The Basilica of Santa María del Mar in Barcelona is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, built for the shipbuilders and merchants of the region. The stones of its walls and the shapes of its windows take you back to the 14th century, telling tales of devotion and craftsmanship in a beautiful space for worship. Although I am an agnostic, ...
Plaça de Sant Felip Neri is tucked away in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. This place always draws me in; it’s a small, serene spot that feels like a step back in time, far from the busy and touristy city streets. The square is home to a baroque church, and its walls bear the scars of a tragic past. It ...
Cemeteries mirror living societies. They are a small version of the city they’re in and reflect the same social patterns, Barcelona’s Montjuïc Cemetery is no exception. This is especially true for the Cementerio de Montjuïc in Barcelona. In this cemetery, some of Catalonia’s wealthiest families have tried to outdo each other for ages. They built the most impressive buildings and, ...
Sitges is a coastal town in Catalonia, Spain, with sun-kissed beaches and a laid-back vibe that artists, tourists, and locals have loved for years. This charming town is famous for its renowned film festival, lively LGBTQ+ scene, and carnival, one of the biggest in the world. This destination’s picturesque streets, lined with boutiques and restaurants featuring everything from traditional tapas ...
Visiting the iconic Sagrada Familia is an absolute must for anyone planning a trip to Barcelona. This awe-inspiring basilica, designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, has captivated visitors worldwide with its unique architectural style and intricate details. But there is much more to this famous landmark than meets the eye. The story behind the construction of the Sagrada Familia is ...
Europe boasts of several beautiful cemeteries that serve as final resting places and captivating outdoor spaces. These cemeteries are filled with history, art, and tranquility and often feature breathtaking landscapes, intricate tombstones, and beautiful monuments. They are important cultural sites and peaceful settings for reflection and contemplation. This article will explore some of the most stunning cemeteries in Europe, showcasing ...
In the heart of Montserrat, a majestic mountain range in the province of Barcelona, lies a fascinating underground treasure: Coves del Salnitre. Translated to Spanish as Cuevas del Salitre or Saltpeter Caves in English, we will explore the depths of these mysterious caverns, where stalactites and stalagmites tell the geological story of this spectacular area. We will discover the millennia-old ...
Throughout history, city walls have played a significant role in the defense and development of urban areas across Europe. These imposing structures were meant to provide protection against external threats, aid in controlling the movement of people and goods, and eventually come to symbolize the might and prestige of the cities they encircled. In this blog post, we’ll talk about ...
Girona is a charming city located in northeastern Catalonia. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant atmosphere, Girona offers visitors a unique and truly Catalan experience. The city is often referred to as the “City of Four Rivers” due to its picturesque location where the rivers Ter, Onyar, Güell, and Galligants meet. With its medieval walls, narrow streets, ...
Art has always been at the forefront of rebellious expression, touching upon sensitive subjects and provoking the powers that be, often resulting in either self or imposed censorship. When public opinion clashes with artistic creation, culture vs. censorship emerges, raising important questions about freedom of expression. One fascinating place where this conflict is analyzed and celebrated is Barcelona‘s Museum of ...