LA SAGRADA FAMILIA and other Barcelona, Spain Things to Do Tips

LA SAGRADA FAMILIA (The Holy Family)
This Cathedral was designed by Antonio Gaudi. The construction begun in 1884 and it's still a long way before the cathedral is finished, if it's ever finished. Gaudi, who lived at the construction site for over 20 years, died in 1926 hit by the tram after leaving the cathedral. Apperently, this is the reason why there is no tram in Barcelona anymore.
There are no original plans of Gaudi's project left, only some sketches. Also, although modern techniques are currently being used, some parts of the construction can only be completed using the old traditional ones. Another reason why the construction is taking so long is the lack of money. All funds come from donations. Still, it is a real masterpiece, finished or not, there is no other cathedral (or a building) in the whole world.
You should go up to one of the towers, either by foot or take an elevator for 2 €. Coming down can be a bit frightening as there is no railing on the inner side of the staircase ;)

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It's the most famous tree-lined street in Barcelona and one of the most famous boulevards in the world. La Rambla goes from Placa Catalunya (the heart of Barcelona) to the harbour. It's about 2km long. It has a central sidewalk with cafes, restaurants, newspaper stands and shops, where you can buy souvenirs, flowers or even birds and small pets.

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Boqueria is the most varied and busiest market in Barcelona. It's just right off Ramblas and you can find any fruit, sea food, meat or cheese you can imagine here.

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Directions: Off Ramblas in it's upper part, coming from the sea on the left

On the picture you can see the Columbus monument. Columbus stands on the top of a tall column pointing out to the sea. And actually he isn't pointing towards America.

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Port Olimpic was built for the 1992 Olympic Games. It has it all: entertainment, leisure, business, commerce and dining in one place.
It's most recognisable feature are the impressive twin skyscrapers - Mapfre Tower and Hotel Arts Barcelona, and a steel fish designed by Frank Gehry between the two .

It's a great place for all beach activities, strolling down as well as having great dinner in one of the sea-view restaurants and enjoing the nighlife.

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There are some beautiful charming corners in Barrio Gotico. Montcada is one of the them, a long narrow street with best preserved buildings and a view of a palm tree at its end. This is also where Museum of Picasso is located.
Another amazing place is Plaza Real, with the street lamps designed by Antonio Gaudi and rows of palm trees.
Well, these are the must sees but walk the side less crowded streets to find the real pearls of charming Barrio Gotico.

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The construction of the cathedral started in XIIIth century and finished in the beginning of XXth century.
On saturday and sunday afternoon people gather on the square in front of the Cathedral and dance Sardana which is a local dance. It's very nice experience to see them gather and dance with such a joy.

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The side entrance to the Cathedral leads throgh a beautiful gothic patio with palm trees, little ponds and fountains.

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Phone: 933151554
Address: Plaça de la Seu
Directions: Barri Gotic. Metro: Lines 1 and 3 (Catalunya Station) and Lines 2 and 4 (Urquinaona Station.)
Website: http://www.catedralbcn.org

Picasso Museum was inaugurated in 1963 in the Aguilar Gothic palace in Montcada street, 15. Then another 4 palaces were added so now the museum houses a really vast collection chronologically showing the history of Picasso's art creation. Picasso Museum is one of those opened before artist's death and a large part of present collection comes from the donation that Picasso himself made in 1970.
Many of Picasso's works represent Barcelona as this is where he lived, where he studied, where he worked, where he had his studios and also, this must be the best place to show his life and art.

The entrance fee is 6,00 € and be prepared for about 30 minutes waiting to get in.

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Phone: 93 319 63 10
Address: Casa del Baro de Castellet, Montcada, 15-23
Directions: Metro: 'Jaume I',Barri Gotic
Website: http://www.museupicasso.bcn.es

Santa Maria del Mar in the Gothic Quarter was built in the 14th and is's a great example of catalan gothic architecture. The simple and cold looking inside is contrasting with many colourful stained glass windows. It has a great acoustics which makes the religious place a great site not only for religious concerts but also jazz, classics and oriental music.

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Address: Placa Santa Maria 1
Directions: Barrio Gotico