Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona, Spain
Description
The 1992 Summer Olympics revealed to the world what Europeans and seasoned travelers already knew - Barcelona is one of the world's greatest treasures. Vibrant and earthy, commercial and cultural, this city of two million residents is the capital of Spain's autonomous region of Catalonia. Stroll along the wide, tree-lined promenades of Las Ramblas and marvel at the spires of Gaudi's Basilica La Sagrada Familia. Or visit the former Olympic Ring on the hill of Montjuic - also home to world-class parks, fountains and museums. Barcelona, which nurtured such artistic giants as Picasso, Dali, Miro and Casals, is definitely a traveler's paradise.
Points of Interest
- Barri Gothic
- La Sagrada Familia
- Montjuic / Olympic Stadium
- Las Ramblas
- Montserrat Benedictine Monastery Complex
- Park Guell
- La Pedrera
- Sitges
More about Barcelona, Spain Points of Interest
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Barri Gothic -
Featuring labyrintine streets and the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia, the Gothic Quarter is the center of the old city of Barcelona. Some buildings date back to medieval times and the remains of a Roman wall are visible.
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La Sagrada Familia -
The Sagrada Familia, Barcelona's most idiosyncratic and flamboyant church, is regarded as architect Antoni Gaudi's masterpiece and has been under construction since 1882. It features breath-taking spires and awe-inspiring stained glass windows.
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Montjuic / Olympic Stadium -
This stadium hosted the opening ceremonies for the 1992 Olympic Games
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Las Ramblas -
Barcelona's famed promenade is alive and colorful with flower stalls and cafés. Stroll the old medieval quarter of Barri Gothic.
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Montserrat Benedictine Monastery Complex -
This wonderful monastery, considered Catalonia's most important religious retreat, is hidden high in the craggy Montserrat Mountains. The world's oldest publishing house, established in 1499, is also located here.
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Park Guell -
Designed by Antoni Gaudi, Catalonia's master architect, this glorious park features many works of wonder, including a serpentine-shaped bench, stunning views of the city and a mosaic dragon at the park's entrance.
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La Pedrera -
Known locally as Casa Mila, Gaudi's most accomplished, finished work features an ornate façade with undulating walls and iron art nouveau balconies.
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Sitges -
This delightful fishing village, 25 miles north of Barcelona, is popular with tourists thanks to its sandy beaches, café culture, galleries and museums, including the Maricel Museum which houses medieval paintings and sculptures.