srettig24 Although we might have hit travel complications at the train station- it was very swanky, with the old brick walls and the roof it felt like old meeting new, a jungle in an airplane hanger.
Welcome to Barcelona. The architecture, food, and weather were the main highlights for me. I was there in December and it was tee shirt weather during midday and only a sweater or jacket needed at night. I was able to go to my first European Christmas market and it was a bit overwhelming in the best way with the stalls, lights, and crowds. As I explained in my post about Salamanca, the Christmas light game was…. well lite! I don’t know what was more entertaining- seeing the lights or seeing people trying to stop traffic to get photos. Another reflective thought, is how individuality and creativity were celebrated in Barcelona. It was clear that the city is proud of its famous artist who were brillant and bold. Yet, this is hardly surprising, Catalonians feel a strong sense of pride in their language, culture and identity. Celebrating their similarities and differences to the rest of Spain and the world this is a truly unforgettable city.
At this point you might be asking, why is Barcelona being represented by clinking wine glasses? The answer, is simple. Cava. Cava is produced the same way champaign is but different grapes are used. Cava is less bubbly than Champaign and is only made in this region of Spain. There are many places that you can go Cava tasting and take a tour.
Gaudi
La Sagrada Familia which is Guadi’s most famous work began construction in 1892 and is still in construction today although expected to be finished in swiftly approaching 2026! Guadi was actually a replacement architect for the building, and he clearly made a few changes. What makes his work so famous is well, how unique it is for one. Also the combination of several styles you would expect to contrast, but he drew them together perfectly. Nouveau which I think of as the dreamlike nature, geometric elements as seen in the left of the photo above, and with some gothic elements which you can see in the spires. What makes his work so notable is how different each of his work is, sure there are some underlying similarities but each one stands apart demonstrating his vast creativity and skill.
Can’t Forget about Picasso
While there are more museums in Spain which have Picasso’s work, for example in Malaga, the Picasso museum in Barcelona is one of the best. This well laid out museum has many pieces of work as well as English informational signs which help you understand and learn not just the work but the man behind it. With some spotlight on Picasso’s sister and wife, the museum does a good job of not only trying to explain the genius of Picasso, but bringing to life the influence and lives of those around him.
I had a few reactions to the museum I want to share with you.
- Walking around the museum all I could think about was how difficult it can be to step outside the mold. I assume it would be lonely to create something so different than what was normal at the time, and know that some people would never understand it or respect it.
- It amazed me how he painted his entire life, from childhood to his death. How many of us really have a passion and job that we stick with throughout our entire life? Pretty extraordinary
- Although his paintings are the most famous he also made jewelry and pottery. He wasn’t afraid to work and develop a new skill. He seemed to love trying new things, testing the limits with his art and how he expressed it.
- Have you ever heard the Picasso napkin story? Do a quick search. Own your story and know your worth.
Just take a bike out for a spin. Just do it. These red bikes are just tempting you to ride them. I noticed that Barcelona has fairly large side walks but narrow roads, this really encourages you to walk or ride a bike to get around. These photos were taken near the Ramblas de Mar which while very touristy has plenty to look at and you get a warm welcome by street performers.
The Gothic Quarter
The urban design in Barcelona is something you take notice of right away. First off- there are trees everywhere. This gives the streets a warm and friendly atmosphere also reduces the noise pollution. It was as quiet as a graveyard in the Gothic Quarter! The city is creating superblocks to combat noise pollution emphasizing the priority of environmental friendliness and quality of life being a priority.
Hoping I’ll get a chance to see this city again! I would love to go to the museum about Catalan culture and history. I also want to go inside La Sagrada Familia. I would love to take a day to just slowly walk through the Gotic Quarter and have a picnic in la Parc Güell. I would love to go on a day trip to the Montserrat Monastery. Maybe one day!
P.S. Thank you M and K!
