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Located in the northeast corner of Spain, Barcelona is a favorite destination for Americans due to its vibrant spirit, its romantic architecture, its location near the sea and its wealth of things to see and do. Most people fly directly into Barcelona. The capital of Cataluña, Barcelona has a very distinct character and is home to a proud people. Friendly and helpful, the locals enjoy sharing their culture with visitors. Sundays in the main squares there are public demonstrations of the sardana, a colorful circle dance. The Catalan language is the official language and is evident in all the street signs. See all properties in this region.
The
city is dynamic with evidence of recent growth while still maintaining
its historic heritage. The Olympic games held here in 1992
resulted in major development of the city, and pedestrian access
to the pretty harbor is a benefit enjoyed by all. The Gothic Quarter
with its 12-15th century buildings has been restored and is a wonderful
area to explore. Las Ramblas, the most famous street in Barcelona,
borders the Gothic area and is a broad promenade lined with plane
trees. At any time of the day or night, people stroll along
stopping for a drink, a snack, to purchase flowers from a stall or
to check the newsstands for the latest events. It is an invigorating
place to be. Enjoyment of art and architecture is a major activity in Barcelona. The
city is famous for its modernist architecture developed between 1890
and 1920. The works of Gaudí adorn the city. Even those
unfamiliar with this architect, will be taken under his spell. Strolling
along the Passeig de Gràcia, one sees many examples of this
ornate, romantic style with its curves reminiscent of flowers and
waves. It is a very decorative and pleasing style. The
Sagrada Familia, the ornate church Gaudí designed is, in fact,
one of the symbols of the city. And his Parc Güel is filled
with whimsical touches almost like a children’s fantasyland. Other
famous artists whose collections can be visited are Tàpies,
Picasso and Miró. For most Americans the Miró museum
offers them the largest collection of this famous artist’s
works they will have seen in one location. Barcelona
is a wonderful place to enjoy good food and drink. Although
dinner won’t start for most locals until after 9:00pm, you
can enter a bar, sit at the counter and enjoy tapas or small dishes
at almost any hour. The chef prepares a variety of dishes that are
displayed, and you take the ones you want. The food is
flavorful with an accent on seafood and tasty sauces. There
is a delicious local sparking wine called cava. |
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