Today as Spain's second largest city with well over 1.5 million inhabitants, Barcelona is a true picture of modern Spain today. However, Barcelona also has a rich history going back well over 2000 years.
There are many sights to see in Barcelona, but here are some of the more historic experiences once can have when visiting the city:
1. Barri Gòtic (Gothic Quarter) - Here you will find buildings dating back to medieval times. Unlike many large European cities that paid a heavy price during the large scale wars of the 20th century and lost many of their old buildings (that is, if they hadn't lost them already through great fires or other catastrophes common throughout the past centuries). This is noteworthy because what Barcelona showcases for a city of its size is truly rare. You will find small winding streets, and quaint old buildings in this part of town.
2. La Sagrada Família - While construction work on perhaps Barcelona's most famous landmark began in 1882, it has never been technically finished. Even today, estimates don't have it finally built until 2026. The La Sagrada Família was also originally constructed by one of Barcelona's favourite sons and famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi (he is even buried there). The design features a near science fiction style set of spires, facades with detailed geometric designs on the interior.
3. Palau Reial Major (Palace of Catalan Music) - Barcelona's most famous concert hall built between 1905 and 1908. Very much still in operation today, the concert hall can seat up to 2200 people and holds the prestige of being Europe's only auditorium that is naturally illuminated during daylight hours which is provided by the huge dome-like Stained glass skylight. Make sure to check for any events at the Palau Reial Major while you are visiting for a truly magical experience.
4. Arc de Triomf (Triumphal Arch) - Looking and even sounding somewhat like a famous monument in France, however with a reddish tint the Arc de Triomf was built in 1888 for the Universal exhibition. The structure is a famous meeting point in Barcelona in some ways thanks to its close by train stations.
5. Barcelona Pavilion - Although nowhere near as old as many of the landmarks featured above, the Barcelona Pavilion still holds an important role for both Barcelona and modern architecture alike. Looking like it could be from a modern architecture magazine of today, the Barcelona Pavilion was originally built for the 1929 International exposition by the German architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. Reconstructed in 1983-1986, the Barcelona Pavilion provides a fascinating look into what the world viewed as the future of architecture during this era.
Barcelona is truly a historic city, don't forget to bring your camera when you visit.
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