BARCELONA
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Barcelona's Gothic Quarter is the heart of the old city. The center of the quarter is the
Placa de Sant Jaume. The quarter was once enclosed within Roman walls parts
of which still remain. A partial Roman aquaduct structure can be seen on the north side of the Placa.
The quarter offers magnificent examples of stone construction described as Catalan Gothic.
This marvelous style is displayed in the public buildings such as the Cathedral,
the Government Office and the Royal Palace.
The Cathedral of Barcelona located in the heart
of the Gothic Quarter was built between 1298
and 1450. It honors Santa Eulalia and contains
beautifully carved choir stalls and the Chapel of
Santo Cristo.
The Catedral de la Sagrada Familia can properly be called Barcelona's signature piece. It was begun in 1882 and will be completed (hopefully) before the the year 2100. The twelve spires representing the twelve apostles reach over three hundred feet in the sky. The Sagrada Familia is the work of Antono Gaudi whose designs combine stone, metal and ceramics in a commanding fashion.
The first side of the Sagrada Familia is done in what we can call "Gaudi Gothic" with classic statuary amid a plastiform structure.
The second side is in deep contrast to the first. This modern sculpture is breathtakingly beautiful and rich in symbolism.
Left: Monument Colon at the foot of Las Ramblas.
Below: A view of Barcelona harbor from Montjuic.
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