Barcelona is a destination you don't want to miss. Play on some of the best beaches in the world, enjoy luscious parks and recreational areas, get worked into a lather at international sport tournaments, and discover secrets of world-reknowned historical buildings and museums.
Me? I went to Barcelona for the awesome architecture!
What amazed me were the gorgeous buildings that dot the city. Not just the most popular tourist attractions, but exquisite structures that get less attention. On their way to work, people walk past these places without taking notice. They're just part of the everyday landscape where they live.
I marveled at the buildings, grabbed my camera and captured their beauty. All of these buildings were photographed within a short walk from La Sagrada Familia, which is a Barcelona landmark and World Heritage site.
Me? I went to Barcelona for the awesome architecture!
What amazed me were the gorgeous buildings that dot the city. Not just the most popular tourist attractions, but exquisite structures that get less attention. On their way to work, people walk past these places without taking notice. They're just part of the everyday landscape where they live.
I marveled at the buildings, grabbed my camera and captured their beauty. All of these buildings were photographed within a short walk from La Sagrada Familia, which is a Barcelona landmark and World Heritage site.
This opulent facade is an expression of the power and prestige of its owner.
Cathedral influenced by the Gothic architectural style.
Gothic architecture, which evolved from Romanesque architecture, arrived in Spain in the 12th century as a result of influence from other European countries, especially France. Its characteristics include the pointed arch, the ribbed vault, and the flying buttress.
Architectural styles were combined with traditional cultural design elements to create unique buildings.
Detail of an exquisite upscale residence on Carrer de Valencia.
Decorative iron railings and ornate plasterwork adorn the building above. Many buildings in Barcelona have offices and shops on the ground level and apartments above.
Notice the organic Modernisme elements that were incorporated into this edifice.
In the late 19th century, Barcelona experienced a burst of architectural creativity known as the Catalan Modernisme movement. This style, which used organic forms for inspiration, was a significant departure from previous architectural styles.
La Sagrada Familia was designed by the brilliant architect Antoni Gaudi in the Catalan Modernisme style.
La Sagrada Familia, one of Barcelona's gems, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site because of its unique, innovative, and artistic architecture. Construction of the basilica began in 1882 and is expected to be completed in 2026. When construction is finished it will be the tallest religious building in Europe. When you visit Barcelona, make this Number 1 on your "Must See" list.
Beautiful ironwork detail and marble pilasters decorate this massive entrance on an otherwise ordinary Barcelona street.
The architecture was astounding, breathtaking, phenomenal! Wandering around the city, getting the flavor of life here, was equally fascinating. Europe is so European. That's why I love it so much! It's not the United States. The customs and pace of life are completely different. The people are wonderful, and contrary to what you might think, many of them don't speak English. So ramp up your Spanish language skills and come on over!
You'll find tiny fruit and vegetable stores on almost every city block. There's also at least one baked-goods shop on each block, with delicioso croissants!
Motorcycles and mopeds are everywhere. You have to keep a sharp eye out when crossing the street so you don't get run over.
Flowers burst out of the store and onto the sidewalk.
Many bars, shops, and restaurants (not in food-prep areas) are dog-friendly. Fido can even travel on the metro and local trains.
Every street corner has cozy outdoor seating for evening drinks and food. Perfect for romance! Spanish people are intensely social and take every opportunity to sit with their friends and family to dine al fresco.
Pouring at Teoric Taverna Gastronomica.
I'll let you in on a secret: Teoric Taverna Gastronomica is a wonderful little tapas bar just off Carrer de Valencia. When I visited, it had been open just six months and hadn't yet been discovered by the masses. The owners, Teo and Ori, offer highly original tapas using locally sourced ingredients. And the menu is amazing!
Olives with vermouth and orange. Duck, turnip and plum tacos. Life is an adventure--run with it!
Seasonal vegetables and cheese toast. Not like any cheese toast I ate as a kid!
Go to Barcelona. Go to Teoric. You'll need a reservation. Check out their website. It will make you hungry. http://teoric.cat/
Click here to read La Sagrada Familia
Click here to read La Sagrada Familia
