig-Festes-de-Gracia-2023" border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="1024" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAwtbzJwBK9bjU_4qIcVdKPP23KPdH0rbWeVLr2nv-PU6lvJ_DwwFotf630qAnQpwWn0PCWZqda4PuWJJIYHl5EX10xu0v6zsOQ7DvFyGjLEqRV3jP-RSTvxn2fDKBLSQnTIi-NOXYq4bjLzl6qBmjIEMiiOA-wQ7DWY4tFK-V86k2ZLxwAXwJOA/s16000/New-York-Rats-Lunch-atop-a-Skyscraper-Carrer-Verdi-del-Mig-Festes-de-Gracia-2023.jpg" title="New York Rats - Lunch atop a Skyscraper - Carrer Verdi del Mig - Festes de Gracia 2023" width="640" /></a></div>
<p>
The Festes de Gràcia, also known as the Festa Major de Gràcia, is the largest
festival held each year in the charming neighborhood of Gràcia in Barcelona.
Taking place for a week every August, this lively celebration brings together
residents young and old through colorful street decorations, traditional
Catalan dancing and music, delicious local cuisine, and a strong sense of
community.
</p>
<h2>Origins and History</h2>
<p>
The Festes de Gracia is a popular neighborhood festival in Barcelona that
traces its origins back to 1817. It began as a religious procession on August
15th to return an image of the Virgin Mary to a local convent after it had
been hidden during the Peninsular War and in honor to the Feast of the
Assumption of Mary. At the time, Gràcia was still its own independent town on
the outskirts of Barcelona. After Gràcia was annexed into Barcelona in 1897
and over the next few decades, the festival became more focused on celebrating
Catalan culture and community. It evolved into a week-long festival celebrated
annually in August, with decorated streets, music, dance, theater, parades and
more. By the early 20th century over 100 streets were decorated by local
commissions. In 1935 attempts were made to organize the festival under one
entity, but the Spanish Civil War interrupted this effort until 1956 when the
Federation of Streets was formed to unite and organize the various
celebrations. During the Franco dictatorship, when public use of the Catalan
language and traditions was banned, the festival became an act of cultural
resistance. Neighbors decorated streets with pro-independence symbols and sang
banned Catalan songs. After dictatorship the festival flourished as an
expression of Catalan culture and in 1997 was named a Traditional Festival of
National Interest by the Catalan government. In 2009 the Federation became the
Foundation of Festes de Gracia, focused on promoting the festival and Gracia
culture. The Festes continues today as one of Barcelona's most popular events,
bringing together neighbors to decorate streets and celebrate local heritage.
</p>
<h2>The Streets Come Alive</h2>
<p>
The most iconic part of Festes de Gràcia is the elaborate decorative displays
along major streets and plazas. Local resident associations each select a
theme and spend months preparing their street decorations, which are handmade
from recycled materials. Past themes have ranged from under the sea to fairy
tales to carnivals.
</p>
<p>
As you stroll through the decorated streets, you’ll feel fully immersed in
these creative worlds. On Carrer de l’Or, you might believe you’re deep below
the ocean thanks to paper fish dangling overhead. Wander down Carrer de Verdi,
and you’ll think you’ve stepped into your favorite storybook or movie scene.
It’s an incredible, ever-changing spectacle.
</p>
<p>
Some
<a href="https://beteve.cat/cultura/ultims-guanyadors-concurs-carrers-guarnits-festes-gracia/" target="_blank">standout street decorations over the years</a>
include:
</p>
<ul>
<li>
2017's Skiing station at Travessia de Sant Antoni was the best street
contest winner with an 'icy' and elaborate stage
</li>
<li>
In 2018, a rural farm full of animals gave the first prize to carrer
Llibertat
</li>
<li>
Carrer del Progrés, representing the magic world of Harry Potter, won the
award to best decorated street in Festa Major de Gràcia 2019.
</li>
<li>
'El bosc dels llibres' or the Forest of Books, a magic place with a big
mushroom as in a fairy tale gave carrer de la Santa Creu the first prize.
</li>
<li>
2021, due to the pandemic, became a special year in which
<a href="https://beteve.cat/cultura/gracia-lliura-premis-carrers-guarnits-edicio-tots-guanyadors-festes-gracia-2021/" target="_blank">all streets were declared winners</a>
and congratulated on their efforts.
</li>
<li>
In 2022, carrer Verdi was the winner thanks to their inspiration in the
famous Don Quixote by Cervantes
</li><li>2023 - <span style="font-family: inherit;">Carrer Progrés has won the competition for decorated streets of the main festival in the Gràcia neighborhood of Barcelona with a decoration inspired by the animated film </span>"A Bug's Life, a miniature adventure" <span style="font-family: inherit;">and named <i>Formigres</i>. The main characters are a group of giant ants that live in an anthill and are surprised by a plague of locusts that want to take their grain harvest.</span></li>
</ul>
<p>
The creativity and handcrafted details are astounding. As an attendee, you’ll
feel fully transported wandering these merry miniature worlds. It’s an
immersive experience found only during Festes de Gràcia.
</p>
<h2>Music, Dancing, and Traditions</h2>
<p>
Festes de Gràcia incorporates beloved Catalan traditions and performing arts.
You’ll hear the sounds of the gralla, a traditional Catalan double reed
instrument, accompanied by tabal drummers parading through the streets.
Revelers form circles to dance the sardana, Catalonia’s national dance,
accompanied by a cobbla band.
</p>
<p>
Human tower building, or castells, also play a central role. Teams compete to
construct the highest and most complex human towers, with levels of four to
ten people topped by a young child. It’s an impressive feat that requires
coordination, balance, courage, and community support. You’ll spot gegants,
large papier-mâché figures often depicting historic or folkloric characters,
dancing and winding through the crowds.
</p>
<p>
There are also correfocs, or “fire runs” - parades of people dressed as devils
who spin fire batons and set off firecrackers. The drums and fireworks make
for an exciting and raucous spectacle, but keep your distance to avoid getting
burned!
</p>
<p>Some of the cultural activities that have delighted attendees include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Nightly sardana dancing in Plaça de la Vila where all ages join hands and
dance in circles.
</li>
<li>
Gegants representing Count Arnau and the legendary St. George parading down
Carrer de Verdi.
</li>
<li>
A 25-foot dragon puppet weaving through the streets with glowing eyes and
smoke billowing from its nostrils.
</li>
<li>
Children forming mini castells of just 3 tiers, encouraged by their
community.
</li>
<li>
The correfoc finale lighting up Plaça del Sol with bursts of fire and
sparklers.
</li>
</ul>
<p>
The reverence for tradition fills the streets alongside playful revelry during
Festes de Gràcia.
</p>
<h2>Bringing the Community Together</h2>
<p>
While Festes de Gràcia has grown into a major tourist attraction, its
community focus remains. Thousands of residents volunteer their time to
put up decorations, run activities, and keep the celebration running smoothly
helped by the Festa Major de Gràcia Foundation which is a non-profit
organization that was born in 2009, heir to the tradition of the old Federació
Festa Major de Gràcia. As the organization's statutes state, the Festa Major
de Gràcia Foundation "has as its object the defense, promotion and
dissemination of Catalan popular culture in its broadest sense, and in
particular, the defense, promotion and dissemination of Festa Major de Gràcia,
in all its aspects, recreational, cultural, sporting and neighborhood, with
special protection for those lining the streets, squares and other spaces with
similar characteristics. It also aims to research, archive and disseminate the
historical documentation of traditional festivals in the old Villa and current
district of Gràcia in the city of Barcelona".
</p>
<p>
For locals, the week of Festes de Gràcia provides a chance to showcase their
community pride and talents. Neighbors spend time together decorating their
streets in the months leading up to the festival. Friends and families attend
concerts, enjoy local dishes from pop-up food stalls, and let loose dancing in
the streets. Children grow up attending year after year, developing fond
lifelong memories.
</p>
<p>
The festival ultimately strengthens social bonds and perpetuates traditions in
one of Barcelona’s most tight-knit neighborhoods. Even if you’re just visiting
Barcelona, you’ll easily feel the solidarity and spirit during Festes de
Gràcia.
</p>
<p>In terms of community-building, some highlights include:</p>
<ul>
<li>
Multi-generational families working side-by-side to decorate their assigned
street over many months.
</li>
<li>
Impromptu lessons teaching visitors sardana dancing steps on the spot.
</li>
<li>
Grillades or barbeques held on decorated streets where the whole
neighborhood is invited to eat, drink, and be merry together.
</li>
<li>
Local children excitedly pointing out their street's decorations to visitors
and friends.
</li>
<li>
A tangible feeling of connection and belonging that spans generations of
Festes de Gràcia participants.
</li>
</ul>
<h2>The Persistence of Culture and Community</h2>
<p>
Festes de Gràcia perpetuate Catalan traditions and neighborhood pride. While
its scale has expanded over two centuries, the community-driven spirit
remains. Joining in the festivities allows you to fully appreciate Gràcia's
singular culture.
</p>
<p>
When you attend Festes de Gràcia, you aren't just a spectator - you become
part of the community celebrating its identity. That combination of stunning
artistry and solidarity is what makes this one of Barcelona's most spectacular
festivals. Through rocking out to sardanes or getting lost in an enchanting
decorated street, you'll unlock Gràcia's vivacious heart.
</p>
<h2>Tips for Attending</h2>
<p>
Festes de Gràcia takes places from August 15th-21st each year. The decorated
streets are accessible 24 hours a day, but come earlier to avoid the big
crowds that pack the narrow streets at night. Wander through during the day to
snap photos without people blocking your view, then return at night when the
decorations are illuminated.
</p>
<p>
Schedule your visit on August 19th for the castellers competition or August
21st for the correfoc fire run finale. Check the schedule for concerts,
dances, parades, and other special events. Most activities take place right on
streets and squares, but some require tickets purchased in advance.
</p>
<p>
Dress comfortably to walk, dance, and navigate crowds. Wear closed toe shoes
in case of stray firecrackers at the correfoc. Pack water and snacks so you
can keep celebrating. And be sure to savor some classic Catalan dishes like
paella and botifarra sausage sandwiches from the street food vendors.
</p>
<p>
The Festes de Gràcia offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience Catalan
culture, community, and creativity. Join in the festivities to eat, dance,
play, and celebrate like a true Barcelonian!
</p>
<h2>Festes de Gràcia Schedule Highlights</h2>
<p>
<b>Monday August 14th</b> - The festival kicks off with the opening speech and
procession to Plaça de la Vila followed by concerts and castellers
performances.
</p>
<p>
<b>Tuesday August 15th</b> - Includes the traditional Mass, parade,
performances by grallers and bastoners, and the debut of the Bull of Gràcia.
</p>
<p>
<b>Wednesday August 16th</b> - Highlights are the parade and tribute to Saint
Roc and the exhibition opening of the visiting gegants.
</p>
<p>
<b>Thursday August 17th</b> - The ceremony announcing the winners of the best
decorated street contest.
</p>
<p>
<b>Friday August 18th</b> - Agenda has children's activities, a downhill walk,
and nighttime castellers performances.
</p>
<p>
<b>Saturday August 19th</b> - Packed with parades and dances showcasing the
guest gegants from Molins de Rei.
</p>
<p>
<b>Sunday & Monday August 20-21</b> - Wraps up with drumming, fire
performances, parades, and the closing correfoc fire run.
</p>
<p>
In summary, key events include lively celebrations, the contest ceremony,
parades and tributes, cultural performances, concerts, and guest gegants
festivities.
</p>
<p>
A <a href="https://media-edg.barcelona.cat/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/10165627/Festa-Major-de-Gracia-2023-Programacio-del-Districte.pdf" target="_blank">full schedule</a> in pdf or here at <a href="https://www.barcelona.cat/culturapopular/ca/noticia/infobarcelonacatot-el-programa-de-la-festa-major-de-gracia-2023_1312131" target="_blank">Barcelona.cat</a> in Catalan only. <a href="https://beteve.cat/agenda/festes-gracia-programa/" target="_blank">Join the festivities</a> to experience Catalan culture, community, and creativity! I think there should be an official translation of the schedule in English considering the amount of visitors to the activities. This is just a hint to whom it may concern.</p>
<h2>Tips for Making the Most of Festes de Gràcia</h2>
<p>
As one of Barcelona's biggest festivals, Festes de Gràcia offers endless
opportunities for fun. Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of
the experience:
</p>
<ul>
<li>
Arrive early to beat the crowds if you want to closely see the decorated
streets and snap photos. The streets pack with people at night.
</li>
<li>
Consider taking a guided walking tour for context about the history and
meaning behind traditions like castellers and sardanes.
</li>
<li>
Pack a picnic dinner or snacks to enjoy on the streets and save money. Beer,
wine, water and soft drinks are sold in local shops.
</li>
<li>
Download the festival app or pick up a program to plan which special events,
concerts, and activities to attend each day and night.
</li>
<li>
Dress comfortably in layers. August is hot during the day but can be cool at
night. Wear closed toe shoes in case of stray fireworks.
</li>
<li>
Practice your Catalan! Learn key phrases like "Bon dia" (Good day),
"Gracies" (Thank you), and "Visca Festes de Gràcia!" (Long live the Gràcia
Festival!).
</li>
<li>
Connect with locals by complimenting their street decorations or joining in
dances. The festival is all about community.
</li>
<li>
Check the schedule of metro and bus services, as some may be rerouted during
the festival. Walking and taxis are other good options.
</li>
</ul>
<p>
Immerse yourself in the celebrations to create unforgettable Festes de Gràcia
memories!
</p>
<h2>Celebrating Community</h2>
<p>
At its core, Festes de Gràcia is a celebration of community. In a city as
large and diverse as Barcelona, the bonds between neighbors that the festival
fosters are invaluable. The collaborative efforts involved in putting up
decorations, organizing activities, and volunteering create ties that
strengthen Gràcia's social fabric.
</p>
<p>
While the raucous revelry draws in visitors from across the world, the festes
remain committed to Catalan traditions and culture. No matter your background,
you'll be welcomed into Gràcia's community spirit during the festivities.
</p>
<p>
Festes de Gràcia demonstrates the heights that can be achieved when people
come together creatively for a common purpose. The awe-inspiring decorations,
stirring traditional dances, and shared pride of residents offer inspiration.
</p>
<p>
As the nights ring out with music and laughter, you'll leave with an
appreciation for community, culture, and connection. That is the true magic of
Festes de Gràcia, unchanged throughout two hundred years of celebrating what
makes this neighborhood great. </p><p>Needless to say that although visitors are more than welcomed, respect for local traditions must prevail. Basically, when in Rome, do as the Romans do. Or better said, don't do unto others...you know the rest. This also applies for more than a local or two.</p>
<h2>Summary</h2>
<ul>
<li>
Festes de Gràcia is an annual week-long festival held in mid-August in the
Gràcia neighborhood of Barcelona
</li>
<li>
Originating in 1817 as a religious feast day, it has evolved into a secular
celebration of Catalan culture and community
</li>
<li>
The highlights are the spectacular decorated streets designed around
creative themes by local resident associations
</li>
<li>
Traditional Catalan elements include sardana dancing, castellers human
towers, gegants (giant puppets), and correfocs (fire runs)
</li>
<li>
The festival features live music, parades, children's activities, and
abundant food and drink
</li>
<li>
While it draws tourists, the festes are organized by local volunteers to
bring the community together
</li>
<li>
The festive atmosphere celebrates Gràcia's unique local identity and
perpetuates Catalan traditions
</li>
<li>
Joining in the festivities allows you to connect with Gràcia's welcoming
spirit and appreciate Barcelona at its best
</li>
<li>
Festes de Gràcia is a one-of-a-kind expression of creativity, culture, and
community that encapsulates the soul of Catalonia</li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrorU76bKAaOms4IDe-D4pG520gcva-3pauH5YpyOZGVq217SK4XS6gGieCTN712n0IRb3unt50kRlcZHu_rnSSIHShZFi6PbEjnsmZVpiRcPUCNnIr9li3efQzh9z3--wjZqHXgkCw-m81qH9l2ohhsbnA62qBguyxsblrLutfCAfxFEgkMOeA/s1600/Pied%20Piper%20of%20Hamelin-at-Carrer-Verdi-del-Mig-Festes-Gracia-2023.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="Pied Piper of Hamelin at carrer Verdi del Mig - Festes de Gracia 2023" title="Pied piper of Hamelin at carrer Verdi del Mig during Festes de Gracia 2023" border="0" data-original-height="1220" data-original-width="900" height="868" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmrorU76bKAaOms4IDe-D4pG520gcva-3pauH5YpyOZGVq217SK4XS6gGieCTN712n0IRb3unt50kRlcZHu_rnSSIHShZFi6PbEjnsmZVpiRcPUCNnIr9li3efQzh9z3--wjZqHXgkCw-m81qH9l2ohhsbnA62qBguyxsblrLutfCAfxFEgkMOeA/s1600/Pied%20Piper%20of%20Hamelin-at-Carrer-Verdi-del-Mig-Festes-Gracia-2023.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comC/ de Verdi, Barcelona, Spain41.4078153 2.152946413.097581463821157 -33.0033036 69.718049136178848 37.3091964tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-10993457132060698922023-08-16T01:51:00.002+02:002023-08-16T01:58:31.423+02:00The 20 Best Places to Take Photos in Barcelona for Instagram<p>
Barcelona overflows with picture-perfect spots for travel photography. From Gaudí's surreal architecture to palm-lined beaches and lively boulevards, Barcelona offers countless visually stunning backdrops. Whether you're a pro toting a DSLR or an amateur snapping smartphone pics, you'll find awesome places in Barcelona to capture postcard-worthy shots. This guide covers the top 20 locations in Barcelona to ignite your social shares. With tips for snagging super shots, you'll be able to fill your Instagram with artistic Barcelona photos that will mesmerize your followers.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Sagrada Familia</h2>
<p>No trip to Barcelona is complete without visiting Antoni Gaudí’s magnificent Basilica of the Sagrada Familia, which is a photographer's paradise for Instagram. This awe-inspiring Gothic and Art Nouveau cathedral has soaring spires, intricate details, and colorful stained glass perfect for your Instagram feed. Climb high for a wide cityscape shot or get up close to capture the ornate Passion Façade. The never-ending construction and scaffolds add dynamic angles. Morning light illuminates the textures beautifully for Instagram. Snap photos from unique perspectives to stand out on Instagram. The Sagrada Familia is Barcelona's most iconic landmark and should be at the top of any travel photographer's Instagram bucket list.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Parc Güell</h2>
<p>Another whimsical Instagrammable masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí, Parc Güell makes for unforgettable photos. Winding pathways, colorful mosaics, and fairytale-like structures create a dreamy Instagram backdrop. Shoot the main terrace overlooking the city or wander the park to discover more photogenic gems like the Gaudí House Museum for your Instagram grid. Frame a selfie on the serpentine bench or against the Hansel and Gretel-style gingerbread gatehouses. Early morning or late afternoon golden hour is best for glowing light. Parc Güell captures Barcelona's magical architecture and is perfect for your Instagram feed.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Casa Milà (La Pedrera)</h2>
<p>This futuristic-looking apartment building designed by Gaudí is both bizarre and beautiful, making for excellent Instagram photos. The rippling stone facade and skeletal rooftop make dramatic subjects. Pose on the front steps or on the roof among the eerie chimneys resembling medieval warriors for Instagram. At night, Casa Milà is illuminated for a striking, science-fiction feel perfect for Instagram. Shoot upward for patterns against the sky or capture the surreal sculptural details up close. As one of Barcelona's most imaginative buildings, La Pedrera will add artistic flair to your Instagram gallery.</p><div>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Casa Batlló</h2>
<p>Gaudí's Casa Batlló dazzles with a facade covered in colorful mosaic tiles and wave-like window frames, creating eye-catching Instagram photos. The roofline resembles a dragon's back, complete with ridge spikes for scales. Capture the fluid forms and marine motifs from street level or get a rooftop view from the rear of the block for Instagram. Inside, snap the skeletal interior columns or light shaft. Photos of Casa Batlló's colorful artistry make great Instagram posts showing Barcelona's modernisme style.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Montjuïc and Magic Fountains</h2>
<p>Rising above the city, Montjuïc provides stunning elevated views of Barcelona's skyline perfect for Instagram. The hilltop Castillo de Montjuïc fortress has panoramic vistas and old cannon batteries to explore. Come at dusk for a majestic Instagram shot of the port and city below with a pink sky. At the Magic Fountain, capture the colorful lights artistically blurred with slow shutter speed for Instagram. Photos from Montjuïc showcase Barcelona's beauty from above.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Barri Gòtic</h2>
<p>Barcelona's atmospheric Gothic Quarter is another favorite spot for Instagrammable photography. Wander the medieval labyrinth of narrow cobblestone alleys lined with classic architecture. Photograph soaring 14th century cathedrals, hidden plazas and iron lanterns. For moody Instagram shots, capture the stone arches and shadows. The mix of old and new makes the Barri Gòtic endlessly inspiring. Share your gothic Barcelona photos and transport Instagram followers to the historic heart of the city.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>La Rambla</h2>
<p>Always buzzing with activity, Barcelona's famous La Rambla boulevard offers dramatic Instagrammable street photography. Catch a flamenco dancer in action or snap the living statues posing elegantly. Look for candy vendors in colorful costumes or street performers in inventive costumes. Shoot upward for architectural details on the elaborate buildings along the pedestrian street. Capture the energy and eclectic sights of La Rambla then share your images on Instagram.</p><div>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Plaça de Catalunya</h2>
<p>The expansive Plaça de Catalunya square provides a lively Instagrammable urban backdrop. People watch and capture daily local life: street musicians, pigeon feeders, children playing. Photograph friends sitting on the central fountain or statue base. The square links old and new Barcelona; shoot both the modern El Corte Inglés department store and older buildings like the Hotel Colón. The hustle and bustle of Plaça de Catalunya encapsulates the city's lively spirit for Instagram.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Arc de Triomf</h2>
<p>Barcelona's iconic Arc de Triomf brickwork archway makes a dramatic framing element for Instagram photos. Built for the 1888 World's Fair, this bold neo-Mudejar arch adds a pop of red against the cityscape. Photograph models or friends strolling through the arch or posing in front. For scale, include the whole arch in your Instagram shot. At night, the illuminated Arc de Triomf is perfect for a neon-lit urban snap. Share these monumental Barcelona photos with Instagram fans.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Parc de la Ciutadella</h2>
<p>This idyllic green space offers a serene natural contrast to the city for Instagram. Capture the towering palm trees, sparkling central fountain, and picturesque gazebos. Row across the lake for romantic Instagram photos on the water. Shoot friends relaxing on the grass or people commuting by bike through the park. Look for birds and other wildlife as photogenic subjects. Share your park snapshots to show the greener side of Barcelona on Instagram.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Parc del Laberint d'Horta</h2>
<p>Outside Barcelona, this magical 18th-century hedge maze park creates whimsical Instagrammable photos. Shoot the maze from above or send someone inside for adventure shots winding through the labyrinth. Other photogenic elements include the central pond, neoclassical statues, and stone temple ruins. The harmonious landscape allows striking nature photography for Instagram. For magical garden photos to enchant your feed, visit Parc del Laberint d’Horta.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Tibidabo</h2>
<p>Soaring above the city, Tibidabo Amusement Park provides beautiful panoramic views for Instagram photos. Shoot the ride-filled skyline or pose in front of the vintage Ferris wheel and quirky attractions. Watch the cable car ascend for dramatic overhead shots. At sunset, Tibidabo lights up for golden hour magic. Show off the whole of Barcelona from this elevated vantage point in your Instagram posts.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>La Boqueria Market</h2>
<p>Barcelona’s vibrant La Boqueria food market explodes with colorful Instagrammable photo opportunities. Capture the overflowing fruit and vegetable displays, shimmering seafood catches, and hanging hams. Photograph the busy market activity and characters like fruit vendors in the early morning. Close-ups of ingredients pop against the market backdrop. Foodies and travel photographers alike will delight in La Boqueria’s lively visual feast for Instagram.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Port and Passeig de Colom</h2>
<p>Along the pedestrian Passeig de Colom, snap Instagram photos of the sailboats and yachts moored in the marina. Look for reflections in the water. Shoot the famous Columbus Monument statue pointing out across the sea. Capture the star-shaped Barcelona Royal Shipyard buildings across the port. At sunrise or sunset, incorporate colorful skies for dramatic seaside Instagram photographs.</p>
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<span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Passeig de Colom and Moll de la Fusta in Barcelona" class="image" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qV_AIB8f2_8/WeEY-wimDxI/AAAAAAAAOV0/VrIsIU6kjEQRu1veMBt4TH26Ps_XxFGnwCLcBGAs/s1600/Moll-de-la-Fusta-Barcelona.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Palau de la Música Catalana</h2>
<p>This concert hall designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner is an ornate vision perfect for Instagram, with mosaic-tiled columns, stained glass skylights, and a gold sculpture-adorned facade. Photograph the exterior details then tour inside for brilliant Instagram photos of the grand auditorium capped by a stained-glass inverted dome. The kaleidoscopic colors and textures make Palau de la Música Catalana a unique Barcelona subject for your artsy Instagram shots.</p>
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<span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Pillars of Catalan Art Nouveau at Palau de la Musica by Domenech-i-Montaner" class="image" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oRFFY7p9qHM/WagzooqNRGI/AAAAAAAANuk/wkqQ3xPU0BoEJmn5B9VxSqyDqazh8_9AQCLcBGAs/s1600/Mosaic-Covered-Columns-or-Pillars-Palau-de-la-Musica-Catalana-Barcelona-Domenech-i-Montaner.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Monastery of Pedralbes</h2>
<p>This medieval Gothic convent surrounded by tranquil gardens creates ethereal Instagram photos away from the city hustle. Shoot the three-story cloister gallery and central fountain from different perspectives. Capture the arched walkways framed by vines and flowers. At night, photograph the dramatically lit architectural details. Share this serene spot with your Instagram feed for a moment of Barcelona calm.</p>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Hospital de Sant Pau</h2>
<p>Architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner designed this early 20th-century hospital complex filled with decorative buildings and gardens perfect for Instagram. Capture the colorful tiled pavilions, stained glass windows, and unique circular windows. Wander for unexpected angles like doorways and passageways. Photos from these whimsical grounds capture innovative modernisme style for Instagram.</p>
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<span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Modernist lamp at Hospital de Sant Pau modernist compound" class="image" src="https://photos1.blogger.com/hello/270/9970/1024/MODERN~3.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Rambla de Catalunya</h2>
<p>Lined with elegant architecture and chic shops, this upscale thoroughfare attracts Barcelona’s fashionable crowd for Instagrammable shots. Capture mod looks against the Art Nouveau and Art Deco building facades. Look up for intricate ironwork balconies and window frames to photograph. Tree-filled Canaletes square links to Rambla de Catalunya for added scenery. For stylish Instagram street photography, add this posh promenade to your feed.</p>
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<span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Main entrance of modernist building in Rambla Catalunya street, Barcelona" class="image" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eFQtxHn_42s/U9axnBQxQ2I/AAAAAAAAHjM/egRSXWZdX5A/s1600/Barcelona-Building-Main-Entrance-Rambla-Catalonia.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Plaça del Sol in Gràcia</h2>
<p>In the charming Gràcia district, this quaint plaza delivers Instagrammable snapshots of daily life. Young families gather at the playground, cyclists traverse the plaza, street musicians strum guitars. Capture the facades surrounding the plaza in geometric patterns interspersed with arches and ornate details. Shoot upward for architectural patterns framed by blue sky. Photos from this lively square spotlight authentic local Barcelona culture for Instagram.</p>
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<span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Modernist building in Plaza del Sol, Gracia quarter, Barcelona" class="image" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s_3eBZObIi8/XPxHyTMv9UI/AAAAAAAAQ9U/1wl5TBvUpAoAduVhsUmh_FkFaxt7YkNHgCLcBGAs/s1600/Modernist-building-Plaza-del-Sol-Gracia-Barcelona.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;"><h2>Old Harbor and Barceloneta</h2>
<p>Along the harbor at the foot of La Rambla, snap Instagram photos of the sail-shaped Columbus Monument against the deep blue Mediterranean Sea. Capture the iconic red and yellow sightseeing boat Golondrinas docked near the waterfront promenade. Shoot the Barceloneta neighborhood’s narrow 18th-century lanes lined with history homes and shops. Photos from the old harbor and seaside deliver classic nautical Barcelona vibes for Instagram.</p>
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<span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Las-Golondrinas-Sightseeing-boat by the customs building near Columbus monument and Las Ramblas" class="image" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FeKDgRSplu8/XPmlvZcfPbI/AAAAAAAAQ8Q/WEURBl39rFEhYUHMaZIkn7MFeVnlZOI3gCLcBGAs/s1600/Barcelona-Las-Golondrinas-Sightseeing-boat.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span>
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</ol>
<p>With stunning architecture, lively neighborhoods, markets, and coastal scenery, Barcelona offers endless inspiration for travel photography. Use this guide to capture artistic and distinctive photos at the top Instagrammable spots in Barcelona. For more tips, check out these top Barcelona Instagrammers:</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/xopet1969/" target="_blank">@xopet1969</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/thebarcelonist/" target="_blank">@thebarcelonist</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/barcelonacitizen/" target="_blank">@barcelonacitizen</a></li> </ul> <p>Whether you use your smartphone or DSLR camera, Barcelona provides picture-perfect settings for unique images to share on Instagram and remember your travels.</p>
<p><br /></p>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-22482714765613940582023-08-08T02:28:00.004+02:002023-08-08T02:37:01.969+02:00Step Back in Time at Barcelona's Historic Hotel El Palace<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7iKXvTlZTW04CqKjq1Ww0DCLn3W1Zx2F2no6-gYrxi0vnkIzX8potRjJwWL9crfXE49jDby-uUrMha2T5LkcDBLpk5gx-sOgKJ1K8trcEXKE9sJMRZlDhRJGeD0nb7BWmD8nzwBOpT80agOFslRu319IFbx7DCDC7ZPwIxW0t6rGLzd6q9aH2A/s1600/Entrance-to-El-Palace-Hotel-in-Barcelona-aka-the-old-Hotel-Ritz-.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="Entrance-to-El-Palace-Hotel-in-Barcelona-aka-the-old-Hotel-Ritz" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgP7iKXvTlZTW04CqKjq1Ww0DCLn3W1Zx2F2no6-gYrxi0vnkIzX8potRjJwWL9crfXE49jDby-uUrMha2T5LkcDBLpk5gx-sOgKJ1K8trcEXKE9sJMRZlDhRJGeD0nb7BWmD8nzwBOpT80agOFslRu319IFbx7DCDC7ZPwIxW0t6rGLzd6q9aH2A/s16000/Entrance-to-El-Palace-Hotel-in-Barcelona-aka-the-old-Hotel-Ritz-.jpg" title="Hotel El Palace Barcelona Dressed for Christmas" /></a></div>
<h1 >
Step into the Gilded Age of Travel at Barcelona's Hotel El Palace
</h1>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Tucked away on a tree-lined boulevard in the heart of Barcelona lies a
timeless grande dame that transports guests back to the glamorous era of early
20th century travel. Hotel El Palace Barcelona, originally opened in 1919 as
an outpost of César Ritz's famed luxury hotel chain, oozes old world charm and
elegance. From its ornate façade guarded by liveried doormen to the antique
furnishings within, El Palace brings to life a bygone time when travel was
still an exclusive pursuit of royalty and the cultural elite.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">The Remarkable Rise of César Ritz</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The storied history of El Palace Barcelona begins with legendary hotelier
César Ritz, the pioneering founder of the international Ritz brand. Born in
1850 in the small Swiss village of Niederwald, Ritz was the thirteenth child
in a family of farmers. His mother noticed young César’s intellect and
insisted he receive an education, sending him to a Jesuit boarding school.
There he learned German, French, and English—skills that would prove
invaluable.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
At 15, Ritz became an apprentice waiter at a hotel in Brig, Switzerland. But
he was dismissed after a few months, deemed to lack faculties for hospitality.
After a period of uncertainty, ambitious Ritz left for Paris in 1867 to seek
his fortune. The bustling city was hosting the Universal Exposition, creating
many hospitality jobs. Though starting as a waiter apprentice again, Ritz
quickly moved up, honing his skills at top restaurants like Voisin.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Ritz exhibited exceptional talent for remembering guests’ names and
preferences. His amiable personality also attracted important contacts like
the Prince of Wales. But Ritz’s budding career was interrupted by the 1870
Franco-Prussian War. When Voisin closed due to scarce supplies, Ritz returned
to Switzerland. In 1873 he went to Vienna for another Universal Exposition and
met European royalty while working at a fine restaurant there.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
For the next decade, Ritz spent winters serving elite clientele on the French
Riviera and summers in the Swiss Alps. In 1889, the Savoy Hotel in London
recruited Ritz and chef Auguste Escoffier to manage their new luxury property.
During his decade at the Savoy, Ritz pioneered innovations like in-room
bathrooms and introduced standards of service and cuisine never before seen in
hotels.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
But Ritz dreamed of launching his own luxury hotel. In 1898, he opened the
esteemed Hôtel Ritz Paris. Its elegantly appointed rooms and refined dining
attracted royalty, business magnates, and creatives. The terms “ritzy” and
“puttin’ on the Ritz” stem from this gilded era.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
After conquering Paris, London and Madrid, Ritz, who at the beginning was
reluctant to build in Barcelona, was advised by Francesc Cambó, a local
politician and intellectual, on the need of building yet another magnificent
first-class hotel, this time in Barcelona considering pending events like the
1929 Barcelona International Exposition. No expense was spared to create Ritz's
vision of a palatial urban oasis. When Hotel Ritz Barcelona opened in 1919, it
immediately became the city's premier luxury destination.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Although Ritz managed to expand his holdings
globally he finally had to pass his empire to his heirs and retire to Switzerland
due to declining health. When he died in 1918, César Ritz was remembered as
the founder of modern luxury hospitality.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">A Storied Past Through War and Peace</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
In its early years, El Palace cemented its status as the place to see and be
seen in Barcelona. Well-heeled travelers arriving on luxurious cruise ships
docked nearby eagerly made their way to the hotel's elegant spaces. Over the
decades, famous guests have ranged from Spanish royalty like King Alfonso XIII
to luminaries like Ernest Hemingway and Salvador Dalí.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The sprawling Ritz also became a cultural hub for Barcelona's high society. In
the 1920s, its ballrooms hosted splendid masquerade galas, concert
performances and art shows that attracted the city's creatives and socialites.
The hotel's bar served as a lively spot where intellectual figures like
Federico García Lorca and José Ortega y Gasset convened for cultural lectures,
organized by the prominent women Isabel Llorach and Francesc Cambó.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
But after the boom of the 1920s, troubling times loomed with the Spanish Civil
War's outbreak in 1936. During the conflict, El Palace became a refuge for
prominent families seeking shelter. Despite the war's chaos, the hotel
maintained an aura of civility and calm. The tireless staff provided any
comfort or service required, even sleeping onsite overnight when commuting was
dangerous.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
When war erupted, the hotel transformed into a worker-run cafeteria under the
CNT and UGT unions, providing vital meals for Barcelona's hungry population.
After the war, the grande dame emerged physically unscathed. But isolation
under Franco's regime affected its glittering clientele. However, the hotel
continued operating with world-class service and dignity.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEGEgIOrcvkW5VWEqyrS1ZAlT4AwSyzxotkLdV0ckPLFsVuk-zkPMhdgJLzj5wMKNVa9FqX9BwyH0rKFzB9ZRDOwQRCi_ClU-I4Oe86NaYS2h07Dk88RIUG32aeisbrUxdNINIUDkcbe2tcwmsyhrZBLqQ2r9EjYaV1Io3xZtiPB9CBVBzBUThBw/s1600/Entrance%20Hotel%20El%20Palace%201919%20Old%20Ritz.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="Entrance Hotel El Palace 1919 Old Ritz" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEGEgIOrcvkW5VWEqyrS1ZAlT4AwSyzxotkLdV0ckPLFsVuk-zkPMhdgJLzj5wMKNVa9FqX9BwyH0rKFzB9ZRDOwQRCi_ClU-I4Oe86NaYS2h07Dk88RIUG32aeisbrUxdNINIUDkcbe2tcwmsyhrZBLqQ2r9EjYaV1Io3xZtiPB9CBVBzBUThBw/s16000/Entrance%20Hotel%20El%20Palace%201919%20Old%20Ritz.jpg" title="Entrance to Hotel El Palace built in 1919 (Old Ritz)" /></a></div>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">The Grande Dame Regains Her Luster</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
By the 1950s, Barcelona had begun opening up to the world again. With major
events at the city's expo grounds, El Palace found itself welcoming
international guests once more. A renaissance during the 1960s-70s won the
hotel global acclaim and designation as a Leading Hotel of the World for its
refined amenities.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
In 2019, extensive renovations prepared El Palace for its next 100 years by
sensitively restoring original details while incorporating modern comforts and
conveniences. From its elegant facade to the restored interior design, the
hotel brings Barcelona's gilded early 20th century era back to life. The César
Ritz spirit continues through the staff's genuinely warm hospitality.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Famous Guests Over the Decades</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
El Palace’s premier location and accommodations have attracted many celebrity
guests. Salvador Dalí repeatedly stayed in his favorite luxury suite during
sojourns in Catalonia, once famously bringing up a taxidermy horse as a gift
for his wife Gala, to the astonishment of hotel staff.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Retired bandleader Xavier Cugat, who popularized mambo music in 1940s
Hollywood, spent his later years living at El Palace, filling its ballrooms
with lively tunes in the 1970s and 80s. In 1987, Freddie Mercury met opera
singer Montserrat Caballé at the hotel's bar, catalyzing their creative
collaboration on the song "Barcelona" for the 1992 Olympic Games.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Many other luminaries have repeatedly made El Palace their home away from home
when visiting Barcelona over the decades, including a diverse array of Hollywood
actors, opera singers, rock stars, bullfighters, famous painters, directors,
fashion designers, irreplaceable writers, distinguished members of high society
from nobility to heads of state, from illustrious politicians to Arab sheiks,
from Masons to Nazis, from Republicans to Franco's troops. The list is so
extensive that it makes no sense trying to include them all here.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
To celebrate the hotel's 2019 centennial, El Palace unveiled a photo
exhibition with images of its glamorous past events and famous faces. The
hotel's prestigious history and restored elegant spaces continue to transport
guests back to Barcelona's golden era of luxury travel today.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Barcelona's Leading Luxury Destination Through the Years
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
In many ways, the history of El Palace mirrors that of Barcelona itself. The
hotel was the city's premier luxury destination from the moment its doors
opened in 1919, attracting affluent travelers and hosting high society events.
In the carefree 1920s, its ballrooms and restaurants were the epicenter of
Barcelona's buzzing cultural scene. El Palace was witness to pivotal historic
moments like the 1929 World's Fair and the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
During the economically depressed postwar years, the hotel weathered
challenges but continued as an oasis of refinement. By the 1960s, a rebirth of
Barcelona's cosmopolitan spirit coincided with El Palace's renewed golden era.
The city became an international travel hotspot once again, and the hotel its
glittering social hub. The 1992 Summer Olympics spotlighted Barcelona on the
world stage, drawing renewed interest in its Belle Epoque splendor.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Today, extensive restoration work ensures El Palace remains Barcelona's most
illustrious luxury hotel. Its timeless elegance comes alive in the ornate
facade, the crystal chandeliers glittering in palatial event spaces, the
frescoed ceilings and marble floors.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
For over a century, Hotel El Palace Barcelona has maintained its stature as
the crown jewel of Catalan hospitality. It continues César Ritz's legacy as
the pinnacle of discreet luxury experiences, attracting discerning travelers
today as it did Barcelona's elite in its 1920s heyday. A fascinating living
link to the city's past remains vibrantly alive within El Palace's historic
walls.
</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-7gzvVwfCJuL3K3mUpV_ht1so0I1-Vuh0DMGjFIUQ5KJpb5EAD5JT2-7QsH4-s6aZvOje6Fq8RDeX4vehlCsSwDsodKfhuS2fzOQjHflNrxP_G4Fg5kszTVfN65PSTK7KgIgpsLdRcg6nsMo434JtZY8vUGXfrE2kpiMBijWORQZwb_IbIyEvQ/s1600/Restaurant-AMAR-by-Rafa-Zafra-michelin-star-at-Hotel-El-Palace-Barcelona-old%20Ritz.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="Restaurant-AMAR-by-Rafa-Zafra-michelin-star-at-Hotel-El-Palace-Barcelona-old Ritz" border="0" data-original-height="853" data-original-width="640" height="853" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE-7gzvVwfCJuL3K3mUpV_ht1so0I1-Vuh0DMGjFIUQ5KJpb5EAD5JT2-7QsH4-s6aZvOje6Fq8RDeX4vehlCsSwDsodKfhuS2fzOQjHflNrxP_G4Fg5kszTVfN65PSTK7KgIgpsLdRcg6nsMo434JtZY8vUGXfrE2kpiMBijWORQZwb_IbIyEvQ/s1600/Restaurant-AMAR-by-Rafa-Zafra-michelin-star-at-Hotel-El-Palace-Barcelona-old%20Ritz.jpg" title="Restaurant AMAR by Rafa Zafra - michelin star at Hotel El Palace Barcelona - old Ritz" width="640" /></a></div>
Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-25613488393804090982023-07-30T21:08:00.011+02:002023-08-08T20:56:38.214+02:00The Essential Guide to Taking Travel Photos in Barcelona<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWeGo7Yo0l88A8aKT6macQEacpM3hsQIKkOI2pHPCdnNNe2hBY_0BjdIWNQ6t3plyQ541HGjOPnhYkwTu2GjQ8I2nt3bduGStZhaKp3T3Acgk7pitgbXdl1P9eu0_ZWIyinCZtBnz8_sXw_t0ojIJ6fn1Dv6CdVlPiV2lq8zgdhLl_cf_ByR538A/s1024/Moll%20de%20la%20Fusta%20Harbor%20Couples.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Harbor couples at Moll de la Fusta, Barcelona, Spain - street photo by Carlos Lorenzo" border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="1024" height="424" loading="eager" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWeGo7Yo0l88A8aKT6macQEacpM3hsQIKkOI2pHPCdnNNe2hBY_0BjdIWNQ6t3plyQ541HGjOPnhYkwTu2GjQ8I2nt3bduGStZhaKp3T3Acgk7pitgbXdl1P9eu0_ZWIyinCZtBnz8_sXw_t0ojIJ6fn1Dv6CdVlPiV2lq8zgdhLl_cf_ByR538A/s16000/Moll%20de%20la%20Fusta%20Harbor%20Couples.jpg" title="Harbor couples at Moll de la Fusta, Barcelona, Spain - street photo by Carlos Lorenzo" width="640" /></a>
</div>
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">Barcelona is one of the most photogenic cities in Europe with staggering Gothic architecture, vibrant street life, brightly-colored markets, and alluring Mediterranean light. Taking unique travel photos in Barcelona with preparation and photographic knowledge can elevate your images to the next level. Given the abundance of scenic spots in the city, capturing incredible photos may seem effortless. However, it took me years to train my eye and gain expertise that can help save you time and energy in your photography journey.</span></div>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover insider tips from pro photographers
to help elevate your skills for taking travel photos in Barcelona.
</span></p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Planning Your Barcelona Photo Shoot Locations
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The key to a successful Barcelona photo trip starts with planning where and
when to shoot:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">1. Look Up Photogenic Landmarks</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Research Barcelona’s main
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2017/09/10-best-modernist-architectural-buildings-in-Barcelona.html" target="_blank">architectural and landmark photography spots</a>
like La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and the Gothic Quarter. Studying images of
these locations will spark ideas and reveal the best angles.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Dig Into Neighborhood Gems</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Look beyond the main tourist sites to
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2023/06/best-barcelona-neighborhoods-and-areas-to-stay.html" target="_blank">Barcelona's unique neighborhoods</a>. Areas like Gràcia, Born and Poblenou have small curated plazas, street art
and shops that tell the local story.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">3. Study Lighting Conditions</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Consider the changing daylight and colors in Barcelona across seasons and
times of day. Early morning and late afternoon often have the most dramatic
light.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">4. Account for Weather and Events</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Plan for how weather and events may alter your locations. A rainy day in Park
Güell will have a very different vibe from a sunny one. Festivals like La
Mercè also offer unique photo ops.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">5. Mix Famous Sites with Local Life</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Blend major landmarks with local culture by exploring offbeat areas like the
Raval neighborhood. This allows capturing a true Barcelona experience.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
By scouting locations thoughtfully, you’ll discover amazing photography spots
away from the crowds.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Packing the Essential Photography Gear</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Carrying lightweight photography gear while traveling is key:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">1. DSLR or Mirrorless Camera</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
A
<a href="https://digital-photography-school.com/best-camera-for-travel-photography/" target="_blank">DSLR or mirrorless camera</a>
allows full creative control and interchangeable lenses for quality images.
Consider weather sealing if shooting outdoors extensively.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Wide Angle and Zoom Lenses</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Pack a wide angle like 18-35mm to capture expansive city scenes along with a
70-200mm zoom to isolate architectural details.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">3. Tripod or Monopod</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
A
<a href="https://www.digitalcameraworld.com/features/monopod-vs-tripod-which-is-better" target="_blank">tripod or monopod</a>
keeps cameras steady, especially for low light shots. Look for a lightweight,
collapsible option.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">4. Remote Shutter Release</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
To avoid blurry shots, a remote shutter release allows triggering the camera
without touching it. Essential for long exposures.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">5. Spare Batteries and Storage Cards</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Carry extra charged batteries and high capacity memory cards to shoot all day
without worrying about missing a shot.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The right minimalist kit tailored to your style will let you travel light
while having full shooting flexibility.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Tips for Photographing Top Barcelona Landmarks
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Barcelona’s iconic landmarks from La Sagrada Familia to Casa Milà demand
unique photographic approaches to capture their grandeur:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
1. Shoot La Sagrada Familia Exteriors at Golden Hour
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The dizzying
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/01/sagrada-familia-carrying-cross.html" target="_blank">exterior of the UNESCO-listed basilica</a> comes alive during the warm light at sunrise or sunset. Capture its
texture from multiple angles.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Compose Wide Shots of Park Güell</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Use a wide lens to emphasize the sprawling scale of Park Güell’s architecture
along with the city views beyond. Position yourself on higher ground like the
viaduct.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">3. Photograph Casa Milà’s Organic Shapes</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Highlights of the Gaudí masterpiece include the
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/09/la-pedrera-or-casa-mila-by-gaudi.html" target="_blank">rippling stone facade</a>
and mushroom-esque chimneys. Move around for abstract geometric compositions.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
4. Seek Reflections Along Montjuïc Magic Fountain
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/10/montjuic-fountains-magic-show.html" target="_blank">Magic Fountain's water acrobatics</a>
provide fantastic reflections with Barcelona as a backdrop. Use slow shutter
speeds to capture motion.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Each iconic site has sweet spots for composition and lighting. Visualize your
desired photos before visiting to maximize your time there.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Getting Creative With Barcelona Architecture and Street Photography
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Beyond the main sights, Barcelona’s streets are filled with captivating
photographic possibilities:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
1. Photograph La Rambla Eclectic Street Life
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Capture a mix of street performers, flower stalls and architectural details
along the storied
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/search?q=las+ramblas" target="_blank">La Rambla promenade</a>. Convey both bustle and beauty.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
2. Compose Surreal Architecture in Park Güell
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The curving architecture along with colorful mosaics make for striking photos.
Convert to black and white or boost color saturation to add an otherworldly
effect.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">3. Capture Quirky Barcelona Street Art</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Barcelona’s
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2006/09/barcelona-street-artist-living-statue.html" target="_blank">street art scene</a> provides endless opportunities for
<a href="https://flic.kr/s/aGF1NTmiZQ" target="_blank">eye-catching photographs</a>. Capture wall murals in full along with details.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
4. Frame Intriguing Street Photography Moments
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Keep your eyes open for candid moments like an abuelita hanging laundry or
children playing soccer. Capture authentic local life.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Look for unique ways to portray familiar Barcelona scenes. Push your
creativity by playing with lighting, angles, colors and composition.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Essential Techniques for Better Barcelona Travel Photos
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Equipped with versatile photography skills, you can transform Barcelona’s
sights into spectacular images:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">1. Master Exposure and Focus</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Learn exposure triangle fundamentals of aperture, shutter speed and ISO and
techniques like bracketing to
<a href="https://www.photopills.com/articles/exposure-photography-guide" target="_blank">optimize exposure</a>. Use hyperfocal distance and manual focus for tack sharp architecture shots.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Shoot During Golden Hour</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The soft, warm light around sunrise and sunset flatters almost any subject.
Time your sessions around
<a href="https://www.picturecorrect.com/6-photography-tricks-during-the-magic-hour/" target="_blank">golden hour</a> for magical photos in Barcelona.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">3. Utilize Leading Lines and Symmetry</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Incorporate leading lines via roads or railings to draw the eye into images.
Seek interesting symmetry among architectural patterns.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">4. Learn Post-Processing Essentials</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Post-processing allows polished images from improving tone, contrast and
sharpness to
<a href="https://digital-photography-school.com/tips-cropping-better-composition/" target="_blank">cropping for better composition</a>. Invest time into honing editing skills.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Elevate your images from tourist snaps to gallery-worthy shots with these
essential photography skills.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Finding Inspiring Locations Off the Beaten Path
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Venturing beyond Barcelona's core sights reveals underrated neighborhoods with
stories to tell:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">1. Discover Hidden Plaça del Sol</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
This
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2010/05/sitting-on-plaza-del-sol-barri-de.html" target="_blank">overlooked square within Gràcia</a>
exudes vintage charm with its central fountain and surrounding cafés. A hidden
gem.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Marvel at Castellers Human Towers</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://www.barcelonayellow.com/bcn/catalan-culture/catalan-traditions/castellers" target="_blank">Castellers</a> practice awe-inspiring human towers on weekends in local plazas. A
unique Barcelona tradition.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">3. Wander Through Former Factory Poblenou</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Once an industrial hub,
<a href="https://www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/living/community/poblenou-barcelona-arts-and-tech-hub/" target="_blank">Poblenou</a> is now filled with street art-adorned abandoned factories mixed among
new developments.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
4. Find Whimsical Pieces at Gaudi House Museum
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Located in
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/07/gaudi-museum-in-park-guell-barcelona.html" target="_blank">Park Güell</a>, this museum provides a peek into the quirky interior designs of the famous
architect.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Getting lost in charming local neighborhoods invariably leads to serendipitous
photo ops away from main tourist zones.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Time of Day and Seasons for Great Barcelona Photos
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Barcelona’s appearance transforms based on time of day and seasonal changes:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
1. Capture Cool Tones on an Overcast Winter Day
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The soft diffuse light on a cloudy day is perfect for evenly lit architectural
shots. Post-process for moody, monochromatic streetscapes.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
2. Photograph La Mercè Festival Street Performers
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The festive September celebration fills the streets with
<a href="https://www.barcelona.cat/culturapopular/en/festivals-and-traditions/festes-de-la-merce" target="_blank">musicians and creatives</a>. Capture the electric energy.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
3. Shoot at Golden Hours in Spring and Fall
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The most comfortable seasons in Barcelona also offer ideal
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2006/03/plaza-real-shadows-of-barcelona.html" target="_blank">golden hour light</a> to photograph plazas and parks.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">4. Seek Out Summer Street Life</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Locals flock to Barcelona beaches during summer. Photograph the lively scene
along the seaside
<a href="https://www.cntraveler.com/activities/barcelona/barceloneta" target="_blank">Barceloneta neighborhood</a>.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Embrace Barcelona's unique ambiance during different seasons and times of day.
Let the quality of light guide your photography outings.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Composing Better Travel Photos in Barcelona
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Applying photographic principles immediately levels up your Barcelona
pictures:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">1. Frame Your Subject</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Use archways, doors or foliage to frame your main subject in a contextual,
eye-catching way. The resulting image tells a richer story.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Follow the Rule of Thirds</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Position key elements near
<a href="https://www.picturecorrect.com/rule-of-thirds/" target="_blank">one of the intersection points</a> of the thirds grid rather than center-framing. This creates an
engaging, balanced composition.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">3. Shoot from Creative Vantage Points</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Vary your perspective by
<a href="https://expertphotography.com/vantage-point/" target="_blank">shooting from below, above, far away or other unconventional angles</a>. Explore all possibilities.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">4. Use Leading Lines to Draw Viewers In</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Incorporate diagonal or curved lines via buildings, tracks, fences or stairs
to direct the viewer's gaze into the frame.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Applying compositional techniques transforms snapshots into thoughtful,
artistic Barcelona images.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Editing for Impactful Barcelona Travel Photos
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Post-processing brings out the essence of your Barcelona images through
targeted adjustments:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
1. Enhance Architecture Details with Radial Filters
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Use adjustment gradients to selectively brighten, darken or alter color in key
areas like making façade details pop.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Boost Vibrancy Without Overdoing It</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://fstoppers.com/lightroom/10-ways-make-colors-pop-lightroom-576952" target="_blank">Lift muted tones</a>, especially in landscaping, using HSL tools. But avoid oversaturated colors
that look artificial.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
3. Reduce Noise and Sharpen for Print Worthiness
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://www.photographyacademy.com/tips-for-reducing-noise-without-ruining-your-photos">Eliminate noise and grain while sharpening selectively</a> to achieve clean, crisp images worthy of large gallery prints.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">4. Crop for Stronger Composition</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Trim excess elements via cropping to lead the eye towards key subjects and
achieve more cohesive framing.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Elegant editing enhances mood, focus and visual impact. Handle edits with care
to maintain authenticity.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Packing Light Photography Gear for Barcelona Travel
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
For mobility while sightseeing, minimalist photography gear is a must:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">1. Mirrorless Camera with Pancake Lens</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
A compact mirrorless body paired with a tiny pancake prime lens provides
powerful quality in a small package.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Single Lightweight Zoom Lens</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
An all-in-one zoom like a 24-70mm allows flexible framing from wide angles to
portraits without swapping lenses.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">3. Small Camera Bag or Pouch</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Keep just essentials like camera, lens, spare battery and memory card in a
compact bag for light trekking.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">4. Smartphone Camera with Lens Add-On</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Consider using just your phone camera with supplemental lenses like moment
lenses for ultra-portability.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">5. Monopod Instead of Tripod</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
A lightweight monopod steadies your camera and packs down small when space is
tight.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Pick gear that lets you react quickly to photographic opportunities without
weighing you down.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Finding the Essence of Barcelona</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Aim to capture photos that reflect the true spirit of Barcelona beyond the
landmarks:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
1. Convey Local Lifestyle Through Street Life
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Photograph everyday neighborhood moments that tell an authentic story like
children playing soccer or old men debating.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Focus on Interesting Small Details</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Zoom in on elements like intricately tiled steps, hanging flower pots or
street mosaic tiles that reveal local culture.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">3. Highlight Festivity</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Capture Barcelona’s vibrant events and festivals like Castellers, La Mercè and
the summer solstice Correfoc with motion and energy.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">4. Show Barcelona’s Creative Spirit</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
See Barcelona through an artistic lens via architecture details, quirky
sculptures and colorful street art.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Seek out photos that connect you to the city’s culture, people and unique
aesthetic.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Choosing Where to Stay for Easy Barcelona Photography
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Base yourself centrally in neighborhoods that offer great access to
Barcelona's photographic hot spots:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
1. Stay in Barri Gòtic to Walk to Top Sights
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
This central district puts you steps from the cathedral, Picasso museum and
atmospheric alleys perfect for photography wanders.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
2. Stay in L'Eixample for Modernism Masterpieces
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Situated in L'Eixample, you can easily photograph
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2020/10/casa-batllo-visionary-project-by-gaudi.html" target="_blank">modernism architecture</a> like La Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
3. Stay in Gràcia for Charming Plazas and Street Art
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
This microcosm of Barcelona offers photogenic local flavor among
<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2013/01/astrolabe-sculpture-placa-del-sol-barri.html" target="_blank">vintage squares</a> and captivating street art .
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">4. Stay Near Barceloneta for Seaside Vibes</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Photograph historic seaside relaxation along with colorful beach huts in this
old port neighborhood.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Base yourself in neighborhoods with easy walking access to Barcelona's most
photogenic spots for memorable images.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Avoiding Cliché Barcelona Travel Photos</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Create one-of-a-kind Barcelona images by avoiding overdone compositions:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
1. Don’t Shoot La Sagrada Familia Straight On
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Instead, get closeups of architectural details or shoot from uncommon angles
like from across the road.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Avoid Closeups of Park Güell Mosaics</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Capture the mosaics in wider environmental shots rather than tight macro shots
to add context.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
3. Don't Just Shoot Barceloneta Beach Parasols
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Expand beyond the row of iconic beach huts to show vibrant beach culture
through people, activities and landscapes.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
4. Skip Generic City Skyline Shots from High Vantage Points
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Photograph Barcelona’s architecture from street level or interior plazas for
an immersive perspective.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Getting creative with framing, timing and context ensures your images offer a
fresh perspective beyond postcard-style shots.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Safety Tips for Barcelona Photography & Sightseeing
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
When photographing Barcelona, remain situationally aware as you would in any
major city:
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
1. Keep Valuables out of Sight When Not Shooting
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Avoid flaunting expensive photography gear when walking between locations.
Only bring out gear when actively shooting.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">2. Be Wary of Pickpockets in Tourist Zones</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Areas with crowds like La Rambla require extra vigilance. Keep valuables
secure and be cautious of diversion tactics.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">3. Consider a Crossbody Camera Strap</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Crossbody camera straps deter thieves and keep your hands free. Use one when
navigating busy tourist spots.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">
4. Familiarize Yourself with City Safety Tips
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Review
<a href="https://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com/en/general/safety/barcelona-safety.html" target="_blank">Barcelona city safety recommendations</a> like standing near others and limiting use of phones.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">5. Photograph Responsibly</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Don’t trespass or damage property. Be respectful when photographing people,
especially children.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Remaining alert allows focusing on great photos without safety concerns.
</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">
Mastering the Art of Travel Photography in Barcelona
</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Barcelona’s striking architecture, captivating culture and idyllic
Mediterranean light provide endless inspiration for brilliant travel
photographs. By pre-planning locations, packing smart gear, honing techniques
and exploring creatively, you’ll return home with stunning images that do
justice to this vibrant city.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
For more tips on capturing Barcelona's beauty with a travel and street
photographer's perspective, do not miss Barcelona Photoblog’s previous work.
Our acclaimed photography and blogging experience help visitors craft
unforgettable Barcelona images.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Barcelona’s welcoming spirit makes it a delight to photograph. Wandering with
open eyes, creative spirit and photographic skills, you’ll uncover amazing
image opportunities around every corner. This guide equips you with everything
needed to make the most of your Barcelona travels and bring home cherished
pictures.
</p>
Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-31709144056056042272023-07-24T01:11:00.007+02:002023-07-28T00:25:18.484+02:00Exploring the Rich History of FC Barcelona at Camp Nou Museum<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB9t_7eBLjQEs443JG86XkOXqc_dhSG3mfv7c5fekJFb3vTnJT1_nbH16PCWMc2B4UI3fsR_RbPEfAvY699LZZoxci4Ouj5EnX6jMcHT65TtAtTCarrChtd9Ml40wq76OR4d0VJAHjFcSa2g8OD3rtPj94vdgj5vbiMwdy7xKCr33imShPOF1oCw/s1600/nick-fewings-eJdbA8g6zlQ-unsplash.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="3168" data-original-width="4752" height="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB9t_7eBLjQEs443JG86XkOXqc_dhSG3mfv7c5fekJFb3vTnJT1_nbH16PCWMc2B4UI3fsR_RbPEfAvY699LZZoxci4Ouj5EnX6jMcHT65TtAtTCarrChtd9Ml40wq76OR4d0VJAHjFcSa2g8OD3rtPj94vdgj5vbiMwdy7xKCr33imShPOF1oCw/s1600/nick-fewings-eJdbA8g6zlQ-unsplash.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: right;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span>Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@jannerboy62?utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText">Nick Fewings</a> on </span><a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/camp-nou-museum?license=free&utm_source=unsplash&utm_medium=referral&utm_content=creditCopyText"><span>Unsplas</span>h</a></span></div><p style="text-align: justify;">FC Barcelona is one of the most renowned and successful football clubs in the world. With a glorious history stretching over 120 years, FC Barcelona has become synonymous with excellence in football. The club's museum at the epic Camp Nou stadium provides a fascinating glimpse into Barça's storied past through exhibits, trophies and multimedia displays.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Origins of FC Barcelona</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">FC Barcelona was founded on November 29, 1899 by a group of twelve enthusiasts led by Joan Gamper. Gamper, a Swiss football player, placed an advertisement in Los Deportes newspaper calling for interest in forming a football club. This led to the first meeting at Gimnasio Sola in Barcelona, where the club was officially established. The club was named Foot-Ball Club Barcelona after Charles Lindley’s Foot-Ball Club.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">In the early years, FC Barcelona played at various venues around the city until moving to Les Corts stadium in 1922. The club’s ties to Catalan identity were established early on when it became a member of the Catalan Football Federation in 1900. The club’s motto “Més que un club” (“More than a club”) embodies its deeper meaning as a symbol of Catalan culture.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">The Golden Era of the 1950s</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The 1950s marked FC Barcelona's first golden era under coach Ferdinand Daučík and president Enric Martí Carreto. With legendary players like László Kubala, Estanislau Basora, Cesar Rodriguez and Antonio Ramallets, Barça dominated Spanish football securing five La Liga titles, five Copa del Reys and two Latin Cups.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Kubala, regarded as one of Barça's greatest players, made his debut in 1952 and went on to score 280 goals in 345 matches during his 11 seasons at the club. This hugely successful team called the “Five Cups team” cemented FC Barcelona's place in football history. Their free-flowing, attacking style of play made them pioneers of the now famous “tiki-taka” passing game.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Cruyff Revolution of the 1970s</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The 1970s saw the arrival of Dutch football legend Johan Cruyff as a player at FC Barcelona, who later also managed the so-called “Dream Team” as coach. Cruyff won the Ballon d'Or in his first season with the club and implemented his total football philosophy.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As manager starting 1988, Cruyff mentored players like Pep Guardiola, José Mari Bakero and Hristo Stoichkov. Under his leadership, Barça won eleven trophies in eight years including four straight La Liga titles and the club's first Champions League trophy in 1992. Cruyff's positional game and pressing system laid the foundations of Barça's future success.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Rise to European Dominance</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The late 1990s and 2000s were an era of European dominance for FC Barcelona led by legends like Rivaldo, Ronaldo de Lima, Ronaldinho, and manager Pep Guardiola. This Barça team is regarded as one of the greatest in history with their entertaining style and coordinated pressure called “tiki-taka”.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">FC Barcelona won two Champions League titles in 2006 and 2009, the latter as part of the unprecedented sextuple under Guardiola. Lionel Messi debuted in 2004 and went on to break records as FC Barcelona’s all-time top scorer, cementing his status as one of the game's greatest players. Other icons like Andrés Iniesta, Xavi Hernández and Carles Puyol were crucial parts of this legendary team.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">La Masia Talent Factory</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">A key aspect of FC Barcelona's sustained success has been its prolific youth academy La Masia, which has nurtured generations of top players. Legends like Messi, Iniesta, Xavi, Guardiola, Carles Puyol and Gerard Piqué graduated from La Masia to FC Barcelona's first team.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The academy instills Barça's philosophy focused on technical skills, teamwork and possession-based football in its recruits from a young age. La Masia has played a monumental role in supplying exceptional homegrown players to maintain the club's high performance standards. Graduates have also spread Barça's playing ideology while succeeding at top clubs worldwide.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Record-Breaking Club Honors</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">With its consistent excellence over more than a century, FC Barcelona has amassed a vast collection of historic honours at home and across Europe:</p>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">5 UEFA Champions League titles</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">27 La Liga titles, a joint record with Real Madrid</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">31 Copa del Rey trophies, a record</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">5 UEFA Super Cups</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">3 Inter-Cities Fairs Cups</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">3 FIFA Club World Cups</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Barça legends like Lionel Messi, Andrés Iniesta and Carles Puyol were crucial parts of the club's golden era from 2008-2012 when they won 14 titles in just 4 years under Pep Guardiola. FC Barcelona's commitment to beautiful, winning football makes it one of the most decorated clubs in football.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Famous Victories</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">FC Barcelona has a long history of famous victories and memorable moments. Some of their most notable achievements include:</p>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Winning their first European Cup in 1992, with a famous free-kick goal by Ronald Koeman in the final against Sampdoria[10].</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Securing an unprecedented sextuple in 2009, winning the La Liga, Copa del Rey, UEFA Champions League, Spanish Super Cup, UEFA Super Cup, and FIFA Club World Cup in a single calendar year[10].</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">The historic 6-1 victory against Paris Saint-Germain in the 2016-17 UEFA Champions League, completing a remarkable comeback after losing the first leg 4-0[10].</li>
</ul>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Camp Nou Stadium</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Camp Nou is FC Barcelona's mythical football stadium and Europe’s largest by capacity with over 99,000 seats. It opened in 1957 after club president at the time, Francesc Miró-Sans, proposed building a larger stadium. The first match at Camp Nou was played on September 24, 1957 as part of a ceremony honoring founder Joan Gamper.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As FC Barcelona continued to grow, Camp Nou underwent several expansions to reach its current capacity. Some of Barça’s greatest nights such as improbable comebacks against Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan took place at an electric Camp Nou. The stadium houses the club’s museum, megastore, headquarters and training facilities.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Inside The FC Barcelona Museum</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The FC Barcelona Museum offers a comprehensive showcase of the club's illustrious history through decades of precious memorabilia. Located under the stands of Camp Nou stadium, it occupies 3,500 square meters spread across three floors. The museum received 1.5 million visitors annually as of 2022.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Key sections include the FC Barcelona gallery tracing the club's entire history using trophies, photos and audiovisual displays. Apart from silverware, visitors can admire antique kits, match balls, boots of legendary players and more. The museum also houses rotating exhibitions on specific eras, players and matches from Barça’s past.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Multimedia stations allow visitors to relive Barça’s greatest goals and moments. The museum holds special significance by telling the unique story of FC Barcelona and Catalonia through the lens of football.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">The museum occupies 3,500 square meters and is divided into three main sections: the historic museum, the 'Futbol art' Collection, and a section featuring temporary exhibitions. Visitors can explore the club's major trophies, including the Champions League Cup, and enjoy interactive multimedia exhibits, a 3D cinema, and audiovisual touch-screens.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Some highlights of the museum include an area dedicated to Lionel Messi and his golden balls, a large interactive screen where visitors can learn about highlights from the club's history, and a small section dedicated to the women's team as well as other Barça teams (basketball, handball, hockey, etc.). The museum also features an immersive 360º show in the "Spotify Camp Nou Live" space, where visitors can experience the emotions of being in the center of the stadium.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Planning Your Visit to Camp Nou Museum</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Visiting the Camp Nou Museum is a must-do for football lovers visiting Barcelona. Here are some tips to plan your visit:</p>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Purchase <b>skip-the-line tickets online</b> in advance since they often sell out, especially during peak seasons. This allows entry at a reserved time.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Use <b>public transport</b> to get to the stadium, as parking is limited. The metro stations near Camp Nou are Palau Reial, Collblanc and Badal.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Avoid Mondays</b> when the museum is closed or matchdays when stadium access is restricted. Check the schedule before visiting.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><b>Allocate 2-3 hours</b> to fully experience the museum exhibits at a comfortable pace. Audioguides are available to enrich the visit.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Bring your <b>camera</b> to snap photos with the trophies and displays around the museum.</li>
</ul>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Visiting Camp Nou is a bucket-list experience for football lovers to immerse themselves in the glorious history of legendary FC Barcelona. With the ultimate bragging rights of touring the stadium and museum, it will be an unforgettable highlight of your Barcelona trip.</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">As FC Barcelona celebrates over 120 years of excellence, its museum remains a shrine where generations of fans can reminisce on legendary players and teams who made the club a global phenomenon. For any football enthusiast visiting Barcelona, an afternoon spent exploring over a century of Barça history is a must.</p>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comC/ d'Arístides Maillol, s/n, 08028 Barcelona, Spain41.3802643 2.120908513.070030463821155 -33.0353415 69.690498136178846 37.2771585tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-34301446394756407522023-07-16T17:38:00.044+02:002023-07-22T22:00:00.508+02:00Discover the Narrow Alleys of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxfrLcQvU_2J4ufl0vXxBXcAA0p35IHvW0l2gUQREtjXZrQiT-MmgOlA3inylBtnGtWlDEn21mVy9ix1c-8Ef_Rqep_sN1CiwBl5sbmsCkxL2SbcDOpkB2ACFaMr0lwxpK4lS29_ZsICdyPiBsiwy6oloUxo5lgefPa5fvjRYNz3iJ30osE7FQw/s1359/Gothic%20quarter%20alleys.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="the narrow alleys of Gothic quarter in Barcelona, Spain" border="0" data-original-height="1359" data-original-width="900" loading="eager" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrxfrLcQvU_2J4ufl0vXxBXcAA0p35IHvW0l2gUQREtjXZrQiT-MmgOlA3inylBtnGtWlDEn21mVy9ix1c-8Ef_Rqep_sN1CiwBl5sbmsCkxL2SbcDOpkB2ACFaMr0lwxpK4lS29_ZsICdyPiBsiwy6oloUxo5lgefPa5fvjRYNz3iJ30osE7FQw/s16000/Gothic%20quarter%20alleys.jpg" width="640" height="966" /></a>
</div>
<br />
<h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">
Unveiling the Charm of Barri Gòtic
</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Explore the enchanting Gothic Quarter, also known as the Barri Gòtic, and
discover the hidden treasures nestled within its narrow alleys. Stepping into
this historic neighborhood feels like a journey back in time, where Gothic
architecture and medieval ambiance permeate the winding streets. In this
article, we will delve into the rich history of the Gothic Quarter, explore
its narrow alleys, and understand why this part of town is appropriately
called Gothic.
</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">
The Fascinating History of the Gothic Quarter
</h3><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The Gothic Quarter, or Barri Gòtic, is one of the most atmospheric and
fascinating neighborhoods in Barcelona. It is a tangle of narrow streets, hidden
courtyards, and ancient buildings.</div><p style="text-align: justify;">
As one of the oldest districts in Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter is steeped in
centuries of history. Its origins can be traced back to the Roman era when the
city, then known as Barcino, was established. However, it was during the
Middle Ages that the area truly flourished. In fact, the barri gotic
became the political and religious center of Barcelona, and it was home to the
royal palace, the cathedral, and many other important buildings.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
During this period, the walls of the Roman city were fortified for protection.
The maze-like streets and alleys that now define the Gothic Quarter were a
product of this transformation. The area became densely populated, with grand
Gothic structures towering above narrow, winding lanes. The name "Gothic"
derives from the architectural style predominant during the 12th and 13th
centuries. However, the quarter also contains buildings from other periods,
including Romanesque, Renaissance, and Baroque.
</p><div style="text-align: justify;">One of the most popular things to do in the Gothic Quarter is to simply wander
around and get lost in the maze of streets. There are many hidden gems to
discover, such as small shops, cafes, and museums. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Unveiling the Gothic Charm</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Today, the Gothic Quarter seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity.
Exploring its narrow alleys feels like entering a different world, where every
corner reveals a story waiting to be discovered.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
As you stroll through the maze of cobblestone streets, let the Gothic
architecture take your breath away. Imposing structures adorned with intricate
details evoke a sense of awe, reminiscent of a bygone era. Marvel at the
soaring spires of the Barcelona Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece that
stands proudly amidst the ancient streets. Lose yourself in the Gothic charm
as you meander through the Calle Petritxol, known for its artisanal shops and
traditional cafes, or the Carrer del Bisbe, a narrow alleyway adorned with
breathtaking medieval passages.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Here are some of the sites and buildings that you must visit in the Gothic
quarter of Barcelona:
</p>
<ul style="margin: 4px 0px; padding-inline-start: 36px;">
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;">Gothic Cathedral: This is the most important religious building in Barcelona, and it is one of the most impressive Gothic cathedrals in the world.<div>
<single-image _nghost-ng-c31078449="" ng-version="0.0.0-PLACEHOLDER" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; min-width: 250px; padding: 8px; vertical-align: top; width: 267px;">
<div _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" class="image-container hide-from-message-actions" hide-from-message-actions="">
<div _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" class="overlay-container" style="position: relative;"><a _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" _nghost-ng-c1153969123="" aria-live="polite" class="image-source-link ng-star-inserted" externallink="" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barcelona_Cathedral" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">
<span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Gothic Cathedral Barcelona" class="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivCKKFQGrAAWBQg1mDJTiZ7n4RehzOWYqzBclDjC1andqDV1NSznpgcMzyOQ-jOt2DH05DglpNb4MwwmBCLLUMHji6p2-I0lXyk438AUohOZmxVHygweX-NakURABCZC6rJl8_mSYWXCiz_rNqllGL7JE9E3_QRsc0flYVoJudHafW7GNrQfDZKg/s960/Barcelona_Cathedral_Saint_Eulalia.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span>
</a></div>
</div></single-image></div></li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Roman Aqueduct & Temple: The remains of a Roman aqueduct and
temple can be found near the cathedral.</span>
<div style="font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif;">
<single-image _nghost-ng-c31078449="" ng-version="0.0.0-PLACEHOLDER" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; min-width: 250px; padding: 8px; vertical-align: top; width: 267px;"><div _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" class="image-container hide-from-message-actions" hide-from-message-actions="">
<div _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" class="overlay-container" style="position: relative;">
<a _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" _nghost-ng-c1153969123="" aria-live="polite" class="image-source-link ng-star-inserted" externallink="" href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/08/barcelona-walls-remnants.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Roman Aqueduct Barcelona" class="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyCFqXtrrTMtV5ZO4Cn335tRe-isP8f2hByzEuB4pHKFCZvcL2d3W2WqskcoCVovjtSBs1kecFeuudlh78O-mhSvNSM4r8SEJfmsghiWwie63Me9c_P4GVMkEgT7qXPZ-F_LKQyF88UjcUkfQxqXWajQPVTGfe7soZJ_ff-MqzCVrZmuCHd8bmpQ/s1600/Barcelona%20city%20wall%20and%20aqueduct.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span>
</a>
</div></div></single-image>
</div>
</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Plaça Sant Jaume: This square was once the Roman forum of Barcelona,
and it is now home to the Palau de la Generalitat and the Barcelona City
Hall.</span>
<div style="font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif;">
<single-image _nghost-ng-c31078449="" ng-version="0.0.0-PLACEHOLDER" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; min-width: 250px; padding: 8px; vertical-align: top; width: 267px;"><div _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" class="image-container hide-from-message-actions" hide-from-message-actions="">
<div _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" class="overlay-container" style="position: relative;">
<a _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" _nghost-ng-c1153969123="" aria-live="polite" class="image-source-link ng-star-inserted" externallink="" href="https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plaza_de_San_Jaime" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Plaça Sant Jaume Barcelona" class="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieYeT6cjrfXSFv7a4Lhh696Y6nHzU_QYYWUk8xD4BYPcUoXILuZGr0awidLRFdSDF5D2PzafhNJPNaYRFD-DyNWALHWVU7KveA2UwOPlvdI4E1lgKRv5ST_51R8wRKDVytt8VRIzXfDOGLWSTdkd8U2LXNAMF5RxWElRb4m5Y4IsUO04-mfQ8mIQ/s1600/Ajuntament_de_Barcelona.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span>
</a>
</div></div></single-image>
</div>
</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Plaça Reial: This square is known for its palm trees, Gaudi-designed
lampposts, and central fountain. It is a popular spot for people-watching
and nightlife.</span>
<div style="font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif;">
<single-image _nghost-ng-c31078449="" ng-version="0.0.0-PLACEHOLDER" style="box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block; min-width: 250px; padding: 8px; vertical-align: top; width: 267px;"><div _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" class="image-container hide-from-message-actions" hide-from-message-actions="">
<div _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" class="overlay-container" style="position: relative;">
<a _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" _nghost-ng-c1153969123="" aria-live="polite" class="image-source-link ng-star-inserted" externallink="" href="https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plaza_Real" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Plaça Reial Barcelona" class="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizyamwC0hxras1T3Cnila_F4epinGkcBlArxZsuLXfyY7DXxeJFfYIiOqJFlzab60V5nt2FIAyL2LfAcXgCL4nopnkcPuKxZsgamrrElxnz64GVBG3sBhYVdLkya6kckJuG8Ovu4I9rsoFH5H3AmR1Am8nCmbm6Yq8KcinPi5B1opYFFNO2f8jKA/s1600/Pla%C3%A7a_Reial,_Barcelona.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span>
</a>
</div></div></single-image>
</div>
</li>
<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Plaça del Rei: This square is home to the Royal Palace, the Mirador
del Rei Martí, the Royal Chapel, and the Casa Padellàs. It is also the
site of the main branch of the History Museum.</span>
<div style="font-family: "Google Sans", "Helvetica Neue", sans-serif;">
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<a _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" _nghost-ng-c1153969123="" aria-live="polite" class="image-source-link ng-star-inserted" externallink="" href="https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plaza_del_Rey_(Barcelona)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Plaça del Rei Barcelona" class="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK1QvnLEStHk1PBsKMS-Rmj1dVz_8wA-Wrf55di-uilIw95ioSTWz2vufG9ObsgCVGK6f9AbqoIvdKvycZL7Tc7uNxTZ0CVFLwXjfAqrInSd195ILaTqHHzt5UgBODBvvFinu2A3IXl5stFyKNZi00sfYVe_qfE0P_TNfDE8Pubmb8FYkI6sU-8Q/s1600/Pla%C3%A7a_del_Rei.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span></a>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Santa Maria del Pi: This basilica is a good example of Catalan
Gothic architecture. It has a 54-meter-high octagonal bell tower that
offers views of the old town.</span>
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<a _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" _nghost-ng-c1153969123="" aria-live="polite" class="image-source-link ng-star-inserted" externallink="" href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2008/09/rose-window-santa-maria-del-pi-church.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Santa Maria del Pi Barcelona" class="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfIyA82ucDeJwYEbcwHPX6cfgW5G7BqQEdKJohApnBqDbubd2huIBXAmY_z6udUVGqSqNFDnXDCX0fkpuhRK_MNXv0LevKMPVGzlwg86VPBu7miLj7KqlxSX8IdexJT9nGFiMHog3omr1mQ3f9GdeEVUn8GRBku3TKosQ33e5K7IIngFOBi0G-Tg/s1600/Santa%20Maria%20del%20Pi.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span></a>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Ancient Synagogue of Barcelona: This synagogue is one of Europe's
oldest. It is now a place of worship and the home of a small museum.</span>
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<a _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" _nghost-ng-c1153969123="" aria-live="polite" class="image-source-link ng-star-inserted" externallink="" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ancient_synagogue_(Barcelona)" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Ancient Synagogue of Barcelona" class="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCVPN-YI0MA19FxKo1wG7qnHlrfqQfdaK993wrAG38M3Hc9PQysN0SuCJjsTgy8FlKK-_rF1b7OEY35UopqJ8XLl34d7xKPpZoagwnGyOcAOD0qQX4fDg4bUK9o1qXxRGg6O8xsblAjbxYuUTz6hEVtuJuEtAMtMxYG6-0imAuSV2MawjXUrI1xQ/s1600/Call_de_Barcelona_Marlet.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span></a>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Plaça Felip Neri: This square is well-hidden in the Gothic Quarter.
It is known for its shrapnel-scarred walls and the tragic story of the
bombing that took place here in 1938.</span>
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<a _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" _nghost-ng-c1153969123="" aria-live="polite" class="image-source-link ng-star-inserted" externallink="" href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2011/06/sant-felip-neri-square-barri-gotic.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Plaça Felip Neri Barcelona" class="image" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-t4jiL-_8iLI/XNnbt10OATI/AAAAAAAAQzk/EOCNlPHm91MMfzZWnm3FkuZeMT3ndfv1QCLcBGAs/s1600/Plaza%2BSant%2BFelip%2BNeri%2BBarcelona.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span></a>
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<li style="margin-bottom: 10px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Frederic Mares Museum: This museum houses a collection of
sculptures, household objects, and artisan objects from the 19th
century.</span>
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<a _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" _nghost-ng-c1153969123="" aria-live="polite" class="image-source-link ng-star-inserted" externallink="" href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2014/02/frederic-mares-museum-barcelona-act-of.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Frederic Mares Museum Barcelona" class="image" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TDE9qa9zKdY/UvapXKKxcZI/AAAAAAAAHVQ/vAl6KMMttas/s1600/DSC_9519Polychromed+Head.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span></a>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Plaça George Orwell: This square is named after the author of Animal
Farm and 1984. It was once a hangout for drunks and druggies, but it has
since been cleaned up and is now a popular spot for people-watching.</span>
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<a _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" _nghost-ng-c1153969123="" aria-live="polite" class="image-source-link ng-star-inserted" externallink="" href="https://cityseeker.com/barcelona/76072-george-orwell-square" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"><span _ngcontent-ng-c1153969123="" class="ng-star-inserted" data-test-id="content"><img _ngcontent-ng-c31078449="" alt="Plaça George Orwell Barcelona" class="image" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiioNtTlpLGXu_mhV3QjJiF77eBPLdHUtKIeJ3z_w-1uG78xcyF1cULYz6zwMSYA1zGcsJZlclkt8-nrI9V9Jo1_DsU_23OBDfMDMUtUKXXDh6W1jACRXp_BnHzvmveBXbjgsxWspF0KXGg_wn0Fat_bejkrKVQSnone-DsNuf8gBT1mik-SMrJg/s1600/Pla%C3%A7a%20George%20Orwell%20Escudellers_59.jpg" style="border-radius: 16px; display: block; height: 200px; object-fit: cover; width: 251px;" /></span></a>
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<h3 style="text-align: justify;"><br /></h3><h3 style="text-align: justify;">Immersing in the Enigmatic Atmosphere</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Beyond its architectural beauty, the Gothic Quarter offers an enigmatic
atmosphere that captivates visitors. Allow yourself to get lost in the
labyrinth of streets, and you will be rewarded with hidden squares and
tucked-away corners that ooze charm. Plaza Sant Felip Neri, with its
picturesque fountain and serene ambiance, provides a tranquil escape from the
bustling city. Situated amidst ancient buildings, it also serves as a poignant
reminder of the district's tumultuous past.</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona's Gothic Legacy</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
The Gothic Quarter stands as a testament to Barcelona's rich and diverse
history. Its architecture and narrow alleys offer a glimpse into the city's
medieval past, while the modern shops and restaurants blend seamlessly into
the historic district.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;">
Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, a
neighborhood that transports you to another era. Discover the narrow alleys
that wind through its historic streets, where Gothic architecture and medieval
ambiance evoke a sense of wonder. Unveiling the secrets of the Barri Gòtic is
an experience that will leave a lasting impression, allowing you to appreciate
the essence of this captivating district.
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p>
Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comGothic Quarter, Barcelona, Spain41.3819247 2.177305213.071690863821154 -32.9789448 69.692158536178852 37.3335552tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-67578663725423228012023-07-02T02:54:00.010+02:002023-07-23T21:38:24.565+02:00How to Make the Most of Your First Trip to Barcelona in 2023<p style="text-align: justify;">
Barcelona is a city that captivates visitors from around the globe with its blend of history, culture, and stunning architecture. Here are some essential travel tips to make the most of your first trip to Barcelona:
</p>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>Plan your itinerary wisely</b>. Barcelona offers a wealth of attractions and activities, so it's important to plan your itinerary wisely. Start by outlining a list of the things you most want to see and do. Be sure to include iconic sites such as the Gothic Quarter, Las Ramblas, and the Sagrada Familia. You can find more information about these attractions in my blog posts about the <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/search/label/gothic%20quarter" target="_blank">Gothic Quarter</a>, about <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/search/label/las%20ramblas" target="_blank">Las Ramblas</a>, and about the <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/search/label/sagrada%20familia" target="_blank">Sagrada Familia</a>.
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<div align="left">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuZbg_47yXf_dDwirEEb16AC63r37fS82G7N-rNCBhqLEc-BJSENUh5yeSQdXHpQN9jfU04B0AZQHA8GwJ1K-EvTLGmQ2fY-W02S-hxBHTaEezVd5EexFn68FLArg06qcwmCPMyBoypWQPc6tB8C73SwGSfF_R8AkaAobUPrdBt4TlcA1NZKoVlA/s1280/Archway%20at-Carrer-del-Bisbe-Barcelona.jpg" ><img alt="Carrer del Bisbe, Gothic Quarter, Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuZbg_47yXf_dDwirEEb16AC63r37fS82G7N-rNCBhqLEc-BJSENUh5yeSQdXHpQN9jfU04B0AZQHA8GwJ1K-EvTLGmQ2fY-W02S-hxBHTaEezVd5EexFn68FLArg06qcwmCPMyBoypWQPc6tB8C73SwGSfF_R8AkaAobUPrdBt4TlcA1NZKoVlA/w200-h133/Archway%20at-Carrer-del-Bisbe-Barcelona.jpg" title="Bisbe street, Barri Gotic, Barcelona" width="200" /></a>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFTLZChKcCLksnYAyL6-sKDtFnamAOzSo7BpMQpS-1FvQDu0a_ST5jW6s-cvDcNXH5dxI8GIgxOEjN1SVLPf9cU55TR_wOyU1DDfxFMhHVxyLvsKdHqb8jWMIRJx1_B7Y3tBxxEAhGekOOdJmsBGjIwr4MjeDZIutPgZnDL5YMoxEOnho5UwBOaA/s1280/Tango%20dancers%20at%20Las%20Ramblas.jpg" ><img alt="Tango dancers in Las Ramblas, Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFTLZChKcCLksnYAyL6-sKDtFnamAOzSo7BpMQpS-1FvQDu0a_ST5jW6s-cvDcNXH5dxI8GIgxOEjN1SVLPf9cU55TR_wOyU1DDfxFMhHVxyLvsKdHqb8jWMIRJx1_B7Y3tBxxEAhGekOOdJmsBGjIwr4MjeDZIutPgZnDL5YMoxEOnho5UwBOaA/w200-h133/Tango%20dancers%20at%20Las%20Ramblas.jpg" title="Street artists in Las Ramblas, Barcelona" width="200" /></a>
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<div align="right">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl0kvGr0A3wLB_qUV2EoAr4zEvwUFbZI2fTW08yuxzJCZXYYAzGIKCDW4NI_cwmBss9tsvYlHgk5n-X6uJdlFHyhz17WyGX1Wv_Bqmy52yIC8zpDhtY_-7g2A1EdCMKJSKXsQWXfDKDkRAKq1_hSgQB1VKPJoHulJ9CCYNTKFNUdMVrkJfeSneSw/s1600/Crypt-Pillars-at-%20Sagrada-Familia-Cathedral.jpg" ><img alt="Crypt pillars at Sagrada Familia Cathedral" border="0" data-original-height="1059" data-original-width="1600" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl0kvGr0A3wLB_qUV2EoAr4zEvwUFbZI2fTW08yuxzJCZXYYAzGIKCDW4NI_cwmBss9tsvYlHgk5n-X6uJdlFHyhz17WyGX1Wv_Bqmy52yIC8zpDhtY_-7g2A1EdCMKJSKXsQWXfDKDkRAKq1_hSgQB1VKPJoHulJ9CCYNTKFNUdMVrkJfeSneSw/w200-h132/Crypt-Pillars-at-%20Sagrada-Familia-Cathedral.jpg" title="Pillars inside the crypt at Sagrada Familia, Barcelona" width="200" /></a>
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<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>
Secure accommodation in advance</b>. Barcelona is a popular tourist destination, so it's important to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season. This will ensure you have a <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/search?q=accommodation" target="_blank">comfortable place to stay</a> and give you more options to choose from.
</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZzXe3oXtQIt2gPOO6lKGCj8fHr3IsNoQ_R9hz2Gfi-9CWl5f_6M8kJvXr5B5RHcmfLGRZC5XxfnTdObc9W8CZlltTgPl6UfjwWsCsLyDNDhYTYanYCDLg1eGJyXLOLvrV2_UDLUF8fbFj7CYx0N13aDslY3xUxLBMUpkGD0r4YmaT__QKLx_bA/s1280/Avenida-Palace-Hotel-Gran-Via-605-Barcelona.png" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="Avenida Palace Hotel, Barcelona, Spain" border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLZzXe3oXtQIt2gPOO6lKGCj8fHr3IsNoQ_R9hz2Gfi-9CWl5f_6M8kJvXr5B5RHcmfLGRZC5XxfnTdObc9W8CZlltTgPl6UfjwWsCsLyDNDhYTYanYCDLg1eGJyXLOLvrV2_UDLUF8fbFj7CYx0N13aDslY3xUxLBMUpkGD0r4YmaT__QKLx_bA/w200-h133/Avenida-Palace-Hotel-Gran-Via-605-Barcelona.png" title="Hotel Avenida Palace in Barcelona, Spain" width="200" /></a></div>
<p style="text-align: justify;"><b>
Obtain a Barcelona Card</b>. <a href="https://bcnshop.barcelonaturisme.com/shopv3/en/product/1/barcelona-card.html" target="_blank">The Barcelona Card is a great way to save money</a> on transportation, attractions, and tours. It can be purchased for one, two, or three days, and it gives you free entry to many of the city's most popular attractions, as well as discounts on public transportation and tours.
</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>
Familiarize yourself with basic Spanish phrases</b>. While many locals in Barcelona speak English, <a href="https://www.fluentin3months.com/common-spanish-phrases/" target="_blank">learning a few basic Spanish phrases</a> can be immensely helpful. Polite greetings, simple directions, and ordering food are a few key phrases that can enhance your interactions with locals and create a more immersive experience. Here is a list of basic words and phrases in Spanish:</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Certainly! Here are some useful Spanish words and phrases that can enhance your experience during your first visit to Barcelona:</p><p style="text-align: justify;">1. Greetings:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><ul><li>- Hello: Hola</li><li>- Good morning: Buenos días</li><li>- Good afternoon/evening: Buenas tardes</li><li>- Goodnight: Buenas noches</li><li>- Goodbye: Adiós</li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">2. Polite Expressions:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><ul><li>- Please: Por favor</li><li>- Thank you: Gracias</li><li>- You're welcome: De nada</li><li>- Excuse me: Perdón/Disculpe</li><li>- I'm sorry: Lo siento</li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">3. Basic Conversational Phrases:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><ul><li>- Yes: Sí</li><li>- No: No</li><li>- I don't understand: No entiendo</li><li>- Could you please repeat that?: ¿Podría repetir eso, por favor?</li><li>- Do you speak English?: ¿Habla inglés?</li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">4. Asking for Directions:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><ul><li>- Where is...?: ¿Dónde está...?</li><li>- How can I get to...?: ¿Cómo puedo llegar a...?</li><li>- Is it far?: ¿Está lejos?</li><li>- Left: Izquierda</li><li>- Right: Derecha</li><li>- Straight ahead: Todo recto</li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">5. Ordering Food and Drinks:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><ul><li>- I would like...: Me gustaría...</li><li>- What do you recommend?: ¿Qué me recomienda?</li><li>- Can I have the bill, please?: ¿Me puede traer la cuenta, por favor?</li><li>- A table for two, please: Una mesa para dos, por favor</li><li>- Cheers!: ¡Salud!</li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">6. Shopping:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><ul><li>- How much does it cost?: ¿Cuánto cuesta?</li><li>- Can I try it on?: ¿Puedo probármelo?</li><li>- I'm just browsing: Solo estoy mirando</li><li>- Do you have this in a different color/size?: ¿Tiene esto en otro color/talla?</li><li>- Can I pay with a credit card?: ¿Puedo pagar con tarjeta de crédito?</li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">7. Emergencies:</p><p style="text-align: justify;"></p><ul><li>- Help!: ¡Ayuda!</li><li>- I need a doctor: Necesito un médico</li><li>- Where is the nearest hospital?: ¿Dónde está el hospital más cercano?</li><li>- I lost my passport: Perdí mi pasaporte</li><li>- I've been robbed: Me han robado</li></ul><p></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Remember, even if you're not fluent in Spanish, locals appreciate the effort to communicate in their language. These basic phrases will help you navigate common situations and interact with locals more comfortably during your visit to Barcelona. If you manage to learn them in Catalan it would be great!</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>
Prepare for crowds</b>. Barcelona is a popular tourist destination, so certain areas like the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas can become crowded. Be prepared for bustling streets and plan accordingly. Exploring early in the morning or during weekdays might offer a more tranquil experience.
</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>
Utilize public transportation</b>. Barcelona boasts an efficient public transportation system, consisting of metro lines, buses, and trams. Purchase a T-10 ticket (no need to buy this one for each of you), which allows ten trips on various modes of transportation, or opt for a travel card that provides unlimited travel for a specific duration. Navigating the city becomes convenient, cost-effective, and time-saving with these options.
</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>
Wander on foot</b>. While public transportation is excellent, don't forget to explore Barcelona's streets on foot. Meander through the narrow alleys, soak in the city's atmosphere, and stumble upon hidden gems tucked away from the main tourist routes. Walking enables you to discover charming neighborhoods and stumble upon <a href="https://www.barcelonafoodexperience.com/blog/best-cafes-barcelona" target="_blank">quaint cafes</a> or <a href="https://wanderlog.com/list/geoCategory/122636/coolest-clothing-stores-and-boutiques-in-barcelona" target="_blank">boutique shops</a>. Tourist exploration has skyrocketed lately so finding new routes is not that frequent anymore. Don't stop trying though there are still unconquered treasures out there with a good pirate map.</p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>
Marvel at Gaudí's architectural wonders</b>. Antoni Gaudí's architectural masterpieces are an integral part of Barcelona's identity. No visit to the city is complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, the whimsical Park Güell, and the extraordinary Casa Milà (La Pedrera). Marvel at the intricate details and innovative designs that make Gaudí's works truly unique. But remember our architecture expands way beyond the master's legacy. Try other famous architects like <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/search/label/domenech%20i%20montaner" target="_blank">Domenech i Montaner</a> or check my list of <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2017/09/10-best-modernist-architectural-buildings-in-Barcelona.html" target="_blank">10 best modernist architectural buildings in Barcelona</a> </p>
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<p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>
Indulge in beach time</b>. <a href="https://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com/en/attractions/beaches/00-beaches.html" target="_blank">Barcelona's beautiful coastline</a> beckons visitors to relax and unwind. Set aside time to enjoy the city's sandy beaches, with Barceloneta Beach being the most renowned. Whether it's sunbathing, strolling along the promenade, or engaging in water sports, the Mediterranean Sea provides a refreshing escape. </p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b>
Experience the vibrant nightlife</b>. As the sun sets, <a href="https://www.barcelona-life.com/barcelona/nightlife" target="_blank">Barcelona's nightlife comes alive</a>. From <a href="https://theculturetrip.com/europe/spain/articles/the-10-best-bars-in-barcelona/" target="_blank">cozy bars</a> to <a href="https://www.gototravelguides.net/blog/best-nightclubs-bars-in-barcelona/" target="_blank">pulsating nightclubs</a>, the city offers a diverse range of options for nocturnal adventures. Explore the lively neighborhoods of El Raval, <a href="https://www.barcelona-metropolitan.com/living/settling-in/gracia-the-best-neighborhood-in-barcelona/" target="_blank">Gràcia</a>, or the trendy district of <a href="https://devourtours.com/blog/where-to-eat-barcelona-born-neighborhood/?cnt=US" target="_blank">El Born</a> (not just at night), where you can savor tapas, sip on refreshing cocktails, and dance the night away.
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<p style="text-align: justify;"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona is a city that encapsulates the essence of a rich culture and a captivating history, besides our architectural wonders. By following these travel tips, you can ensure a memorable experience during your first visit. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=waEucmD-Gs0" target="_blank">Embrace the energy of the city</a>, explore its hidden corners, and immerse yourself in the unique blend of Catalan charm that makes Barcelona an unparalleled destination.
</p><p></p>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comBarcelona, Spain41.3873974 2.16856813.077163563821152 -32.987682 69.697631236178836 37.324818tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-39438350523813479512023-06-25T19:47:00.012+02:002023-07-23T22:15:09.965+02:00Best Barcelona Neighborhoods and Areas to Stay<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjThQrTk-Gq0kvc-P6_UDlJYhi1VkpFEiGAZs21V9yCpZxI6jNv276dYBZp6WMHBgKWywSKJxyNp3tbW4MRjgrPf0zPIwiwbia5gefydvmqz5uZlL44sMkZKDNvW1076gBd-BqXxVuoePudMmj0Wd9QNM_zr4k7biGmPxVvwPEkAGq-vxdhYChUJA/s1024/Barcelona%20-%20Design%20your%20Stay.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Sagrada Familia design with Barcelona view in the background" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" height="640" loading="eager" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjThQrTk-Gq0kvc-P6_UDlJYhi1VkpFEiGAZs21V9yCpZxI6jNv276dYBZp6WMHBgKWywSKJxyNp3tbW4MRjgrPf0zPIwiwbia5gefydvmqz5uZlL44sMkZKDNvW1076gBd-BqXxVuoePudMmj0Wd9QNM_zr4k7biGmPxVvwPEkAGq-vxdhYChUJA/w640-h640/Barcelona%20-%20Design%20your%20Stay.jpg" title="Best Barcelona Neighborhoods and Areas to Stay" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a wide range of neighborhoods and areas to stay in, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you're interested in exploring historical landmarks, experiencing the local culture, or indulging in the city's culinary delights, Barcelona has something to offer for every traveler. Here are some of the best neighborhoods and areas to consider for your stay in Barcelona, along with recommended accommodations in each area.</div><p style="text-align: justify;">1. Eixample: Known for its grid-like layout and stunning architecture, Eixample is a popular neighborhood that offers a mix of modernity and tradition. With wide boulevards, <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2020/01/casa-berenguer-or-casa-clapes-modernist-building-barcelona.html" target="_blank">casas modernistas</a> or art nouveau buildings, designer boutiques, and exquisite dining options, Eixample attracts visitors looking for a luxurious stay. Recommended accommodations in Eixample include:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Five-star hotel: <a href="https://www.hotelpalacebarcelona.com/" target="_blank">Hotel El Palace Barcelona</a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Four-star hotel: <a href="https://www.hotelpulitzer.es/" target="_blank">Hotel Pulitzer Barcelona</a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Four-star hotel: <a href="https://www.condesdebarcelona.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Condes de Barcelona </a> </li></ul><br /><p></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZiEVmk8ZMJD4ubohBQKscinalQp0fHKLwH1DI4g_TG0VRLfBNEWw6pZOTmJefYm8z7w-n74V4zkFNza3OLkQvEBt6ZnkNlKXkua2k-MCrAjwS1AysGhxVSyORNraoHmo7setFwY4AdXlomE7S8gGugWSiBSjA-AJpyKcXv-MQIbPomlaump-nxA/s1200/Casa-Berenguer-Casa-or-Clapes-Modernist-Building-in-Barcelona.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Casa modernista at l'Eixample, Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZiEVmk8ZMJD4ubohBQKscinalQp0fHKLwH1DI4g_TG0VRLfBNEWw6pZOTmJefYm8z7w-n74V4zkFNza3OLkQvEBt6ZnkNlKXkua2k-MCrAjwS1AysGhxVSyORNraoHmo7setFwY4AdXlomE7S8gGugWSiBSjA-AJpyKcXv-MQIbPomlaump-nxA/w150-h200/Casa-Berenguer-Casa-or-Clapes-Modernist-Building-in-Barcelona.jpg" title="Casa Berenguer or Casa Clapes" width="150" /></a></div>
<br /><p style="text-align: justify;">2. Barceloneta: Formerly the old fishermen's quarter, Barceloneta sits right on the Mediterranean coast, making it an ideal choice for <a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1yfRcSVK1Ko/U006y38HnkI/AAAAAAAAHbE/mIW2WB5uqvk/s1600/Lovers-Kissing-Paella-Menu.jpg" target="_blank">beach lovers</a>. Its narrow streets are lined with low-rise buildings, and the neighborhood exudes a laid-back, seaside vibe. Enjoy fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants, take a stroll along the boardwalk, or soak up the sun on Barceloneta Beach. Recommended accommodations in Barceloneta include:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Five-star hotel: <a href="https://www.hotelartsbarcelona.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Arts Barcelona</a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Four-star hotel: <a href="https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/bcnwh-w-barcelona/" target="_blank">Hotel W Barcelona</a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Three-star hotel: <a href="https://www.hotel54barceloneta.es/en/" target="_blank">Hotel 54 Barceloneta </a></li></ul><p></p><br />
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<td><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9fi7UTVdAhpJ7GW84EPEBu3Nz-mpfL2vuq_V7oLGHgQhcmSBz9q5Rvk-hiVipPP_mVbzi3d9tjhQy0DDaEbBAKnxCESakXSDa95DfUwOFo5Ul0uxAWjt5u4DnttlETwoiVrHpDd5Cx6CWerZFVwYhK_mXroWu7BK1ujP9akjSNTfozKMQ3gBnw/s1600/Lovers-Kissing-Paella-Menu.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Lovers in terrace near La Barceloneta beach, Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE9fi7UTVdAhpJ7GW84EPEBu3Nz-mpfL2vuq_V7oLGHgQhcmSBz9q5Rvk-hiVipPP_mVbzi3d9tjhQy0DDaEbBAKnxCESakXSDa95DfUwOFo5Ul0uxAWjt5u4DnttlETwoiVrHpDd5Cx6CWerZFVwYhK_mXroWu7BK1ujP9akjSNTfozKMQ3gBnw/w200-h133/Lovers-Kissing-Paella-Menu.jpg" title="Barceloneta terraces, street photograph by Carlos Lorenzo" width="200" /></a></div></td>
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<br /><p style="text-align: justify;">3. El Raval: Packed with culture and diversity, El Raval is an eclectic neighborhood that appeals to the artistic and bohemian crowd. This vibrant area is home to the Museum of Contemporary Art, La <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2008/09/visit-la-boqueria-market-in-barcelona.html" target="_blank">Boqueria Market</a> and the Maritime Museum. It's a great place to immerse yourself in Barcelona's thriving arts scene, savor international cuisine, and explore its lively nightlife. Recommended accommodations in El Raval include:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Five-star hotel: <a href="https://www.hotel1898.com/" target="_blank">Hotel 1898</a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Four-star hotel: <a href="https://www.barcelo.com/en-us/barcelo-raval/" target="_blank">Hotel Barceló Raval</a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Two-star hotel: <a href="https://www.hotel-bcn40barcelona.com/en/" target="_blank">Hotel Acta BCN 40</a> </li></ul><p></p><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf7iSymEynjaQdgGN9N7-cOJa2RWJxkqIaFuKFwL9nBIuyORQ32FhTXaPwc8RZPX5jj8rHoHNrOgKD_n40NpAN-xzmyExKVK4BwoC2AwaG5KvI1BBATiWDO-UZgS4r0u7vrjbIB7xSFhNce4nND9pqcHGCIVVXa87wfvzDrgFYJgo_W12mWMisGg/s1024/Boqueria-Market.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img alt="La Boqueria market in Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="737" data-original-width="1024" height="144" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf7iSymEynjaQdgGN9N7-cOJa2RWJxkqIaFuKFwL9nBIuyORQ32FhTXaPwc8RZPX5jj8rHoHNrOgKD_n40NpAN-xzmyExKVK4BwoC2AwaG5KvI1BBATiWDO-UZgS4r0u7vrjbIB7xSFhNce4nND9pqcHGCIVVXa87wfvzDrgFYJgo_W12mWMisGg/w200-h144/Boqueria-Market.jpg" title="View of the lamps in La Boqueria market" width="200" /></a>
<br /><br /><p style="text-align: justify;">4. <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2012/12/barri-de-gracia-bohemian-lights.html" target="_blank">Gracia: Barcelona's bohemian hangout</a>, Gracia, offers a more laid-back and local atmosphere compared to the bustling city center. This neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat while still being within reach of the main attractions. Spend your holiday exploring quiet lanes, visiting charming squares, and discovering boutiques and cozy cafes. Recommended accommodations in Gracia include:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Five-star hotel: <a href="https://www.hotelcasafuster.com/" target="_blank">Casa Fuster Hotel </a></li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Four-star hotel: <a href="https://casabonay.com/ " target="_blank">Hotel Casa Bonay</a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Three-star hotel: <a href="https://www.hotelviaaugusta.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Via Augusta</a></li></ul><p></p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8tQaklF1kGg7Y4rACC51QCrhrqSRE9NBvCJ2FfKtAfwdDVDR5UMe7lv5bMevkWGbJSqRBoms-QGtpQEiCB07hiYjJ2f4MhetZ62mlmSWGWRf92GnNn3YxgCwZOejQbe8T_zZ2qkCNN-V5QGYA70PcIsSGagbvq6UrNHdRZZN_3AhHuRJ7HcaEHQ/s1546/Bohemian-afternoon-lights-Gracia-quarter-Barcelona%20(1).jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Afternoon scenes in Gracia quarter, Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1546" data-original-width="1024" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8tQaklF1kGg7Y4rACC51QCrhrqSRE9NBvCJ2FfKtAfwdDVDR5UMe7lv5bMevkWGbJSqRBoms-QGtpQEiCB07hiYjJ2f4MhetZ62mlmSWGWRf92GnNn3YxgCwZOejQbe8T_zZ2qkCNN-V5QGYA70PcIsSGagbvq6UrNHdRZZN_3AhHuRJ7HcaEHQ/w133-h200/Bohemian-afternoon-lights-Gracia-quarter-Barcelona%20(1).jpg" title="Beautiful barri de Gracia in Barcelona, street photograph by Carlos Lorenzo" width="133" /></a></div><br />
<br /><p style="text-align: justify;">5. El Poblenou: Located near the beach, El Poblenou is a trendy and up-and-coming neighborhood with a vibrant mix of old and new. Living in El Poblenou is a unique experience, from the cobblestone streets to the stunning industrial architecture. This area is known for its thriving tech and creative scene, and it offers a range of restaurants like <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2008/03/escribas-desserts.html" target="_blank">Xiringuito Escriba</a>, hip cafes, bars, and art galleries. Recommended accommodations in El Poblenou include:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Five-star hotel: <a href="https://www.hotelsbglow.com/" target="_blank">Hotel SB Glow</a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Four-star hotel: <a href="https://www.vinccibit.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Vincci Bit </a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Three-star hotel: <a href="https://www.travelodge.es/" target="_blank">Hotel Travelodge Barcelona Poblenou</a> </li></ul><p></p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: right;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjf1qTemLtgUZk4odL8U5MKIkSor3Lp6E46F19WJ1rsBoP8h7A4Qr94AfNABX6qRj_1s62obnrH__sjvamtNAvsOSFo-jxCSnm3O19y6-4tn02d7-vJNPsVS_wLoFL4PO-5bEL9eoW6aMk5SDjraW-PF3qCx69ckekE1BgGtlCKLtDBN49CoVfg/s1280/Xiringuito-Escriba-desserts.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Dessert at Escribà restaurant by the beach in Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1280" height="133" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFjf1qTemLtgUZk4odL8U5MKIkSor3Lp6E46F19WJ1rsBoP8h7A4Qr94AfNABX6qRj_1s62obnrH__sjvamtNAvsOSFo-jxCSnm3O19y6-4tn02d7-vJNPsVS_wLoFL4PO-5bEL9eoW6aMk5SDjraW-PF3qCx69ckekE1BgGtlCKLtDBN49CoVfg/w200-h133/Xiringuito-Escriba-desserts.jpg" title="Dessert at Escribà restaurant by the beach in Barcelona" width="200" /></a></div>
<br /><p style="text-align: justify;">6. Poble Sec: The neighborhood of Poble Sec is a hidden gem for foodies and theater enthusiasts. Located at the foot of Montjuïc hill (with Olympic sports facilities and <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/08/girl-on-mnac-steps.html" target="_blank">MNAC museum</a>), it offers a diverse range of restaurants, tapas bars, and live music venues. Poble Sec is also close to the popular street of Carrer Blai, known for its pintxos bars where you can sample delicious Basque cuisine. Recommended accommodations in Poble Sec include:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Five-star hotel: <a href="https://www.hotelbrummell.com/" target="_blank">Hotel Brummell </a></li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Four-star hotel: <a href="https://www.hotelparalel.com/en/" target="_blank">Hotel Paral·lel</a> </li><li style="text-align: justify;"> - Three-star hotel: <a href="https://hotelgrumsbarcelona.com/en/" target="_blank">Hotel Grums Barcelona</a> </li></ul><p></p><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPeoZS-SZS0blmB3QcLweD23ZeJ0TasXG_QmLfMlWBdO6yuwo5bUFffjpT9lynpvq71xGj9T1i8f9cLIpWFypUearh2sZK041_wlkTzafiMcZwv6eSUnKDfaFotYCVhz1i_daismrqeKPLjyma90nxH82oShzVWBHWNQ3dn7lKA7jn3ro2Y-drMQ/s960/Girl%20on%20the%20steps%20of%20MNAC,%20Barcelona.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="MNAC museum, Barcelona, Spain" border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="638" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPeoZS-SZS0blmB3QcLweD23ZeJ0TasXG_QmLfMlWBdO6yuwo5bUFffjpT9lynpvq71xGj9T1i8f9cLIpWFypUearh2sZK041_wlkTzafiMcZwv6eSUnKDfaFotYCVhz1i_daismrqeKPLjyma90nxH82oShzVWBHWNQ3dn7lKA7jn3ro2Y-drMQ/w133-h200/Girl%20on%20the%20steps%20of%20MNAC,%20Barcelona.jpg" title="View of the entrance to MNAC museum, Montjuic, Barcelona, Spain" width="133" /></a></div><br /><p style="text-align: justify;">When choosing the best neighborhood to stay in Barcelona, consider your interests and preferences. Each neighborhood offers a different ambiance and a variety of attractions to explore. Whether you want to be close to the beach, immerse yourself in local culture, or indulge in culinary delights, Barcelona has a neighborhood that will suit your needs and make your stay unforgettable.</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><table style="text-align: justify;">
</table>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-55495227368259252272023-06-15T23:51:00.008+02:002023-07-11T00:31:49.475+02:00Why Barcelona is Worth Visiting Against All Odds<i><p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpFjU02qcOR9P1gOiTaWv2wfZk3fC82wpZYaZm_g3r2d5gg13vdmVuzxUAKbJK0N4iD6b96Mya3uFV3-t0TD5UrJoLPu3xOTjv29vOsgJItbw3TCxBjdKONSxHzmURF5B5pvDc8mKlUivJF58Lv3Qdy9l5GCrLssWvy42ChPf9MiScPYsRHylKEw/s991/Barcelona%20beaches%20and%20architecture.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="991" data-original-width="961" width="640" loading="eager" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpFjU02qcOR9P1gOiTaWv2wfZk3fC82wpZYaZm_g3r2d5gg13vdmVuzxUAKbJK0N4iD6b96Mya3uFV3-t0TD5UrJoLPu3xOTjv29vOsgJItbw3TCxBjdKONSxHzmURF5B5pvDc8mKlUivJF58Lv3Qdy9l5GCrLssWvy42ChPf9MiScPYsRHylKEw/s16000/Barcelona%20beaches%20and%20architecture.jpeg" /></a></div><br /><p></p><blockquote style="text-align: justify;">According to Condé Nast Johansens, Barcelona is loved for its architecture, historic medieval center, lively nightlife, delicious food, and relaxed beach living. The city comes alive at night as restaurant terraces fill the streets and music pumps out of the many bars.
Barcelona is also famous for its outstanding football team, sandy beaches, and world-class cuisine. The city has a vibrant cultural heritage and colorful neighborhood festivals that attract visitors from around the world.</blockquote></i>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Wow, that is quite a lot of compliment! But does Barcelona fail to meet those expectations? I would say that the exact stats are unnecessary and what counts is the general consensus.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Since there is a full range of sectors in which we must excel isn't it somehow 'logical' that we get bad grades in some subjects? Really? Of course not! For example, we may have a lively nightlife or many wonderful hallmarks but someone might steal your watch, your wallet or your cellphone in the blink of an eye, and what's worse, you might have to undergo a third degree interrogation and suffer all the useless police paperwork later on. This point does not meet expectations at all. It is hard to start the post with such negative remarks but it is not enough with tourists opening their eyes and looking after their belongings as they are told incessantly over the subway loudspeakers. It is never enough and local authorities must fix this. There are laws to enforce and measures to adopt to stop that! Some things are acceptable but insecurity is not one of them.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">As you know, the general consensus about Barcelona is more than favorable and proof of that is the increase in the amount of visitors and the big money filling in the public treasury, plus the private pockets! So everybody should be happy. But then it happens that there is a local consensus when it comes to finding responsibles for the bad management and the bad grades: "the townhall mayor is to blame" I will not say names but read my lips. The point is that changes are coming after the recent municipal elections and Barcelona citizens want solutions not only for insecurity but for the well-being of every individual be it local or foreign, living in the city or just passing by and admiring whatever good we have to offer which is a lot.</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Once said that, let's pull the curtain and restart the story with a positive attitude...</p><p style="text-align: justify;">Yes, of course, Barcelona is always more than you expect and the more you visit the more you will love it. And even though Barcelona Photoblog does not need to convince you on such matters we can show some photographs and many good reasons to discover us. Visiting another country always has its pros and cons. Let's check why Condé Nast travel specialists must have said such beautiful words:</p>
<h3 style="text-align: justify;">Why Barcelona is a Great Travel Destination</h3>
<p style="text-align: justify;">Here are just a few of the reasons:</p>
<table style="text-align: justify;">
<tbody><tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Art and architecture: Barcelona is home to some of the most iconic works of art and architecture in the world, including the <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2017/08/The-Essential-4-Things-to-do-in-Barcelona-2017-Must-See-Attractions-Barcelona-Photoblog.html" target="_blank">Sagrada Familia</a>. </li></ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAQG9gXsKZ6t4yi-qmop7YNTOuRRdO0egid24FVOZXYrGxRf1N6sRtmwRB7qBseqhnpMXpAp3U5GR-SwIyzybSMi31_9gC14qvWHoNf5O8DP6j4qvUkXSVsl_l-LYeNP9PshovOoMMDchcIzrwCtSO9PdwKWeaLZU4kAuRUs3JDOhCKcCqR4/s1600/Sagrada-Familia-Sunset-Barcelona.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1060" data-original-width="1600" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioAQG9gXsKZ6t4yi-qmop7YNTOuRRdO0egid24FVOZXYrGxRf1N6sRtmwRB7qBseqhnpMXpAp3U5GR-SwIyzybSMi31_9gC14qvWHoNf5O8DP6j4qvUkXSVsl_l-LYeNP9PshovOoMMDchcIzrwCtSO9PdwKWeaLZU4kAuRUs3JDOhCKcCqR4/s200/Sagrada-Familia-Sunset-Barcelona.jpg" width="200" /></a></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Food: Barcelona is a foodie paradise, with a wide <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2015/10/el-vaso-de-oro-authentic-la-barceloneta.html" target="_blank">variety of restaurants</a> serving everything from traditional Catalan cuisine to international fare. Be sure to try some of the city's famous tapas, which are small, savory dishes that are perfect for sharing.</li></ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm7UhkwJeda9Q693ZyF0CaHOwlKr5cnQc1CsBt-pMMuuoZJmLle7JOlL_mOWGqeCbDussHpWI0sIOE69GeK1ILEOx8DZOjQaUxb2FkmJeKmdmhZBNLfU4So6--EsuG-qR28n1g7No_m9C6qFPbzi1dQ6L6ZTOxwvYZ3vlsNZ_P1q_8GIfLYRc/s1024/El-vaso-de-oro.jpg" style="clear: left; display: block; float: left; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="678" data-original-width="1024" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm7UhkwJeda9Q693ZyF0CaHOwlKr5cnQc1CsBt-pMMuuoZJmLle7JOlL_mOWGqeCbDussHpWI0sIOE69GeK1ILEOx8DZOjQaUxb2FkmJeKmdmhZBNLfU4So6--EsuG-qR28n1g7No_m9C6qFPbzi1dQ6L6ZTOxwvYZ3vlsNZ_P1q_8GIfLYRc/s200/El-vaso-de-oro.jpg" width="200" /></a></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul>
<li>Beaches: Barcelona is located on the Mediterranean Sea, and its beaches are some of the most popular in Europe. In the summer, the beaches are packed with people sunbathing, swimming, and <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2006/11/beach-volleyball-in-barcelona.html" target="_blank">playing beach volleyball</a>.</li></ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfDDWoZuPNU-RIwIf4g0uDaBt0BUZ3cu6pUxnzihQM7-2qSSFDTBtdKAMmLkQqHtTr7-QwM9GiTTsQ5jCK8kE1UA4DRvdjy7gsPGlCxg0uPwspd9NJw8G-Xu6aqYRkv2dz4gvTW99BDG7hTf7u9MZ0JBZ3Y7zHrAgYZHBmjjlzMMPYSZw6mk/s1280/Beach%20volleyball%20in%20Barcelona.jpg" style="clear: right; display: block; float: right; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="851" data-original-width="1280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfDDWoZuPNU-RIwIf4g0uDaBt0BUZ3cu6pUxnzihQM7-2qSSFDTBtdKAMmLkQqHtTr7-QwM9GiTTsQ5jCK8kE1UA4DRvdjy7gsPGlCxg0uPwspd9NJw8G-Xu6aqYRkv2dz4gvTW99BDG7hTf7u9MZ0JBZ3Y7zHrAgYZHBmjjlzMMPYSZw6mk/s200/Beach%20volleyball%20in%20Barcelona.jpg" width="200" /></a></div></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><ul><li>Culture: Barcelona is a vibrant city with a rich culture. There are always plenty of things to see and do, from attending a <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2010/05/flamenco-fusion-dancer-la-barceloneta.html" target="_blank">flamenco show</a> to exploring the city's many museums and art galleries.</li>
</ul><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWn11NwXmRG4tRUnslhUSHIw0HEYNQmmE3ppag--nSErjNZ3lweaIS0rK7KI0KGBsfHP01WFZA9EKrUDpC7XOCh5fgTsqh056nFOzx6w-GwKHmAa7h_nS0SV7uaQQW31UqUIyxY9D5gGe93Vuk3jkWQ3SEVqNtvWYuV8utArVhPIwFWpQ5VU/s1354/Bailaora-Flamenco-Barceloneta.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="1354" data-original-width="900" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinWn11NwXmRG4tRUnslhUSHIw0HEYNQmmE3ppag--nSErjNZ3lweaIS0rK7KI0KGBsfHP01WFZA9EKrUDpC7XOCh5fgTsqh056nFOzx6w-GwKHmAa7h_nS0SV7uaQQW31UqUIyxY9D5gGe93Vuk3jkWQ3SEVqNtvWYuV8utArVhPIwFWpQ5VU/s200/Bailaora-Flamenco-Barceloneta.jpg" /></a></div></td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<h2 style="text-align: justify;">Things to Do in Barcelona</h2>
<p style="text-align: justify;">If you're planning a trip to Barcelona, here are a few of the things you should definitely add to your itinerary:</p>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Visit the Sagrada Familia: This <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2015/12/crypt-pillars-and-ceiling-at-sagrada.html" target="_blank">unfinished cathedral</a> is one of Antoni Gaudí's most famous works. It's a must-see for any architecture lover.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Explore the Gothic Quarter: <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2013/03/barri-gotic-narrow-streets-of-barcelona.html" target="_blank">This medieval neighborhood is full of narrow streets</a>, Gothic architecture, and charming shops and cafes.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Relax on the beach: In the summer, <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2006/12/barcelona-beach-ever-changing.html" target="_blank">the beaches in Barcelona</a> are a great place to relax and soak up the sun.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://museupicassobcn.cat/en" target="_blank">Visit the Picasso Museum</a>: This museum houses a large collection of <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/07/picasso-and-flamenco-dancer-in-paper.html" target="_blank">Picasso</a>'s work. It's a great place to learn about the artist's life and work.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Take a walk along the Ramblas: This famous pedestrian street is lined with shops, cafes, and <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/search/label/street%20artist" target="_blank">street performers</a>. It's a great place to people-watch and soak up the atmosphere of Barcelona.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://tablaocordobes.es" target="_blank">Attend a flamenco show</a>: Flamenco is a traditional Spanish dance that is performed to the accompaniment of guitar and song. It's a great way to experience Spanish culture.</li>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Take a <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2010/10/montserrat-mountain-detail-in-black-and.html" target="_blank">day trip to Montserrat</a>: This mountain range is located about an hour outside of Barcelona. It's a popular destination for hiking, biking, and sightseeing.</li>
</ul><div style="text-align: justify;">These are just a few of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/edit?mid=1IevL8uaox6LzBWEEwMKKl2wYHVc&ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&ll=41.37936599825457%2C2.179803999999983&spn=0.000694%2C0.001202&t=h&z=20&lci=lmc%3Awikipedia_en" target="_blank">the many things you can do in Barcelona</a>. With its stunning architecture, delicious food, vibrant nightlife, and rich culture, Barcelona is a city that has something for everyone.</div>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comBarcelona, Spain41.3873974 2.16856813.077163563821152 -32.987682 69.697631236178836 37.324818tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-10279852281251006542023-05-13T00:07:00.016+02:002023-07-11T00:32:05.549+02:00Unruled Mass Tourism or an Oasis in the Gothic Quarter?<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZUE042jmrRGDHo2PAfql_peD0hTn_8d_BXkmiZ9M04EiCWyRlJ6Sz7DyCTj_82rFSDgtY6CJfBl1Jc7oqMYHhq89Ia1V3dGLaECiXt8-ERYTkJXQsParBUobDVKgIv1oLfg3CX4teuFjkQ8Znq8LMWssrDjEBZn0XyxD_r-vZvYvSrQN_aw/s640/Mass-tourism-in-Barcelona.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="424" data-original-width="640" loading="eager" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyZUE042jmrRGDHo2PAfql_peD0hTn_8d_BXkmiZ9M04EiCWyRlJ6Sz7DyCTj_82rFSDgtY6CJfBl1Jc7oqMYHhq89Ia1V3dGLaECiXt8-ERYTkJXQsParBUobDVKgIv1oLfg3CX4teuFjkQ8Znq8LMWssrDjEBZn0XyxD_r-vZvYvSrQN_aw/s16000/Mass-tourism-in-Barcelona.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tourists in Sant Felip Neri square at Gothic quarter, Barcelona</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason. With its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious food, it's no wonder that people from all over the globe flock to this city every year.</div><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">However, <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/06/massive-tourism-in-barcelona.html" target="_blank">mass tourism</a> has its downsides. One of the biggest
problems is that it can be overwhelming. The streets of Barcelona can be packed
with people, making it difficult to move around or even find a place to sit
down. This can be especially frustrating for those who are looking for a more
peaceful and relaxing experience.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If you're looking for a way to escape the <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2008/10/las-ramblas-most-frequented-street-in.html" target="_blank">hustle and bustle of mass tourism</a>, the Gothic Quarter is the perfect place for you. This historic
district is located in the heart of Barcelona, and it's home to narrow streets,
winding alleyways, and charming squares. It's the perfect place to wander
aimlessly and get lost in the beauty of the city. Or was it?<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Of course, the Gothic Quarter is <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2017/11/mass-tourism-in-barcelona-and-catalan-crisis-according-to-media.html" target="_blank">not immune to mass tourism</a>.
However, it's much less crowded than other parts of Barcelona, and it's easy to
find quiet spots to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. If you're looking for a
more authentic Barcelona experience, the Gothic Quarter is the place to be.
Unless you come across scenes like the one above which can happen every now and
then when cruise ships unleash heavy loads of adventurous ‘predators’ on a
hunting spree around the already strained city.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Nonetheless, let us look on the bright side of life! Here
are some tips for enjoying the Gothic Quarter without the crowds:<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<ul style="margin-top: 0cm;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Visit
during the off-season. The Gothic Quarter is most crowded during the
summer months, so if you can, try to visit during the spring or fall.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Get
up early. The Gothic Quarter is much quieter in the morning before the
crowds arrive.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Explore
the side streets. The main streets of the Gothic Quarter are always
crowded, but if you venture off the beaten path, you'll find much quieter
areas.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Visit
during the week. The Gothic Quarter is busier on weekends, so if you can,
try to visit during the week.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Take
a break from the crowds. If you're feeling overwhelmed by the crowds, take
a break from the Gothic Quarter and explore other parts of Barcelona.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The Gothic Quarter is a beautiful and historic district
that's well worth a visit. By following these tips, you can enjoy the Gothic
Quarter without the crowds and experience the best of Barcelona.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">However, no one said that escaping the stark reality by
sticking one’s head in Barri Gotic like an ostrich in the sand is the final solution
to our problems with tourism. Pretending not to see that Barcelona is losing
its balance by suggesting visitors to spot an empty oasis is to do a favor to
the apathy and incompetence of our local authorities.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">If we want to enjoy the beauty of Barcelona streets doing
justice to the peaceful atmosphere that its inhabitants had in mind when they
built it then we should see that there are strict rules and laws to punish the
bad actors so we can be good hosts to our visitors as we always have been.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"></p><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH4Da9DQs3IQ0ajTBBksJPs1j4m7blpJYN8BwzdbZiW422DztMEWqBXApnUTub8ROyasV3FiDCuPkqFAZutf8lhb9jtpkSXcBRtXT9Re2YKCFgLYlmeXemzWG1rPT_NU-agUy2vsAEtSFcUfhJ-QH9viNJMWZPVukVYBW0XMJaHMHlF0HPBV8/s966/Quiet-Gothic-Quarter-Streets.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="966" data-original-width="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH4Da9DQs3IQ0ajTBBksJPs1j4m7blpJYN8BwzdbZiW422DztMEWqBXApnUTub8ROyasV3FiDCuPkqFAZutf8lhb9jtpkSXcBRtXT9Re2YKCFgLYlmeXemzWG1rPT_NU-agUy2vsAEtSFcUfhJ-QH9viNJMWZPVukVYBW0XMJaHMHlF0HPBV8/s16000/Quiet-Gothic-Quarter-Streets.jpg" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entrance to Sant Felip Neri square, Gothic quarter, Barcelona</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><p></p>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comPlaça de Sant Felip Neri, 08002 Barcelona, Spain41.3834056 2.175058313.073171763821158 -32.9811917 69.693639436178842 37.3313083tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-21136594849418311252023-05-05T01:59:00.018+02:002023-07-11T00:32:20.920+02:00How Artificial Intelligence is Transforming Barcelona<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmxk_C3NxwiGX_gJVKSIsi0_gGu5WDkVG4QE_wGKq6YCpXqPxAEFogj1kOMYk4ZrkHKS4JYVz3HSVBsPaPJJ6Inz5UsNtbkilpwxqGVlMh6bgKfKAAAE35fiuk1OoqyIRccEXi7eo6FxmfPIomVd6FkN3jiB75VUViDWpx1-q7eh78Xrztk8/s1024/_5c2b7c93-242b-4fb2-b1b3-ef45566fd677.jpg" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img alt="AI in Barcelona: The Future" border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="1024" loading="eager" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicmxk_C3NxwiGX_gJVKSIsi0_gGu5WDkVG4QE_wGKq6YCpXqPxAEFogj1kOMYk4ZrkHKS4JYVz3HSVBsPaPJJ6Inz5UsNtbkilpwxqGVlMh6bgKfKAAAE35fiuk1OoqyIRccEXi7eo6FxmfPIomVd6FkN3jiB75VUViDWpx1-q7eh78Xrztk8/s16000/_5c2b7c93-242b-4fb2-b1b3-ef45566fd677.jpg" width="640" /></span></a></div><span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /><b><br /></b></span><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">Barcelona is a city that embraces innovation and creativity, and artificial intelligence (AI) is no exception. In recent years, Barcelona has become a hub for AI research and development, attracting talent, investment and projects from all over the world.</div><p style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">One of the reasons why Barcelona is such a hotbed for AI is because of its strong academic and research institutions. The city is home to two of the top universities in Spain: the Universitat de Barcelona and the Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya. These universities have strong programs in computer science, mathematics, and engineering, which are all essential for AI research.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In addition to its academic institutions, Barcelona is also home to a number of AI startups. These startups are developing a variety of AI-powered products and services, including healthcare applications, financial services applications, and marketing applications.</span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;"> <span style="font-family: inherit;">Barcelona is also a popular destination for AI talent from around the world. The city is known for its relaxed lifestyle, its Mediterranean climate, and its vibrant culture. These factors make Barcelona an attractive place to live and work for AI professionals.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">In this blog post, I will explore some of the ways in which AI is transforming Barcelona, from improving public services and urban mobility, to fostering ethical and inclusive use of data and algorithms.</span></p><p> <span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>AI for public services and urban mobility</b></span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One of the main goals of Barcelona's digital strategy is to use AI to improve public services and urban mobility, making the city more efficient, sustainable and responsive to citizens' needs. For example, Barcelona is using AI to optimize waste management, traffic control, public transport, energy consumption and air quality. Some of the projects that illustrate this are:</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Nennisiwok Artificial Intelligence Lab, a company that develops AI solutions for smart cities, such as a system that uses computer vision and deep learning to detect and classify waste in real time, helping to reduce littering and increase recycling rates.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Microsoft's R&D hub in Spain, focused on applying AI models to improve user experience on the web. The hub is located in Barcelona and is part of Microsoft's WebXT division, which contributes to the development of multiple products, including Windows, Azure and Bing.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- LOGISTAR, a European project that uses AI to optimize the European supply chain, reducing costs, emissions and congestion. The project involves several partners from Spain, including the Artificial Intelligence Research Institute (IIIA-CSIC), which is based in Barcelona and conducts basic research in AI.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">AI for ethics and inclusion</span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Another key aspect of Barcelona's digital strategy is to promote the ethical and inclusive use of AI, ensuring that data and algorithms respect citizens' digital rights and do not discriminate or harm anyone. To achieve this, Barcelona has developed several initiatives, such as:</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- The Municipal strategy on algorithms and data to ethically drive artificial intelligence, a government measure that lays down the mechanisms for applying AI to municipal management and services while respecting citizens' digital rights. The measure includes principles such as transparency, accountability, privacy, security, diversity and non-discrimination.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- The Decidim platform, an open source software that enables participatory democracy and collective intelligence. The platform uses AI to analyze and cluster citizens' proposals, comments and votes, facilitating deliberation and decision making.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- The WeNet project, a European project that aims to create a platform for social networking based on diversity-aware AI. The project involves several partners from Spain, including IIIA-CSIC, which leads the research on diversity-aware machine learning.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><b><span style="font-family: inherit;">AI for creativity and culture</span></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Finally, Barcelona is also using AI to foster creativity and culture, enhancing the city's artistic and cultural heritage with innovative technologies. Some of the examples of this are:</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Play & Sing, a project that uses AI to help people with brain injuries recover their musical abilities. The project is led by IIIA-CSIC in collaboration with Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Gutenberg y ChatGPT, a project that uses AI to generate interactive stories based on classic literature. The project is developed by IIIA-CSIC in collaboration with Universitat Pompeu Fabra.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">- Numerales, a project that uses AI to create numerical art based on mathematical concepts. The project is developed by IIIA-CSIC in collaboration with Escola Massana.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Artificial Intelligence is transforming Barcelona in many ways, making it a smarter, more sustainable, more democratic and more creative city. Barcelona is committed to being at the forefront of AI innovation, while ensuring that it serves the common good and respects human dignity.</span></p><p style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">As AI continues to grow, Barcelona is well-positioned to become a global leader in the field. The city has all of the ingredients necessary for success: strong academic institutions, a vibrant startup scene, and a talented workforce.</span></p>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-42407295414445618602022-09-12T18:18:00.008+02:002023-07-12T19:13:47.679+02:00Sant Jordi Fountain Faucet at Barcelona Cathedral Cloister<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-WTm6RNXfDpeSev8b3-DLmF5l1eQyr-1CX888oXri3sGzbpvArx410GuIBcig1XAnd533bsWTPYTL_rvxKvKWQoSjB-b530edyACW-3J27RHDPt7W05q-NPi-520l3BncBTVktxXUDtz-zImk47dxOwH4VDSw-zDeSJ8nddKKr6G_ZFFP5jk/s1359/Cloister%20of%20Barcelona%20Cathedral%20Fountain%20Tap%20or%20Faucet%20-%20Sant%20Jordi%20Fountain.jpg"
style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" ><img border="0" data-original-height="1359" data-original-width="900" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-WTm6RNXfDpeSev8b3-DLmF5l1eQyr-1CX888oXri3sGzbpvArx410GuIBcig1XAnd533bsWTPYTL_rvxKvKWQoSjB-b530edyACW-3J27RHDPt7W05q-NPi-520l3BncBTVktxXUDtz-zImk47dxOwH4VDSw-zDeSJ8nddKKr6G_ZFFP5jk/s16000/Cloister%20of%20Barcelona%20Cathedral%20Fountain%20Tap%20or%20Faucet%20-%20Sant%20Jordi%20Fountain.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /> <br /><br / > <br / > <div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">La <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Font_de_Sant_Jordi_-_Claustre_de_la_Catedral_de_Barcelona_01.JPG" target="_blank">Font de Sant Jordi</a> (Saint George Fountain), of which Barcelona Photoblog brings you this faucet detail, is one of the most renown fountains in the city as it is part of the impressive cloister at Barcelona Cathedral, perhaps the second most visited sacred place after Sagrada Familia. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Although the gothic Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, built in 150 years, is appealing enough once you set foot on the main nave it wouldn't be that remarkable without its cloister, a well-balanced quiet place, where light, water plants, magnolias, palm trees, geese and medieval fountains create that utmost joyous design that we now prefer to call feng shui. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">The fountain as such, crowned by a 1970 figure (by Emili Colom) of Sant Jordi on his horse on top of a mossy rock, was built under the supervision of architect Andreu Escuder in 1449. Nevertheless, the water was spouting here directly from the mountain of Collserola since 1356. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">This octogonal shaped architectural piece is no ordinary fountain, not only because of these beautiful faucets with intriguing faces that might as well represent archangels or demons on whose rump a small kid figure seems to be riding a bird or a horse (this can be the subject of rivers of ink for an unleashed imagination), but because since 1637 during every Corpus Christi Feast it is adorned with flowers and an empty egg that dances frantically on the water jet. Such tradition is known as <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2012/01/lou-com-balla-or-dancing-egg-barcelona.html" target="_blank">L'ou com balla</a> (previous post).</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here are some <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Saint_George_fountain_(Cloister_of_Cathedral_of_Barcelona)" target="_blank">more pictures of the Fountain of Sant Jordi</a>.</div>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comPla de la Seu, s/n, 08002 Barcelona, Spain41.383962 2.176199113.073728163821151 -32.9800509 69.694195836178835 37.3324491tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-42465778053013336342021-12-21T21:26:00.001+01:002021-12-21T21:28:17.060+01:00Bubble Dreams Under an Arch of Triumph<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnf2FmmN3UqWJMdMj0i4ur9MrvzcXMg71LnO_eqs9RUenxslEgCvZ6dBB-rO6ENbyU1Es4bLju2ew66-WL4eJT2LbOD5LdXISu_VihbqU-p3gOTi_nSDB6Yim1mVkWCyvcrwIrgoZ5sB6km5VvRhBP26jrFuMeBXyEOdOqdzGFPTW3qpW9_G8" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="Children playing with soap bubbles in Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1218" data-original-width="720" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEhnf2FmmN3UqWJMdMj0i4ur9MrvzcXMg71LnO_eqs9RUenxslEgCvZ6dBB-rO6ENbyU1Es4bLju2ew66-WL4eJT2LbOD5LdXISu_VihbqU-p3gOTi_nSDB6Yim1mVkWCyvcrwIrgoZ5sB6km5VvRhBP26jrFuMeBXyEOdOqdzGFPTW3qpW9_G8" width="640" /></a></div>
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Dreaming is one of those things that you can grow for free in your particular world of Oz beyond that yellow brick road. You could add a beautiful <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2010/02/arch-of-triumph-celestial-trumpets.html" target="_blank">arch of triumph</a> at the end and why not, some mesmerizing <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2008/04/bubblebou-show-by-pep-bou-port-aventura.html" target="_blank">bubbles</a> through which you can look at the future with joy. Perhaps it is all as simple as that. The end of the year is coming and it is time to detach from all the noise, look at what is right in front of you in awe and let yourself go, the child way.<div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2hpgpfFSUAKzNvgQxR-dUiy26TknuLQ_J61cWk7E95r7U_IoXVHabv61a1XSH9daENGwsdM_IHDtd992c5h_YlSEEsrHF0lX_fHLAJh9dpg12AVwZGIwxMkoq_mBOn-uWuQCTk_A4DcjH1xNjQlWVoL40NIG7tauX4CdZQlhz9XCODtTrYkQ" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="Arch of Triumph and Modernist Lamp in Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEj2hpgpfFSUAKzNvgQxR-dUiy26TknuLQ_J61cWk7E95r7U_IoXVHabv61a1XSH9daENGwsdM_IHDtd992c5h_YlSEEsrHF0lX_fHLAJh9dpg12AVwZGIwxMkoq_mBOn-uWuQCTk_A4DcjH1xNjQlWVoL40NIG7tauX4CdZQlhz9XCODtTrYkQ" width="640" /></a></div>
</div>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comPasseig de Lluís Companys, 08003 Barcelona, Spain41.3910524 2.180644913.080818563821154 -32.9756051 69.701286236178845 37.3368949tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-43873412315957065482021-08-22T03:45:00.013+02:002021-08-25T02:32:23.341+02:00Beasts of Barcelona - The Lion - El Lleo de la Ciutat <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EVa7t0kPKx4/YSGWo3blqZI/AAAAAAAAUso/xI4qfyaoFDkgw3P9OMrf92KUyNb2PXLxwCLcBGAsYHQ/s1359/The-Lion-El-lleo-de-la-ciutat.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="The lion of Barcelona - Beasts of the city" border="0" data-original-height="1359" data-original-width="900" height="954" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EVa7t0kPKx4/YSGWo3blqZI/AAAAAAAAUso/xI4qfyaoFDkgw3P9OMrf92KUyNb2PXLxwCLcBGAsYHQ/w632-h954/The-Lion-El-lleo-de-la-ciutat.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /><p></p><div style="text-align: justify;">What better to resume Barcelona Photoblog's posting than showing one of the leading figures in our festivities and an important member of the <b>bestiari</b>, a Catalan term to refer to a group of real and imaginary animals of Medieval origins mainly associated to Corpus processions. The lion represented Mark the Evangelist and the Eagle, Saint John. Both 'beasts' are also part of <a href="https://www.wikiwand.com/ca/Seguici_Popular_de_la_Ciutat_de_Barcelona" target="_blank">El Seguici de la Ciutat</a>. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Together with the <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/09/giants-in-catalonia-eagle.html" target="_blank">Eagle</a>, the Lion (Lleó) is always presiding over the parades, especially during Corpus, La Mercè or Santa Eulalia. Our particular king of the jungle, or at least, the first impersonations made by men wearing costumes, date back to the fifteenth century and it is not till 1600s that it appears as it is today. He was completely gone during most part of the last century until his stellar reappearance back in the 90s. Franco's regime was not very fond of rescuing Catalan traditions. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Of course parading the animal is adorned by its own dance and music, The Dance of the Lion. There used to be roaring, many years ago, but Charles III forbid such ignominious noisy doings to the disillusionment of our citizens.
We have to thank local groups like Associació d'Amics dels Gegants del Pi for the initiative of bringing back the Lion in 1993. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Maybe some other day I write more about other fantastic beasts that run wild in our imagination thanks to the magic of our cultural heritage, the Catalan folklore. I leave you with the manes of a ferocious and yet gentle beast that I want to dedicate to all those born a Leo, like this humble blogger. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">PS: Do not forget to visit <a href="https://www.lacasadelsentremesos.cat/" target="_blank">La Casa dels Entremesos</a> to see replicas of the bestiari.</div>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comBarcelona, Spain41.3850639 2.173403513.074830063821153 -32.9828465 69.695297736178844 37.3296535tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-17268679041908397332021-04-15T23:22:00.001+02:002021-04-16T11:56:50.091+02:00Barcelona. A Day. A Life. ~ A Short Film by Ben Holbrook<div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKrIcSlxVyk/YHirOkJFIzI/AAAAAAAATdk/rZGba8OwPikqdFDbr7znIeo4EGBeH5cMACLcBGAsYHQ/s1920/A-Day.-A-Life.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1080" data-original-width="1920" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eKrIcSlxVyk/YHirOkJFIzI/AAAAAAAATdk/rZGba8OwPikqdFDbr7znIeo4EGBeH5cMACLcBGAsYHQ/w640-h360/A-Day.-A-Life.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Lockdown has been tough on us all, but especially for those of us who have not been able to get our fix of Barcelona! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It’s been one of the longest periods of time I’ve not been able to visit since moving there all those years ago, and I miss it so much. It may not be my physical home anymore, but it’s still my spiritual home. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I miss the simple act of heading out with no agenda and no destination, following the crowds and wandering like a flaneur. There’s always something going on, always somewhere to be – experiences to be lived! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">For this reason I almost always kept my camera with me. Not only to take photos for my blog, <a href="https://www.driftwoodjournals.com/" target="_blank">Driftwood Journals</a>, but also simply because I knew the amazing was always just around the corner! </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As well as photos, I also shot quite a bit of video between 2017 and 2019. But I didn’t have the time (or skills) to do anything with it. Fast forward to now, 2021, and I have had time not only to develop my video editing skills but also to produce an entire short film using this old footage. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It starts early morning on the rooftops of Eixample and move through the city as day becomes night. The final scenes are the insanely explosive celebrations of La Merce (I was so involved in the action that my lens got blown up by a firework – true story!). </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">It’s sort of “a day in the life”, but the footage was taken over many years, so it’s more like a whole life – my life. Maybe you’ll recognise it as your own. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Here it is, amigos! Watch and enjoy! This is Barcelona. A Day. A Life.</div>
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<div align="center"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mgddXLzMVDU" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></div>
<div><br /></div><br /><div> Discover “Ben’s Barcelona” on <a href="https://www.driftwoodjournals.com/category/europe/living-in-spain-blog-moving-to-spain/barcelona-travel-guide-and-barcelona-travel-blog/" target="_blank">his blog</a> and watch more of his short films on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpSqbWD4W5qgXoE4Jqa5yFg" target="_blank">Youtube</a>.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VOcxe5bcPHM/YHisjyaxJDI/AAAAAAAATds/_QYCPYNQ7UYdEU-v_t7vW0Ua9l0fgYgkACLcBGAsYHQ/s2048/Barcelona.-A-Day.-A-Life%2B-%2BA%2BBen%2BHolbrook%2BFilm.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1448" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VOcxe5bcPHM/YHisjyaxJDI/AAAAAAAATds/_QYCPYNQ7UYdEU-v_t7vW0Ua9l0fgYgkACLcBGAsYHQ/w283-h400/Barcelona.-A-Day.-A-Life%2B-%2BA%2BBen%2BHolbrook%2BFilm.jpg" width="283" /></a></div><br /><div><br /></div>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-72791649720391838852021-04-06T02:28:00.005+02:002021-04-06T02:34:55.621+02:00Sant Andreu Tapas A Succulent Remedy<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2YtQzoRCMdk/YGuPLmcN2zI/AAAAAAAATbk/kpQyk6P6OcAk_Wj5DTRXPN7HRr40CexVgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1298/Sant-Andreu-quarter---Barcelona.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1298" data-original-width="600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2YtQzoRCMdk/YGuPLmcN2zI/AAAAAAAATbk/kpQyk6P6OcAk_Wj5DTRXPN7HRr40CexVgCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Sant-Andreu-quarter---Barcelona.jpg" /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Sometimes not only vaccines are the remedy that can save you from the havoc in your head wreaked by a year of seclusion, dying like a sparrow in a cage. Sometimes the cure, the mental relief, comes with the satisfaction of the animal in us, our primeval instincts. No, I do not mean sex. Don't be so basic! It's the food that kindles your soul, like a sun ray breaking through your prison cell.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">And so, being a refined animal with a taste and on a spring parole in the way of lockdown break, I set sail for promising quarters in the city of Barcelona where nourishment abounds, the oasis of tapas known as the Sant Andreu neighborhood. Behold above its renown narrow streets dressed in <a href="https://www.barcelona.cat/infobarcelona/en/local-people-in-sant-andreu-turn-their-oranges-into-marmalade_1041932.html" target="_blank">bitter orange groves</a> more typical of the sacred gardens of paradise than from a working class enclave. Nothing like some peace and quiet to go and sin for a while.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">As you can see my mind is obscured after so much confinement and is hard to hit the bar that explains the tasty tapa of morcilla de Burgos and the cheek pads hamburger (mollete de carrilleras) on the menu at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bar.torrente/?hl=en" target="_blank">Bar Torrente</a> of Carrer de Parellada, 28, 08030 Barcelona.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I never said it was easy to share the secret troves of a Barcelonian but believe me, everything has been so lonely lately that the city misses the usual buzz (not the noise!) and bar owners well deserve to get their lives back so the more we are the merrier. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks to Bar Torrente for the marvelous sinful day! </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5p2VxKUYoqY/YGuPOh39rTI/AAAAAAAATbs/LSdpgDQa11Y1HsoUp2SpCyTcOsyDJsKUQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1298/Burgos-Morcilla-or-Black-Pudding---Bar-Torrente---Sant-Andreu---Barcelona.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1298" data-original-width="600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5p2VxKUYoqY/YGuPOh39rTI/AAAAAAAATbs/LSdpgDQa11Y1HsoUp2SpCyTcOsyDJsKUQCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Burgos-Morcilla-or-Black-Pudding---Bar-Torrente---Sant-Andreu---Barcelona.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-73qNyv7ysq0/YGuPOpPkKaI/AAAAAAAATbo/BwOtTddoN5QNm8MP2_2ANX4mpDNnf4b8ACLcBGAsYHQ/s640/Pork-Cheek-Hamburger---Bar-Torrente---Sant-Andreu---Barcelona.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="296" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-73qNyv7ysq0/YGuPOpPkKaI/AAAAAAAATbo/BwOtTddoN5QNm8MP2_2ANX4mpDNnf4b8ACLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Pork-Cheek-Hamburger---Bar-Torrente---Sant-Andreu---Barcelona.jpg" /></a></div><br /> <p></p>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comCarrer de Parellada, 28, 08030 Barcelona, Spain41.4329976 2.193468515.353866847475988 -32.9627815 67.512128352524016 37.3497185tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-76866234403715960272021-02-08T17:54:00.005+01:002021-02-08T19:11:51.186+01:00Sant Pau Hospital: A History of Fervent Passion and Anonymous Endeavor<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGR6dVZ1_MQ/YCFce3HXxvI/AAAAAAAATVs/GhdPuw9qleY5QYUKcnKQE16QyUcthYd-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s2608/Sant%2BPau-Hospital-Shield-Cartagena-st-Barcelona.jpg" alt="Sant Pau shield detail at Cartagena street entrance" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1205" data-original-width="2608" alt ="Sant Pau hospital detail a history of passion and endeavor" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SGR6dVZ1_MQ/YCFce3HXxvI/AAAAAAAATVs/GhdPuw9qleY5QYUKcnKQE16QyUcthYd-ACLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Sant%2BPau-Hospital-Shield-Cartagena-st-Barcelona.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;">Amidst the weird silence imposed by this pandemic disgrace, these stone marvels strike us as significant reminders of past religious devotion, of saints like <a href="https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Eulalia_of_Barcelona" target="_blank">Santa Eulalia</a> (hanging up there on this side of the Modernist compound of Sant Pau Hospital - Cartagena street façade), of the fervent passion and disinterested endeavor of women and men who invested their lives in that of others not only to seek salvation but out of pure love for their peers.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5-XBDGC6kU/YCFce0_NuaI/AAAAAAAATVk/95Pu0EJc9DQlVzODaFKWLoahJ88lEKc4wCLcBGAsYHQ/s2576/Sant%2BPau-Hospital-Shield-Santa%2BEulalia-Cartagena-st-Barcelona.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" alt="Sant Pau Hospital" data-original-height="1188" data-original-width="2576" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z5-XBDGC6kU/YCFce0_NuaI/AAAAAAAATVk/95Pu0EJc9DQlVzODaFKWLoahJ88lEKc4wCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Sant%2BPau-Hospital-Shield-Santa%2BEulalia-Cartagena-st-Barcelona.jpg" width="640" /></a></div> <div style="text-align: justify;">Thanks to the skillful hands of Catalan artists who set out to venerate these acts of faith against the wrath of merciless plagues, against the paradox of so much suffering cast upon the human race, we can remember them and resume this endless fight on the very places where we once perished. </div> <div></div><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n7sy6FHED9g/YCFceyc3uPI/AAAAAAAATVo/gA27R4hu4hMKM2canabzbSfrUf4cMpQFwCLcBGAsYHQ/s2608/Sant-Pau-Spire-and-Iron-work.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2608" data-original-width="1205" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n7sy6FHED9g/YCFceyc3uPI/AAAAAAAATVo/gA27R4hu4hMKM2canabzbSfrUf4cMpQFwCLcBGAsYHQ/s16000/Sant-Pau-Spire-and-Iron-work.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">From here we, your descendants. shall honor your lives and rise on our knees to overcome this Covid mess, just like you banished your misfortune one day, in unison and anonymously for the sake of our fellow men. </div><br /><br /><br /><p></p>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comCarrer de Cartagena, 321, 08025 Barcelona, Spain41.4113425 2.173935541.410537863916133 2.1728626163940428 41.412147136083874 2.1750083836059568tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-77698337090937939872020-11-28T23:55:00.001+01:002023-07-03T19:19:21.328+02:00Alice of Penelles - Foxx and Zeso, LLeida <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kQU5YdsipYs/X8LMK-Gn9RI/AAAAAAAASuY/BUVaS_b8_cwa04qNl2OpLvSWl82l1gCygCLcBGAsYHQ/s0/Alice%2Bof%2BPenelles%2Bby%2BFoxx%2B-%2BZeso-2017.jpg" style="display: block; 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<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">About 130 kms away from Barcelona, in the neighboring western province of Lleida in Catalonia, there is this little oasis of street art where almost every house is a public mural joyously adorned with graffiti.
This town is called Penelles. I took pictures there a long time ago but never took the time to share it with you, not that I remember (I must be going nuts with these pandemic times). Not only do you find local ideas over there but also the work of international artists like the New Yorker or better said Long Islander <a href="https://bkompleted.com/" target="_blank">BKFOXX</a> and the French <a href="https://gramho.com/profile/zesoner/529265475" target="_blank">@zesoner</a> who in unison delighted us with this wonderful and realistic Alice about to lead us through the rabbit burrow in the very corner of these two walls.</div>
</div>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comPenelles, Lleida, Spain41.7572239 0.9659384000000000917.223708873960128 -34.1903116 66.290738926039865 36.1221884tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-40477906997848312482020-10-14T01:56:00.017+02:002023-06-25T20:07:57.709+02:00Casa Batllo, a Visionary Project by Gaudi<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ldprIo3-fAE/X4Xib33wlxI/AAAAAAAASq4/4GqbwCHVO4oBxMR_uygHvxLfoq5B102iACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/DSC_2542CASA-BATLLO-ROOF.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img alt="Casa Batllo Roof Tiles and Cross by Gaudi" border="0" data-original-height="966" data-original-width="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ldprIo3-fAE/X4Xib33wlxI/AAAAAAAASq4/4GqbwCHVO4oBxMR_uygHvxLfoq5B102iACLcBGAsYHQ/s0/DSC_2542CASA-BATLLO-ROOF.jpg" /></a></div>
<br /><div style="text-align: justify;">Behold the triumphant cross of four arms by Gaudi that symbolizes the way in which the Gospel spreads out to every corner of the known world. Notice how such geometrical perfection resembles the hilt of a sword, maybe the very sword of Saint George, piercing through the arched scales of the horrendous dragon in its quest for the tender maid that rots in an infamous castle tower on any odd well protected rock in <a href="https://www.montblancmedieval.cat/" target="_blank">Montblanc</a>, Tarragona. Just for this moment of transcendental reminiscing on the roof of Casa Batllo while watching Gaudi's magic your visit is worth the money. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">But we not only should thank Gaudi for his art here. As you know, most of the masterpieces that we admire today, are so, due to the disbursement of generous amounts of money by some unknown patron or businessman caring for his own well being. And so it was that in 1904, a well positioned family that had made a fortune in the textile industry and fostered five children bought this house at Paseo de Gracia 43. Believe it or not, Mr. and Mrs. Batllo first thought of tearing the whole place apart. No one wanted to be second best in this part of the city. Their house was in the middle of what is known today as the Apple of Discord, a small number of opulent houses off the old walls that were competing among each other to boast the best architecture in the brand new area of Ensanche. We have to say that hiring Gaudi was the most visionary decision of their lives and so we have to thank them on behalf of Barcelona and art. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Other buildings in the Block or Apple of Discord have been dealt with in this blog in the past: The <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2008/07/detail-of-casa-lle-morera-at-passeig-de.html" target="_blank">Lleó Morera house</a> (1902) by Montaner and the <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2006/07/casa-amatller-window-detail-modernisme.html" target="_blank">Amatller house</a> (1888) by Puig and Cadafalch. </div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">I took many other pictures but I leave you with this appetizer as I plan to save the rest for some other topics that elaborate on the famous history of Casa Batllo. Meet me there and thanks for dropping by after all the silence.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;">Check here <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2011/01/casa-batllo-masked-balconies.html" target="_blank">Casa Batllo's Mask-Shaped Balconies</a> in a previous Barcelona Photoblog post.</div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"><br /><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Cn5_72ToyWo" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comPasseig de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona, Spain41.3917 2.16491812.592416120514628 -32.991332 70.190983879485373 37.321168tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-10914778292397111792020-05-08T13:06:00.000+02:002020-05-08T13:06:07.153+02:00Spotted by Locals Barcelona<br />
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Every year, blog network <b>Spotted by Locals</b> asks their locals in 80 cities to choose their favorite blogs. As in the last few years, Barcelona Photoblog was included in the list of “<a href="https://www.spottedbylocals.com/barcelona/best-barcelona-blogs/" target="_blank">Best Barcelona blogs</a>” for this year!
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Here’s a selection of 5 of the <a href="https://www.spottedbylocals.com/barcelona/" target="_blank">Spotted by Locals Barcelona</a> locals’ favorite spots. Many more on the blog, or in the app.
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Surf House Barcelona - Good vibrations</h2>
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Surf House Barcelona (by Ilse de Ridder)
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Barcelona is a city with a laid back vibe. No wonder it is home to skaters and – with a beach in town – many surfers. Barceloneta is a true hotspot with many places to rent surfboards and gear to give it a go. No wonder this neighbourhood is the place to be for <a href="https://www.spottedbylocals.com/barcelona/surf-house-barcelona/" target="_blank">Surf House Barcelona</a>, a definite favourite in town for many of us! This beach bar has amazing juices and sandwiches! Guaranteed a healthy – or if preferred a more heavy – recovery weekend brunch.
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La Llama Store - The store for humour lovers</h2>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6EFX1C21lvE/XrU2BTscbLI/AAAAAAAARw4/NhTOyzCWUf0x70D2uTJTU91di7l0FqIXgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/la-llama-store-barcelona-%2528by-gina-xifra%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: justify;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1065" data-original-width="1599" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6EFX1C21lvE/XrU2BTscbLI/AAAAAAAARw4/NhTOyzCWUf0x70D2uTJTU91di7l0FqIXgCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/la-llama-store-barcelona-%2528by-gina-xifra%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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La Llama Store (by Gina Xifra)
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<a href="https://www.spottedbylocals.com/barcelona/la-llama-store/" target="_blank">La Llama Store</a> is focused on humour through books, art and other random items. This store has an art gallery where local artists show their work so you can also buy it. Be warned: Once you end up buying something, there is a high chance that you will return and want to spend more time checking out everything that they have. Every fan of humour, comics or just looking for a laugh must visit it.
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Espai Mescladís - Gastronomy meets creativity</h2>
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Espai Mescladís (by Tatiana Martinez)
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<a href="https://www.spottedbylocals.com/barcelona/espai-mescladis/" target="_blank">Espai Mescladís</a> is very colourful restaurant, with many curious objects and a vintage feel to it. The atmosphere was very multicultural and eclectic. What makes this place so special are the people working there; Moroccans, Africans, every culture but Spanish. This restaurant was actually created as part of a social project to help integrate immigrants through educational initiatives that also facilitate social work integration. Through their program “Cuinant Oportunitats” (literally meaning cooking opportunities), the organization Fundació Ciutadania Multicultural in charge of this project manages to get many groups of immigrants who are in high risk of exclusion into the market by giving them employment.
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Sala Beckett - Walk this way for theatre</h2>
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Graffiti Art (by Carlos Domeque)
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Good contemporary theatre has to be cutting edge and Barcelona has no shortage of companies and venues that produce just that. Sala Beckett has been at the forefront of this for some time. <a href="https://www.spottedbylocals.com/barcelona/sala-becket/" target="_blank">Sala Beckett</a> is both a theatre space and centre for workshops and masterclasses. The building they now inhabit is an old neighbourhood athenaeum or cultural centre, which with a few contemporary flourishes has been restored to its former glory. Even if you decide not to catch a show there, I recommend having a look around.
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Re-read - Second-hand bookshop</h2>
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Re-read (by Andia Ago)
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<a href="https://www.spottedbylocals.com/barcelona/reread/" target="_blank">Re-read</a> is, as the name implies, a second-hand bookshop which is very welcoming, with its warm lights and stacks upon stacks of books. They are divided into categories and you can find books in many languages besides Spanish and Catalan. If you are looking for a specific book, you can use their online search engine which shows in which store you can find your book. What I usually like to do is wander around there for quite some time and pick up the books that look interesting to me.
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Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-53789414008620464802020-01-19T23:48:00.000+01:002020-01-19T23:48:10.998+01:00Casa Berenguer or Casa Clapes - A Modernist Building with a Textile Past<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cNt1mSdU9LA/XiTZfWq0K7I/AAAAAAAARlI/kSrGeqZC9qQHBfWXmJ0N899Egxi_fR1DQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Casa-Berenguer-Casa-or-Clapes-Modernist-Building-in-Barcelona.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Casa Berenguer or Casa Clapes, modernist building in Barcelona" border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="900" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cNt1mSdU9LA/XiTZfWq0K7I/AAAAAAAARlI/kSrGeqZC9qQHBfWXmJ0N899Egxi_fR1DQCLcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Casa-Berenguer-Casa-or-Clapes-Modernist-Building-in-Barcelona.jpg" title="Casa Berenguer or Casa Clapes, modernist building in Barcelona" width="640" /></a></div>
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Walking along the streets of L'Eixample Baix Esquerra (low left part of the Eixample quarter) I come across this beautiful historical restored house: <b>Casa Berenguer or Casa Clapes</b>, located exactly at 246 Diputacio carrer (street) and right in between two well known downtown busy roads, Rambla Catalunya and Balmes. </div>
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This is the story of <b>Casa Berenguer aka Clapes</b>, yet another good example of Catalan architecture: </div>
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It was the start of a century, times of prosperity, of fortunes amassed thanks to the endeavors of the Catalan bourgeoisie not only in Cuba before the war of independence but in the textile industry, the bulwark of the local economy.
Bear in mind that it was in Catalonia where the first textile machinery was imported from Great Britain and its leadership in this sector has remained till today (from the 10 top companies in the Spanish textile market 7 are Catalan).
Within this context and in combination with an artistic boom in all aspects of life, probably due to the economic bliss, distinguished families of well-being decided to hire famous architects that embarked in one of the most
remarkable urban projects of the moment in Europe. Thanks to that spirit, that capitalist greed transformed into a sudden burst of interest in art, now we can admire everyday, for free, these hallmarks of Barcelona city. </div>
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The story of Casa Berenguer begins with the Berenguer family of course and a lime factory in Altes, region of Bages. The years of dedication of Josep Berenguer Vilarasau in that factory inspired his descendants (from a family of weavers) that after his death in
1895, created a textile society called Nephews of Berenguer. The members of this society, Josep, Casimir and Francesc Clapes Berenguer bought a parcel of land from Sons of Antonio Escubos company. </div>
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It was 1905 and the Berenguers decided to
commission brothers Bassegoda i Amigo (<a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2007/02/catalan-architecture-balcony-at-plaza.html" target="_blank">Casa Bosch Alsina</a> 1891 - 1892, <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2008/01/casa-rocamora-renaissance-gothic.html" target="_blank">Casa Rocamora</a> 1914) to build a multi-family house that would hold their society headquarters and some rental apartments. The modernist house was finished in 1908. As an anecdote you should know that one of the brothers, Bonaventura Bassegoda i Amigo was a
full professor and director at <a href="https://etsab.upc.edu/en" target="_blank">ETSAB</a> (1922 - 1924), old Escuela Provincial de Arquitectura de Barcelona, founded in 1875 and first one in Catalunya. </div>
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Casa Berenguer was remodeled in 1990 by a private company that offers offices for rent. It was thanks to that meticulous renovation that we enjoy the view in the image above of this unique modernist house included in the Architectural
Heritage Catalog of the City of Barcelona. </div>
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When we approach the façade of Casa Clapes, we are attracted like bees to flowers and stand amazed at the entryway, one of those ample porticos mostly prepared for carriages, with the elaborate woodwork by Joan Busquets i Jané, famous furniture maker and decorator (1874 - 1949) in the porter's sentry box and the coffered ceiling illuminated by marvelous lamps profuse in ironwork.</div>
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Outside, over the ground level, four floors of beauty rise before us, two of them festooned with an enormous tribune or gallery in which textile
scenes abound and an upper one boasting two large balconies over which appears the image of a woman in the act of spinning. </div>
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After sharing with you, Casa Berenguer, one of the many works of our artists it is time to keep walking. Who knows what architectural troves we'll find along the way!
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Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comCarrer de la Diputació, 246, 08007 Barcelona, Spain41.3885492 2.16481829999997915.8665147 -39.14377570000002 66.9105837 43.473412299999978tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-37454385116113164912020-01-16T15:11:00.001+01:002020-01-19T00:06:17.832+01:00How Green and Sustainable is Barcelona?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What is Barcelona doing to become greener and sustainable?</div>
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After the lack of consensus in many areas during COP25 summit regarding climate change, it is clear that our governments and our citizens still have a long path ahead to mend things up before it is too late to save us from extinction in this planet which by the way will prevail with or without us. So it is quite obvious that every single measure, be it performed by an individual or by the state, counts.</div>
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Solving this existential problem is vital and requires every effort. Of course increasing green space in the city, nurturing our natural lungs is not enough if 70 % of the metropolitan area favors cars. </div>
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There is no time for the trees to absorb all that CO2 and it is more practical to cut down on cars than sowing a jungle out there. </div>
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Sometimes, the air in Barcelona is quite good, in some quarters more than others but the yearly average does not meet with recommended measures. It is not that we are one of the most polluted cities in the world, but it is rather stupid to think of the patch of atmosphere above us as an impermeable bubble. We ruin this spot and that will have repercussions all over the globe.</div>
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It is necessary that an agreement is reached and that countries stop behaving like kids. Children are often wiser I would say. </div>
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The fact that the car industry is a huge business run by not so scrupulous lobbies, happily sustained by 'greedy' consumers, not too willing to consider the battle to stop pollution as a top priority, does not mean we cannot work on putting some filters in the house in the way of green spaces scattered not only in the surroundings but in the very center of our part of the world, Barcelona in this case.</div>
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Barcelona is among the most crowded cities in Europe with a population of 1.636.762 inhabitants in a 101.35 km² surface and so there are a lot of cars. From that huge amount, 570.000 do not carry any label certifying its level of pollution because they simply are highly contaminating vehicles. This is all about to change by decree thanks to local government measures in 2020. Cars like those won't be allowed in the city anymore. </div>
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Besides this important news, there is literally an invasion of personal electric two wheel vehicles and I think things are going to get better. </div>
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But wait a minute, what about the green?! </div>
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25 % of Barcelona is covered or adorned with trees. They tend to last 50 years and there is a sort of 20 year plan, ending in 2037 to improve their quality and quantity. Take the case of plane trees, a traditional species in Barcelona. We keep them because they have been part of our culture for more than a century but they get sick more often and make people sick with their pollen. So not any tree will do. They must resist the new adversities of climate change as well.</div>
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Fortunately, we have beautiful green areas in the small hills around and inside Barcelona like <a href="https://www.barcelona.cat/en/que-hacer-en-bcn/parques-y-jardines/parc-del-guinardo_92086011954.html" target="_blank">Parc del Guinardo</a> (in the pictures), <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2006/09/panoramic-view-of-barcelona-from.html" target="_blank">Parc de Montjuic</a>, <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2011/04/forest-fire-in-collserola-mountain.html" target="_blank">Collserola Range Natural Park</a> or charming and romantic style <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2009/11/stretching-at-parc-de-la-ciutadella.html" target="_blank">Ciutadella Park</a> and <a href="https://www.barcelonaphotoblog.com/2010/05/romantic-gardens-in-europe-parc-del.html" target="_blank">Parc del Laberint</a>. </div>
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Evidently, as we emphasized at the beginning, it is difficult to filter insane proportions of CO2 and other contaminating agents by turning Barcelona into a jungle, and of course not just planting trees</div>
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without criteria, that's why we need new plans, plans for the industry and plans for green spaces in a way that we create a balanced urban ecosystem. One of the most outstanding measures regarding the latter is the <a href="https://ajuntament.barcelona.cat/ecologiaurbana/en/what-we-do-and-why/green-city-and-biodiversity/green-and-biodiversity-plan" target="_blank">Greenery and Biodiversity Plan</a> or the <a href="https://ajuntament.barcelona.cat/ecologiaurbana/en/what-we-do-and-why/urban-greenery-and-biodiversity/green-infrastructure-impetus-plan" target="_blank">Green-Infrastructure Impetus Plan</a> - Barcelona intends to have an extra 1 m² of greenery per resident by 2030!</div>
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Check here for more information on <a href="https://www.barcelona.cat/en/living-in-bcn/environment-and-sustainability" target="_blank">Barcelona environment and sustainability</a></div>
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And on January 15th, 2020 Barcelona has declared a state of climate emergency and a plan of action for the next decade that includes 100 measures and a 563.3 million euros budget. Measures will apply on seven main areas: mobility, urban planning, food, economy, energy, consumption - recycling of waste and culture - education.</div>
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These actions add up to a previous strategic plan adopted in 2018 known as the Pla Clima (<a href="https://www.barcelona.cat/barcelona-pel-clima/en/climate-plan/introduction" target="_blank">Barcelona Climate Plan</a>).</div>
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As you can see we can work on a better planet for our children. It is yet to be seen whether politicians and social agents, whether we as individuals fulfill our promises.</div>
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Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10461856.post-58956202469810838042020-01-07T00:08:00.000+01:002020-01-07T00:38:59.608+01:00La Vietnamita Sant Antoni: Best Vietnamese Restaurant in Barcelona<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today I want to recommend something different that I am sure Barcelona visitors and of course, many locals would appreciate, Vietnamese cuisine, and what better than choosing a good restaurant in the city that I have tried myself, of course. The place in particular is <b><a href="https://www.lavietnamita.com/restaurant-vietnamita-sant-antoni/" target="_blank">La Vietnamita Sant Antoni</a></b> which is part of a group of four restaurants that have been providing quality service for almost a decade to 'exotic' food lovers like us. But before I talk about my favorite Vietnamese let's explain why I go there in the first place.<br />
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Why a Vietnamese? Southeast Asian food, that is, Vietnamese or Thai food are delicious options that we often overlook in Barcelona. We tend to choose between Japanese or Chinese all the time (Korean would be the less common choice within the East Asian food group). I am no expert but in my opinion they all share some common traits, like good cousins, sort to say, but have a character of their own that would take hours to describe here. I like the way Japanese handle raw food. I like fried stuff, pork mainly, soy and ginger from the Chinese. Korean Bibimbap. Sweet and spicy flavors and coconut milk in Thai food. In fact, what I enjoy the most is sweet and spicy and I can have that in Vietnamese food plus that little extra touch of herbs like lemongrass, Vietnamese coriander, Vietnamese balm or mint, rice paddy herb, basil, lime leaves...</div>
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It is this taste and scent of herbs that captivates my senses, that harmony of natural ingredients that tells me I am enjoying quality, organic, healthy food. This really makes a difference for me and constitutes the main reason I choose Vietnamese cuisine in La Vietnamita Sant Antoni.</div>
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Last time I visited, I went with the family, wife and daughter. It is the perfect spot for family groups as there is plenty of room (there is even a playground area for kids). Space, comfort and street-style decoration is the first thing that calls your attention in fact. All four restaurants in the chain have that casual street deli food stall air that goes so well with the idea of homemade healthy cooking, respectful with nature and affordable.</div>
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And here is what I recall we ordered this time and will surely make us repeat:</div>
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<i><b>Starters</b></i>:</div>
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The <b>Nem rán</b> fried rolls that take veal, carrot, onion and noodles.<br />
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<i><b>Main course</b></i>:</div>
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1. <b>Bun Bao Burger</b> with salmon and fried yucca<br />
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2. <b>Noodle crunch</b> with shrimps, vegetables, Vietnamese herbs, coconut powder, nuts and <b>Nuoc Cham</b> fish sauce.</div>
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3. <b>Red curry</b> with coconut milk, mesclun salad, jasmine rice, chicken and peanuts (curries are fantastic!)</div>
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<i><b>Desserts</b></i>:</div>
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<b>Che chuoi</b> of tapioca pearls, coconut milk and banana. Yummy, yummy!<br />
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And last but not least, the refreshing Vietnamese lemonades or the exotic cocktails in the Mixology section. </div>
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I wouldn't want to finish without stressing that general state of well-being that accompanies you and your stomach when you include such fresh and environment respectful foods in your sustainable diet. It is time to start the year with new commitments and why not including good old wise Vietnamese cuisine to clean the path.<br />
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Carlos Lorenzohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05393873418988633512noreply@blogger.comCarrer del Comte Borrell, 85, 08015 Barcelona, Spain41.3788376 2.160506499999996815.856803099999997 -39.1480875 66.9008721 43.469100499999996