This weekend I flew to Barcelona to attend a wedding, but also could not resist to explore beautiful Barcelona. Steeped in history, adorned with architectural marvels, and infused with a distinct Catalan spirit, Barcelona entices visitors from around the world with its unique blend of old-world charm and modern allure. From the sun-soaked beaches of the Mediterranean to the enchanting streets of the Gothic Quarter, Barcelona offers a myriad of experiences that cater to every traveler's taste. Whether you're a lover of art, a food enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, Barcelona promises to captivate your senses and leave an indelible mark on your travel journey. Get ready to immerse yourself in Barcelona's culture, indulge in delectable cuisine, marvel at awe-inspiring architecture with me.

 

Nestled in the heart of Barcelona, Villa Milà, also known as La Pedrera, stands as a testament to the city's architectural brilliance. Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-visit destination for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Villa Milà showcases Gaudí's unique and innovative approach to design, characterized by its undulating stone facade, organic shapes, and intricate details.

This architectural marvel exudes an otherworldly charm, captivating visitors with its unconventional beauty. As you step inside, be prepared to be transported to a world of Another century. Explore the captivating rooftop adorned with surreal chimneys, which offer panoramic views of the Barcelona skyline. The intricate ironwork and sinuous lines create a surreal and dreamlike atmosphere, making it a photographer's paradise. Venture through the interior, and you'll discover a fascinating world of twisting corridors, whimsical courtyards, and stunningly designed apartments. Gaudí's attention to detail is evident in every nook and cranny, from the ornate ceilings to the colorful mosaic floors.

Visiting Villa Milà is not just a chance to admire architectural genius; it's an opportunity to delve into the rich history and artistic heritage of Barcelona and also to enjoy a spectacular view over the City! You can also book sundowner Tickets.

A true hidden gem of Barcelona is the parc de la ciutadella. Nestled within the park you find Umbracle a former church transformed into a stunning floral oasis, offering visitors a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling city of Barcelona, open from 8:00 til 14:00. With its ornate architecture and vibrant flower displays, Umbracle serves as a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls, romantic picnics, or simply immersing oneself in the beauty of nature. The intertwining of history and botanical wonders makes Umbracle a must-visit destination, where visitors can marvel at the harmonious blend of art, spirituality, and natural splendor. Besides the park offers lawn on which you can have a picnic or watch the artist's jonglieren. Or you can See next the fairy fountain or row a Boat over a small lake of the parc.

 

Indulge in the classic patatas bravas, crispy potato chunks smothered in spicy tomato sauce and aioli. Sample the mouthwatering gambas al ajillo, sizzling garlic prawns that pack a flavorful punch. Don't miss out on the tantalizing pan con tomate, crusty bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes, garlic, and drizzled with olive oil. Experience the rich flavors of paella, a saffron-infused rice dishadorned with fresh seafood or succulent meats. Delight in the heavenly taste of pulpo a la gallega, tender octopus dressed with olive oil, paprika, and sea salt.

Also there are many cute Cafés, Restaurants or Bars where you can order some Tapas. I found for example a restaurant in the middle of Barcelona's old town is called Café Bou. Run by a Spanish family and offers seating upstairs and outside as well as a fantastic Brunch.

 

Casa Vicens was designed by Antoni Gaudí and built between 1883 and 1885 as a private residence for Manuel Vicens, a wealthy businessman. The house marked the beginning of Gaudí's architecturalcareerand served as his first major commission. The design of Casa Vicens exhibits a fusion of architectural styles, combining elements of Catalan Modernism, Art Nouveau, and Gaudí's personalcreativevision. The exterior showcases vibrant ceramic tiles, elaborate ironwork, and decorative motifs inspired by nature and traditional Catalan culture. After serving as a private residence forover acentury, Casa Vicens was opened to the public as a museum in 2017. Today, you can explore the various rooms, admire the exquisite interior design, and gain a deeper understanding of Gaudí's earlyarchitectural concepts. Here you can also walk on the rooftop and sit in the Garden and order a coffee from the Museums Café. Close by is the parc Grüell to see even more of Gaudi's work.

A building project on the scale of the Sagrada Família requires the work of many, many professionals. Gaudí surrounded himself with a large group of collaborators, architects, artists and tradesmen. After giving them clear instructions as to what he wanted, he trusted their profesionalism completely. After Gaudí died, his assistants and disciples continued his work, clearly trying to respect and exalt the architect's style. In the 1980s, two noteworthy artists joined the team: Josep Maria Subirachs and Joan Vila-Grau. The former was entrusted with the task of creating the sculptures and doors on the Passion façade and the doors on the Glory façade and the latter, with designing the stained-glass windows. Both artists interpreted the instructions

>Gaudí left with his disciples.

 

>Subirachs threw himself heart and soul into creating the sculptural works for the Sagrada Família. Following in Gaudi's footsteps, who spent the final years of his life living and working next to the Temple, he asked the Junta Constructora del Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família to provide him with a studio on site. He lived for nearly twenty years in this space, which has been recreated with original elements.

 

>In 1999, the Junta Constructora del Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família commissioned Joan Vila-Grau to make the stained-glass windows of the Basilica based on instructions left by Gaudí. Joan Vila-Grau was born into a family of artists: both his father and his grandfather were painters. In 1955, he decided to focus his career on painting and also began creating ceramic murals

and stained-glass windows. He became so enthralled with the art of stained glass that he began to study the history of this trade, writing many books on the subject. His stained-glass windows can be seen in many places around Catalonia, as well as some of the most important cities in Spain and in Switzerland, Argentina, the Netherlands and Andorra.