Diverse, dynamic, modern, stylish, fascinating and fun: the capital of Catalonia and Spain’s second largest city on the northeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula is essentially Mediterranean in its history, tradition and cultural influences. It is the unique blend of spectacular industrial growth, beautifully preserved Gothic and Neoclassical heritage, and the splendor of modernism that make Barcelona really irresistible. It is a fascinating experience to discover the many aspects of this thriving, bustling, multi-faceted city. Barri Gotic, the remarkably intact Gothic nucleus of old Barcelona, is a maze of winding streets and small squares packed with cafes and bars. Its heart is the Sqaure of St. Jaume, the site of a busy market. The traditional Catalonian dance sardana is performed in the square on Sundays. The Cathedral of Santa Eulalia (or simply the Seu) is a magnificent Gothic building dedicated to a 13-year-old martyr, co-patron of Barcelona. Thirteen white geese are kept is a secluded corner of the cathedral. Barcelona’s most famous and liveliest boulevard, the tile-covered, tree-lined La Rambla stretches all the way to the harbour and the lofty monument to Columbus (Colom). It is a popular place for sightseeing, eating and shopping, punctuated by places of interest such as the sumptuous Rococo mansion Palau de la Virreina, the famous market Mercat de la Boqueira, the Mosaic de Miro (with one tile signed by the artist), the opera house and the Erotic Museum.
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