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Barcelona BeckonsPosted By: Janine Delacroix Article by Deepali Ahuja Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, is the 2nd largest city of Spain in size as well as population with over 1.5 million (est. 2004) inhabitants. Two official languages, Catalan and Castilian Spanish, are spoken here. Both these languages co-exist in this city. The history of this enchanting city goes back more than 2000 years, when it originated along the shores of the Mediterranean and the northeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula between the rivers Llobregat and Bes?s. Barcelona's history, tradition and culture are all influenced by its geographic location on the Mediterranean coast and its proximity to France. Thanks to its rich cultural and architectural history, Barcelona is one of the most exciting and dynamic cities in the world, visited by thousands of tourists year after year. It is vibrant and fun, with new things to discover every time you venture out. Day and night are both full of life and verve in this Mediterranean city. You can spend your day shopping and touring, going around the city in double decker buses or the metro. Whilst in Barcelona, you must walk along the La Rambla (also known as Las Ramblas) where five streets are entwined with one another. The energy and excitement of Las Rambas, a tree-lined pedestrian boulevard, is contagious. At night, French Gypsy and Flamenco bands play in the flood lit plazas here. Just a few blocks northeast of La Rambla, the Barri Gotic is situated that has a large number of medieval Gothic buildings. The Gothic area is a relic of the 13th and 14th century when the Catalonian Empire was a name to reckon with and Barcelona ruled the sea trade. Around the Cathedral, one of Spain's greatest Gothic buildings, a part of the ancient wall still stands that has been built into the new structures. The Barri Gotic is centered on the Pla?a de Sant Jaume, a spacious area that houses a busy market. The Ajuntament and the Palau de la Generalitat, the city's two very significant buildings are located here. The next must see site is the Museu Picasso Barcelona's most frequented museum. Located on the Carrer de Montcada, in three beautiful mansions. The museum houses some of Picasso's masterpieces. La Sagrada Familia is totally a must see in Barcelona. Antoni Gaud? the soul of architecture in Barcelona, passed away before completing this marvel. Looking at this unfinished cathedral, you feel the loss of this gifted architect, who died in the year 1926 in a tram accident. The current architect of the church plans to finish the construction by the year 2022 or latest by 2026. Barcelona boasts an enthusiastic nightlife. Discos, bars and pubs, terrace restaurants are some of the leisure choices to suit everyone. One thing is for sure, you won't be at a lost for things to do in Barcelona.
So put on your comfortable shoes and get ready for an unforgettable introduction to Spanish culture!
Deepali has traveled extensively around the world and loves to share
her experiences. More information about Barcelona can be found at: Barcelona Hotels |
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