If we were to choose a single site in Barcelona, this would surely be Plaça Sant Felip Neri. Maybe it’s because our children’s school is here, but the plaza has a special charm.
giants in the church
The Església del Pi is one of the few buildings that have not been modified since the middle ages, unlike what happens with the Cathedral. You have to go first thing in the morning, when there will be fewer people in the square and the light is more spectacular. It is a very nice place if you go in the right moment.
all that glitters is not gold
The gothic quarter is one of the main tourist attractions of Barcelona. Problem is it’s barely gothic.
the neolithic avenue
Via Laietana is the street that separates the neighborhoods of El Gòtic and La Ribera (or El Born). Its name comes from the Neolithic tribe of the Laietans, who were the first known inhabitants of the area where Barcelona is now.
the center of power
Plaça Sant Jaume is the center of power of the city. You will see that there are two large buildings: the city hall on the side closest to home, and the regional government headquarters on the other side. One way to distinguish them is by the flags, since the City Hall has the one of Barcelona.
where it all began
Barcelona was founded by the Romans in 15 BC as a small military colony. The wall of the Roman city went through what currently would be the streets Avinyó (ours!), Avinguda Catedral and Via Laietana. Until the 10th century, Barcelona was just that small piece of what is now the Gothic Quarter.
an oasis in the jungle
It is usually considered that the center of Barcelona is the Plaça Catalunya, from which large commercial areas such as Passeig de Gràcia, Portal de l’Àngel, Pelai or La Rambla start. Too many people and cars.