How the quarter was built up
Not all objects of the Gothic quarter appeared here in the Middle Ages, during the heyday of the union of the state of the Aragonese crown, an important part of which was the principality of Catalonia. The first surviving stone objects were built in antiquity - these are the ruins of the city wall, the palace of Octavian Augustus and the aqueduct in the vicinity of Tapineria Street and New Square. The most active territory of the future Gothic quarter of Barcelona was developed in the XIII-XIV centuries, but since then Barcelona has gone through a series of historical and natural disasters. Ancient houses burned, came under fire, they were destroyed by earthquakes. As a result, by the twentieth century, most of the buildings, which had been rebuilt several times, required a global reconstruction. Modern architectural monuments are a fusion of Gothic, Neoclassicism and Neo-Gothic, complemented by the skillful work of restorers.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia
Gothic buildings and squares
The Gothic Quarter of Barcelona has generally retained its medieval layout, although many areas have been expanded by the demolition of old buildings. Among the most popular tourist sites are the Cathedral of Saint Eulalia, New Square, the Church of Santa Maria del Pi.
Church of Santa Maria del PiCathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia
In the majestic, richly decorated cathedral, the seat of the Bishop of Barcelona, \u200b\u200bin the center of the quarter are the relics of a 14-year-old Christian girl who suffered at the hands of pagans in the 4th century. The carved spiers of the temple inspired Antoni Gaudi for the Sagrada Familia project. The interior of the cathedral is no less luxurious than the façade; the courtyard with a fountain and a miniature garden, accessible to the eyes of visitors, contains white geese, symbolizing the purity and innocence of Saint Eulalia. The cathedral is open to tourists from 8:00 to 19:30.
Church of Santa Maria del Pi
The 14th century building located near the Liseu metro station is distinguished by its simplicity of form. The stone façade is decorated only with a giant 10-meter rosette, restored to its original form 80 years ago, and a pointed arch above the entrance. Guests and believers are expected at the temple from 9:30 to 20:30. The historical interior of the church was seriously damaged during the fires and the Spanish Civil War, only the 18th century Rococo seats have survived, and the altar is a modern neo-Gothic style.
The name should not confuse tourists: in fact, this is the oldest square in Barcelona, \u200b\u200bcompletely built up in the 14th century. It is one of the most eclectic architectural ensembles in the Catalan capital. Once it was the outskirts of a Roman settlement, from where aqueducts originated, the ruins of which can still be seen. Next to the ancient ruins is the medieval House of the Archdeacon with modernized dark fortified towers. The College of Architecture on the other side of New Square is adorned with modern "cave paintings" - cheerful stylized images of people.
Landmarks of the later eras
The masters of past centuries erected new buildings on the ruins that cannot be restored. Among these architectural works is the Basilica of Saints Justus and Pastor, located 100 meters south of the Jaume I metro station: the facades were rebuilt in the neo-Gothic style, the interior became neoclassical. The 17th century church of San Felipe Neri is famous for its Baroque reliefs and sculptures on the façade. Near Columbus Avenue is the La Merce Church, built in the 18th century on the ruins of a Gothic church. It is known among pilgrims for the wooden figure of Our Lady of Mercy kept inside. It is one of the city's most revered Catholic sites and has received the privileged status of a minor basilica along with the Church of Santa Maria del Pi and the Cathedral of Saint Eulalia. On September 23, a cult procession is organized annually in honor of the sculpture. A secular landmark, the Royal Square with a fountain, lanterns designed by Antoni Gaudí, and powerful palm trees appeared only in the 19th century, but this does not prevent it from being a favorite vacation spot for the indigenous Barcelona people.
Royal square of Barcelona
Entrance to the Wax MuseumGothic Quarter museums
Erotic Museum in BarcelonaThe thematic variety of museums in the historic center of Barcelona caters to the tastes of the city's most discerning visitors. The Gaudí Exhibition Center with the Diocesan Museum of Barcelona together with the Art Museum and the Museum of Frederic Mares, the famous Catalan sculptor, is open a few tens of meters from the Cathedral of the Holy Cross. The Erotic Museum operates near St. Joseph Boulevard, famous for its flower shops. The Wax Museum awaits visitors as they approach Columbus Avenue.
Events in the Gothic Quarter
The small hall of the millennial church of St. Anne is used for concerts by masters of the Spanish guitar. On Sundays, in St. James's Square, everyone who wants to participate in round dances-sardans to the sounds of orchestras of folk instruments. On the days of festivals, competitions for the construction of pyramids-castels are held here. The competition participants themselves become the building material for them: 8-10 strong men are placed at the base, representatives of the next level are taken to their backs and so on up to 10 floors.
Ball of the Giants at St. James Square
Information for tourists
On the borders of the Gothic Quarter, there are metro stations line 3 "Liceu" and line 4 "Jaume I." From here it is convenient to start exploring Barcelona: the city's main attractions are located within a 2 km radius. Restaurants and cafes are open literally at every step: a wide assortment of national cuisine establishments, thematic projects, such as rock cafes, jazz clubs and the art cabaret "4 cats". Once a young Picasso exhibited here, Albeniz played. Today, cabaret owners are trying to recreate the bohemian atmosphere of the early 20th century: live piano music sounds until 1 am, and artists perform. The number of boutiques representing world brands is not inferior to the number of restaurants. There are many small but rather expensive hotels on the territory of the quarter.
Davidlohr Bueso / flickr.com Richie Diesterheft / flickr.com Eric Chan / flickr.com Urban Digger / flickr.com Oh Barcelona / flickr.com Jeremy / flickr.com Ivan Mlinaric / flickr.com Oh Barcelona / flickr.com Javier Losa / flickr.com zoetnet / flickr.com
The quarter starts at Plaza Catalunya and ends at Via Laetan. Once in this place the Romans founded a settlement under the Italian name Barcino, it was surrounded on all sides by a stone wall 2 meters thick. Now a street has been laid on the site of that wall. Barcino was inhabited by Roman soldiers. The oldest house that has survived to this day was built in the twelfth century. He witnessed the strongest earthquake that struck the city in the fourteenth century.
The Gothic Quarter got its name from the beginning of the twentieth century, thanks to the unique group of Gothic buildings built in the 14th - 15th centuries. The Gothic Quarter is considered as an example of the construction of cities of the Middle Ages, many small streets, cutting through it up and down, are very narrow.
The general view of the quarter is a mixture of three styles, namely the architecture of the Roman Empire, Medieval Gothic and Art Nouveau. This eclecticism makes the Gothic Quarter admire many tourists from all over the world.
Cathedral
The most striking attraction is considered, it is also called the Cathedral.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia (Chris Parker / flickr.com)
This Cathedral is an architectural masterpiece of the Middle Ages. It has a very beautiful Gothic facade. The construction of the cathedral began in the thirteenth century, and was built over several centuries. The facade was finished only by the end of the 19th century.
The Cathedral is dedicated to a girl who lived in the fourteenth century. She was tortured by the Inquisition and died as a result of brutal torture for her faith. The girl died at the age of thirteen, this explains the tradition, which is maintained today - thirteen whitest geese stay in the Cathedral chapel, symbolizing the meekness of Eulalia, who accepted the death of the inquisitors. Eulalia is the patroness of the city of Barcelona.
Plaza Nova square
New Square, from which the Gothic Quarter begins, was founded in 1335. In the past, this place was the city gate. Dilapidated ancient Roman walls, two Roman towers of four floors, which at one time carried a protective function, protected the settlement from enemies until the 18th century.
Bishop's palace
On Plaza Nova stands the Bishop's Palace, built during the Baroque period, with a beautiful façade. The building was built on Roman foundations and contrasts with the building that houses the College of Architects. The building was designed by Pablo Picasso, the facade of the house is made in the Art Nouveau style in white.
House of the Archdeacon
The next masterpiece on New Square is the Archdeacon's house. This house separates the New Square and the Cathedral. The ecclesiastical Diocese has been located here since the twelfth century. The house was reconstructed twice, as a result of which it was connected to the neighboring building. This building also mixed three styles of architecture. The Archdeacon's house now houses the archives of the city of Barcelona.
Square - Plaza de Saint-Jaume
Another square, the Plaza de Saint-Jaume, was the center of the life of the townspeople during the Roman Empire; all the most significant events of the city took place here. It is connected to the New Piazza by Carrer del Bisbe. The old City Hall and other administration buildings are located on the square.
Gothic Quarter, Barcelona (Ivan Mlinaric / flickr.com)
The two buildings are connected by a Gothic bridge in 1926, brought to life by the architect Joan Rubio. On the entire image of the City Hall, we can see traces of different styles. From the inside, the City Hall is purely Gothic. Hall of the Hundred, gallery, courtyard - all these structures were created during the Middle Ages. Near the Plaza de Saint-Jaume, you will see the ruins of a temple dedicated to Augustus, built in the 1st century.
Royal Palace
The Royal Palace is the main attraction of the quarter, it is located in Plaza del Rey, the most famous and oldest square of the Gothic Quarter. This building is a true gothic masterpiece.
Grand Royal Palace, Barcelona (Jeremy / flickr.com)
Many events in Barcelona are associated with this square. Here Christopher Columbus was received by the royal couple Fernado and Isabella after his return from a journey that led to the discovery of America. The Royal Palace was the seat of the Spanish kings for two centuries, from the thirteenth to the fifteenth.
Historical Museum building
On the Plaza del Rey there is another old building of the city, which is admired by tourists, the building of the Historical Museum. The museum is located in a house built in the fifteenth century. The main exhibit of the museum is the Palace with a throne room, built in the fourteenth century and is a masterpiece of Catalan Gothic. The meetings of the Most Holy Tribunal took place here during the Inquisition. The excavation site in the museum is very interesting, it is located under the square and exposes the monuments found by archaeologists.
Old Jewish Quarter El Call
The Gothic Quarter hides many secrets beyond the control of the human eye. One such mystery is the old Jewish Quarter Call. Jews lived here until the 15th century, but during the time of Torquemada they were expelled from Catalonia. The expulsion was preceded by extortions and pogroms, from which the Jews were saved with the help of underground passages built specifically for this. Nowadays, excursions are held here. Tourists can get acquainted with the life of Jews of that time, the history of the Jewish quarter in the Kal Information Center.
The Gothic Quarter is one of the main attractions of Barcelona, \u200b\u200bwhich is desirable for all tourists. The opportunity to go back in time, feel the medieval atmosphere, get acquainted with the history of the city will leave a deep imprint on your soul for many years.
The Gothic Quarter (Cat. El Gotic or Barri Gotico, Spanish Barrio Gotico) is one of my favorite places in Barcelona. Every time I visit the city, I certainly go there. You can walk along it endlessly, getting lost in the maze of narrow streets and squares lost between them. There is a special atmosphere here. The Gothic Quarter is also just a salvation for the hot Barcelona summer. There is nothing more pleasant at this time than walking along its shady alleys, feeling the stone coolness of medieval buildings and having a cool drink in one of the many cafes.
In my opinion, Barri Gotico is a must-see place. This is not just a separate tourist attraction, but a whole storehouse of architectural masterpieces that together form a small medieval town. Here history and modernity intertwine, the spirit and heart of Barcelona is embodied.
History of the Gothic Quarter
The history of the Gothic Quarter dates back to the time of the Roman Empire. More than two thousand years ago there was a small settlement of Barcino, where the retired Roman soldiers lived. After the collapse of the Empire, it fell into decay. And only in the Middle Ages, when Catalonia became part of the Kingdom of Aragon (one of the most powerful Mediterranean powers of that time), numerous buildings that have survived to this day were re-erected on this site. Most of them date back to the XIV-XV centuries (although some ancient Roman structures have survived as well). It is thanks to this medieval architecture in the Gothic style that the quarter got its name.
How to get there
The Gothic Quarter is located in the Old Town (Cuitat Vella) of Barcelona. It stretches from Placa de Catalunya to the Old Port (Port Vell), and from La Rambla to Via Laietana.
There is no metro directly in the Gothic Quarter, but there are as many as 4 stations around it:
- Jaume I (L4);
- Drassanes (L3);
- Liceu (L3);
- Catalunya (L1, L3);
It can also be easily reached by tourist or city bus - the Barri Gotic stop.
What to see
The Gothic Quarter is rich in all sorts of attractions and interesting places. It is impossible to get around them all in a couple of hours of walking, or even in a whole day. It is difficult to recommend anything specific, as it depends on your preference. But I'm sure everyone here will find something to see!
First of all, Barri Gotico is famous for a large number of ancient Gothic temples. The most famous of them are: / The names of attractions in such lists are better in bold /
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All of them were built in the Middle Ages, but none of the temples survived in their original form. So, the Basilica of Le Merce was erected in the 18th century on the remains of a Gothic church, the Basilica of Santa Maria del Pi was completely restored at the beginning of the 20th century after a fire, the Church of Santos-Douste-I-Pastor - partially at the end of the 19th century, and the famous the facade of the Cathedral of St. Eulalia was completed already in the 19th century according to medieval sketches.
The same pseudo-Gothic is one of the most photographed places in the Gothic Quarter - Bridge of sighs(Pont dels Sospirs). It is also called the lace bridge.
It was built in the 1920s by the architect Joan Rubio and connects the residence of the President of Catalonia with the Government Palace. The place is located on the street Bizbe (Сarrer del Bisbe), next to the Cathedral of La Seu. Previously, the building of the residence was the house of his canon (Casa de la Canonya). Nearby is the house of the archdeacon of the cathedral (Casa de l´Ardiaca), which is famous for its beautiful courtyard, popular with tourists. The courtyard also appeared only in the 19th century. But both houses are really medieval Gothic buildings. Moreover, they were erected on an ancient Roman foundation.
In addition, in the Gothic Quarter, several structures from the times of the Roman Empire have survived - the ruins of the Barcino settlement. The largest surviving fragment is under the King's Square (Placa del Rei). You can go down to the ruins through the entrance to the City History Museum, located at the corner of the square. The visit is paid (7 EUR).
But you can see the remains of Barcino for free. So, on the New Square (Placa nova) there are fragments of the towers of the city gates of the ancient city and the remains of an aqueduct. Also, next to another square (Villa de Madrid), below street level, you can find a section of the ancient Roman road, framed by stone tombs along the edges.
The main place of Barcino was the forum, in the center of which was the Temple of Augustus (Temple Roma d'August). Today, the main place of the Gothic Quarter is located here - sant Jaume square(Plaсa de Sant Jaume), and the surviving remains of the temple of Augustus are exhibited in the courtyard of the Tourist Center of Catalonia.
A large number of traditional festivals and events are held in Plaza Sant Jaume. There are also two main buildings of the city: the City Hall (city house) of Barcelona (Casa de la Ciutat de Barсelona) and the Palace of the Government of Catalonia (Palau de la Generalitat). Each of them is a masterpiece of architecture and has its own rich history. Both were built in the Middle Ages, but, like much in the Gothic Quarter, they were rebuilt many times later.
Another famous Barri Gotic square is Royal square (Placa Reial). True, it does not belong to the Gothic at all. The buildings along the perimeter are built in a classical style with arches. In the center of the square, there is a graceful fountain surrounded by palm trees. All this gives Plaça Real a luxurious and somewhat aristocratic look. However, this was the idea when it was designed and built in the 19th century. The influential people of that time lived here. And although the audience is now much more democratic, the square has retained the atmosphere of sophistication to this day. And the restaurants here are not the cheapest.
The highlight of the Royal Square, which cannot be overlooked, are the original lanterns designed by the famous Gaudí.
Plaça Reial is one of the most visited places in the Gothic Quarter. Numerous bars and restaurants are open until late at night.
If you want peace and solitude, then go to the square with a similar name - king's square (Placa del Rei). There are usually few people here, you can sit in a cafe or just on the steps and enjoy the cool shade of the medieval buildings.
There is also the main museum of the Gothic Quarter - Barcelona History Museum (MUHBA), which presents unique exhibits showing how the city developed from ancient times to the present day.
Another popular Barri Gotic museum - Frederic Mares Museum... It is also known as the "Sentimental Museum". It is a museum of sculptures from the Roman period to the 20th century.
In addition to the historical heritage, contemporary art is also vividly represented in the Gothic Quarter. The main place where you can enjoy it is gallery Villa de Arte... It (and nearby on the street) exhibits unusual and spectacular sculptures, as well as paintings by the best contemporary artists. The gallery is located in the heart of Barri Gotic - behind the Cathedral.
Here, next to the cathedral, in the building of the Royal Artistic Circle of Barcelona (Reial Cercle Artistic de Barcelona), there is a small, but very interesting exhibition of little-known sculptures and sketches of the brilliant Salvador Dali.
But the main, in my opinion, masterpiece of contemporary art in the Gothic Quarter is a huge photo mosaic by the Catalan photographer Joan Fontcuberta - El mundo nace en cada beso (cat. El mon neix en cada besada), which means "The world is born with every kiss." It is a wall tiled with small photographs of happy moments that together form a picture of a kiss. Photos for work were donated by the townspeople themselves. There is a mosaic in the square opposite the Cathedral.
Things to do in the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter not only offers spiritual food - it's also a great place to grab a bite to eat. There is a huge number of all kinds of bars, restaurants and cafes for every taste and budget. But one place is worth paying special attention to - this is a restaurant Els 4 gats ("Four cats"). It is famous not so much for its cuisine as for its rich history. The restaurant was opened in the 19th century by the then famous modernist artist Pere Romeo, after the image of the famous Parisian cabaret "Black Cat" (Le Chat Noir). Els 4 gats instantly became a bohemian favorite. But the main regular at the establishment was Pablo Picasso, which made the restaurant popular. And although Els 4 gats did not reach us in its original form (it was restored in the 70s of the XX century), it still conveys the atmosphere of that time.
Also the Gothic Quarter is a great place to shop! It is here, and not to shopping centers, that you should go shopping. On the main avenue of the quarter, Avenida del Portal del Angel, you will find many famous chain stores. And if you go deeper - small creative boutiques of Spanish designers and local shops.
Check the calendar if you are planning to wander around the Gothic Quarter. Many spectacular and interesting events take place here. The most famous are the festival in August and (literally "human towers", the centerpiece of Barcelona's main festival, La Merce), in September.
Barcelona's Gothic Quarter (Barrio Gotico in Spanish), or its medieval "heart", is one of the main attractions not to be missed in the Catalan capital. Yes, you most likely will not miss it. The information in the article has been verified and remains valid for 2019.
Usually, it is customary to start the first sightseeing route in Barcelona from the very center - from Plaza Catalunya, and the bulk of tourists vacationing on the coast come here by Renfe train, bus or car.
The Gothic Quarter is adjacent to Plaza Catalunya, and you can delve into it from different directions: from the famous Ramblas, from Via Laietana or from the promenade (from Passeig de Colom).
Gothic quarter on Barcelona map. As you can see from the map, getting lost in its many intertwining streets is as easy as shelling pears.
Most of the buildings, cathedrals and streets of the Gothic Quarter, as the name implies, belong to the Middle Ages (XIV-XV centuries and earlier), but much earlier evidence of its history has survived on the site of the Old City of Barcelona - for example, artifacts from the times of Roman rule. To the period BC, about which not so much is known for certain, mentions about the city of Barcino... In the Old Town, there is a sculptural composition reminiscent of where the name Barcelona came from.
During the Roman Empire, Barcino was not as powerful (albeit strategically important with a good harbor) as Tarracon (modern), located a hundred kilometers away, but over the centuries its importance grew. By the 5th century - the time of the conquest of Barcino by the Visigoths - it had already become a large and wealthy city on the Iberian Peninsula.
So, going for a walk in the Gothic Quarter in search of its sights, you immerse yourself not only in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages with its Gothic buildings, but also constantly stumble upon interspersing monuments of other, earlier and later eras. You just need to know exactly where they are, because you won't be able to find all of them at a jump, you will need a map. In the Gothic Quarter, the ability to remember the streets you have passed, if you have it, practically does not work due to the chaotic medieval buildings.
If you want to take a walk around Barcelona in the company of a Russian-speaking guide and hear an interesting historical story, order an individual an excursion for every taste
The first time walking around the Barrio Gotico looks like a claustrophobic wandering: "Russo?" - "Russo, Russo !; "Mikhail Svetlov?" - "Chyort beggar!" You fall out of it, bewildered, on the Rambla, or to the sea, or somewhere else where your feet were taken ... The second time you can slightly distinguish one street of the Gothic Quarter from another, on the third - you already quite confidently keep the direction there. But, I'm sure - the Gothic Quarter, no matter how many times it is there, can still present some kind of surprise. He beckons. I advise you to go there early in the morning, when there are few people. For late in the evening only desperate daredevils can afford to delve into its labyrinths ... And it's not only the ancient eerie energy of the quarter - like in the ocean, you don't know who will suddenly emerge from its depths to meet you.
Read more about the problem of crime and safety in Barcelona in the article .
The Gothic Quarter is a gloomy and, as I said, incredibly energetic place: sometimes it seems that some of its narrow well-streets do not lead to others, but directly lead to the "fourth dimension". The color also enhances the feeling that you are not only in medieval Europe, but also in Africa or Asia, when you find yourself among their people who live in houses in the Gothic Quarter.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, or simply the Cathedral - the main cathedral of Barcelona. It is truly majestic, both inside and out. A Christian basilica already existed in its place more than one and a half thousand years ago. In fact, in the form in which we can see it today, the cathedral was erected in the period from the end of the XIII (1298) to the XV century (1420). However, over the course of time, various parts of the cathedral were modified, in particular, the magnificent neo-Gothic facade was completed only in 1870. If you walk around the cathedral from different sides and carefully examine it, you will see this stylistic difference between the façade, which appeared later, and the straight lines of the Catalan Gothic of the Middle Ages. Saint Eulalia, a martyr who died at the hands of pagans, whose name actually bears the Cathedral of Barcelona, \u200b\u200bis also dedicated to the cloister (a gallery that frames the courtyard of a monastery or a large church). In the cloister with graceful columns live 13 white geese (the white goose symbolizes the integrity of the Christian martyr, and their number is the age of Eulalia when she died).
The staff of the cathedral make sure that women enter it in appropriate clothes and with their shoulders and legs covered; it is also customary to leave donations in the cathedral.
New Square (Placa Nova) located next to the Cathedral. Here you can see the remains of the ancient Roman walls among the Gothic buildings.
Bizbe Street (Сarrer Bisbe) known for its graceful bridge between buildings, which looks gothic, but in fact it is a skillful stylization - it was created in the 1920s by one of Barcelona's architects. This bridge is incredibly popular with tourists in a hurry to capture themselves against its background.
On the saint Jacob's Square, or Sant Jaume (Placa de Sant Jaume) in the Gothic Quarter there are administrative buildings - the palace of the Catalan government and the town hall. This square was important even during the Roman times of Barcino, when the city Forum and the Temple of Augustus were located here, from which several columns have survived (located now in another place in Barcelona).
In general, there are several interesting squares in the Gothic Quarter, to which a map will lead you or you yourself accidentally wander here during a walk.
The most beautiful, in my opinion - Royal Square (Placa Reial)... This rather large square with spreading palm trees growing on it was created in the 19th century on the site of the Capuchin monastery destroyed by fire. Pay attention to the lanterns designed by Antoni Gaudí. It is very pleasant to sit here and have a cup of coffee in one of the many cafes.
In addition to the Royal Square, in the Gothic Quarter there is also King's Square (Placa del Rei)... This square is not a remake, it really plunges you into the Middle Ages.
San Felip Neri Square - a quiet small square in the bowels of the Gothic Quarter, where street musicians often perform.
Pi Square (Placa del Pi), also compact in medieval style, attracts with the 14th century Gothic church of Santa Maria del Pi located on it.
More photos of the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is the centerpiece of the old city and a popular attraction. What do the narrow streets of Barri Gotic conceal?
A gallery connecting houses.
Photo: flickr.com/jcorrius
In the heart of Barcelona
The Gothic Quarter is located between Rambla and via Laietana. The tourist route along it usually starts from Plaza Catalunya and goes to the port. Over the centuries-old history of the city, the quarter has always been at the epicenter of events and has changed its appearance more than once. This area received its name at the beginning of the XX century. for the largest complex of architecture of the XIII-XVI centuries in Europe. in the gothic style. Most of the buildings were built during the reign and the heyday of the Crown of Aragon dynasty.
The Gothic Quarter is an example of a medieval city with a labyrinth of narrow streets. It's easy to get lost here.
Walking through the labyrinthine streets of the Gothic Quarter is gloomy but exciting.
Photo: liveinternet.ru
“The Gothic Quarter is a very special place. Damp, dirty streets, where the sun's rays do not fall. There are many Chinese and Arabs who have settled in these houses. All this against the backdrop of the history of Barcelona. The most interesting place is the Cathedral. When there is no service, you can get here for free. And there are also many atmospheric establishments that are interesting to look at. "
- by metro: to Liceu or Jaume I stations;
- by tourist bus: to the Barri Gotic stop;
- on foot you can get from, crossing the road to the Rock Café, and further to the end of the Rivadeneyra street.
How do you get to the Gothic Quarter?
Photo: flickr.com/marimbajlamesa
Every lane is a story
Take a map with you for a walk around Barri Gotic - check the route.
For a walk - only with a map.
Photo: quetiempo.es
New square
Placa Nova is the first tourist attraction on the way. A part of the Roman protective walls with columns have survived here, behind which until the 13th century. the Roman settlement of Barcino was located. Pay attention to the Baroque Episcopal Palace and the Archdeacon's House. The house with the remains of the fortress wall combines several architectural styles. A quaint mailbox from 1895 hangs on the house. The building now houses the city archive.
New Square is a popular meeting place.
Photo: panoramio.com
Cathedral
Cathedral Square (Pla de la Seu) is adjacent to the New one. Cathedral of St. Cross and St. Eulampia (XIII-XIX centuries) with a Gothic facade is the main value of the quarter. The cathedral is dedicated to the great martyr, patroness of Barcelona, \u200b\u200bEulampia, who died at the hands of the pagans. In memory of the 13-year-old Eulampia, symbolizing her innocence, 13 geese live in the courtyard of the cathedral.
Geese in the courtyard of the Cathedral of St. Eulampia.
Photo: travelphotogallery.net
City Hall and Parliament
Continue on to Placa Sant Jaume, where you can see the city hall and the Parliament of Catalonia, built in the 15th century. The facade of the parliament is decorated with a statue of St. George the Victorious. Orange trees grow and bear fruit in the Gothic courtyard surrounded by stone buildings.
City Hall and Parliament of Catalonia.
Photo: okoguide.com
King's Square
By Carrer del Veguer we get to the King's Square (Placa del Rei) with the Royal Palace of the XII century. Here King Ferdinand received Columbus, who returned from his first voyage. And here is the historical museum. The most valuable "exhibit" is an archaeological site with preserved elements of streets, houses, shops, temples from different eras.
King's Square in the rain.
Photo: flickr.com/montse-poch
Frederic Mares Museum
The sculptor Mares had a passion for collecting and collected literally everything. His unusual collection is a gift to the city.
Frederic Mares Museum.
Photo: totenart.com
Roman columns
Moving along the Carrer del Paradis, you will reach the remains of a temple from the 2nd century. Four gigantic Roman columns hid behind the doors of the excursion center. Squeezed between the walls of the house, they surprise with their elementary presence.
Roman columns are so tall.
Photo: flickr.com/jrthibault
Houses of the Jews
Carrer del Call street will lead to the Jewish quarter, where until the 15th century. Jews lived and were severely oppressed. Some houses still have secret doors. During the raids, people went through underground passages outside the city wall.
There are narrow streets in the Jewish Quarter.
Photo: ojodigital.com
The atmosphere is key
In addition to the ancient architecture, the atmosphere of the Gothic Quarter is interesting. People come here to experience the spirit of Barcelona.
Artists and musicians, bakers, grocers, second-hand booksellers and antique dealers have long settled in these houses. Today they play in the streets, dance flamenco, read poetry, draw cartoons. The quarter is home to the finest restaurants and tiny cafes, trendy shops and souvenir shops. The turbulence does not subside until late at night, when bars and popular discos open. Many tourists choose exactly the evening hours for a tour of the Gothic Quarter. Night walks are a special entertainment for those who want to tickle their nerves.
The Gothic Quarter is crowded at night.
Photo: devourbarcelonafoodtours.com
“We lived in the center of the Gothic Quarter, so we often walked here even at night. Narrow streets, shutters, graffiti, gloomy buildings. A gargoyle seems to be waiting for you around every corner. In general, this is an attraction for adrenaline lovers. They say that it's not safe here at night. As, however, in the daytime, in the crowd, you should beware of pickpockets, beggars and thieves. "
The Gothic Quarter is shrouded in hundreds of urban legends. Although this area of \u200b\u200bthe city is included in standard Barcelona sightseeing tours, we advise you to take a walk around the area with a personal guide. On the Internet, you can find non-standard walking tours, including evening ones, with visits to legendary shops, shops, cafes, with incredible stories about what once happened on the streets of the Gothic Quarter.
Gargoyles look intimidating.
Photo: barcelona-home.com
“We took an individual excursion. The family got 100 euros. We walked for two hours in the Gothic Quarter, turning into its darkest corners. We liked it very much, the teenage son was especially impressed. Walking on your own would not be so informative. Besides, there are no information boards or stands for tourists in the quarter. "
Check points
In addition to architectural landmarks, there are several interesting places in the Gothic Quarter that are definitely worth a look.
Art Cafe Quatro Gats
At the beginning of the last century, the entire creative elite gathered in the legendary cafe. The cafe held his first exhibition of Pablo Picasso. He also designed the menu, which remains unchanged to this day. Here you can drink one of the best coffee in town and admire the interior. But the kitchen is not very praised.
The famous "Tandem" in the art cafe "4 cats".
Photo: datuopinion.com
Museum of old shoes
Shown here are footwear and various manufacturing techniques for the entire long history of shoemaking. Among the curious exhibits are the shoes of famous Spaniards and boots sewn for the statue of Columbus. The ticket price is 2.5 euros.
I wonder who will fit this size?
Photo: panoramio.com
Jazz Club Harlem
Music bar in the heart of the Gothic Quarter. Every evening, except Sunday and Monday, concerts are held, where music of different styles sounds. The bar plays rock, blues, swing, flamenco. Listen and dance music lovers come from all over Barcelona. Entrance - 6-10 euros, depending on the program.
At a concert at Harlem
Photo: catalunyaguide.com
Confectionery Caelum
Drop by for pastries turrons, sweets and other delicacies prepared by the servants of the monastery.
And how to keep track of the figure here?
Photo: therestauralist.blogspot.ru
Vintage boutique L'arcadel'avia
"Babushkin's Chest" is a family shop and tailoring atelier, like a free textile fashion museum. They sewed outfits for the films "Titanic", "Vicky. Kristina. Barcelona ”,“ Perfume ”.
How many beautiful and unusual things are there!
Photo: trendslabbcn.blogspot.ru
By the way, one of the “Perfumer's” scenes was filmed nearby - on the San Felip Neri square.
Where to stay?
The Gothic Quarter is a great place to stay in Barcelona. From here you can walk to. The historic district of the city is the choice for those who are interested in walking, etc. It is in the Gothic Quarter that you have the chance to live in an old mansion. There are hotels of different stars, as well as a wide choice of apartments. The peculiarities of the hotels in this area are a roof terrace, small rooms, lack of parking, noise in the streets during the day and evening hours.
Relaxing on the hotel's rooftop terrace is wonderful.
Photo: pinterest.com/wegnerinc
Here are some well-reviewed hotels located in the Barri Gotic area:
Aparthotel Arai 4 * S Monument
From 240 euros *.
The hotel is housed in an 18th century building. The atmosphere is maintained by exposed stone walls in the cozy rooms. The hotel has a swimming pool, sauna, roof terrace. The building houses the classic tavern Palosanto.
We offer to make a virtual tour of the Arai 4 * apart-hotel and the streets adjacent to it.
Regencia Colón 3 *
From 120 euros.
The hotel is in the very center of the quarter, behind the Cathedral. Spacious country-style rooms with balcony. There is a fireplace in the hall.
Photo: booking.com
Condal 2 *
From 110 euros.
The hotel has been operating since 1850. Located in a quiet side street next to the Rambla. Modest, cozy rooms with every comfort in a simple, classic style.
Take a virtual tour of the Condal 2 * Hotel.
* These are high season prices for a double or twin room.
Going on a trip, everyone would like to save on housing. Based on feedback from tourists, we have compiled an overview of five close to central Barcelona.
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The heart of Barcelona, \u200b\u200bBarri Gotic, surprises tourists with its treasures: architectural structures from different millennia living on the same street, and atmospheric establishments: cafes, shops, bars - and a busy street life. Take the exit from la Rambla inland to find something interesting for you.
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