In the heart of the city's historic district lies Plaça del Rei, a square rich in history and architectural splendor. It is home to two significant buildings that offer a glimpse into the past.
The first notable structure is the Santa Àgata church. This church holds historical importance, as it is where the kings of the Aragon crown were baptized. Visitors are welcome to explore its interior and soak in the history that surrounds it.
The second building is renowned for its Saló del Tinell, a stunning example of civil Gothic architecture. This grand hall was once the site of royal receptions, marked by its broad, open space and impressive wooden ceiling supported by characteristic Catalan Gothic arches. The building also features a tower, offering visitors a wonderful view of the old town.
To fully appreciate these historic sites, an entrance ticket is required for both buildings.
Source - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pla%C3%A7a_del_Rei
One of Gaudi's masterpieces, there is not one straight edge on the exterior and the structure is one of Gaudi’s most eccentric and enticing architectural creations. Tours of the interior and the incredible roof structures are available. Great views of the tall buildings (especially La Sagrada Familia) from the roof. Hosts a large exposition of Gaudi works, covering Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlio, not only La Pedrera itself. The exposition is a good place to start your exploration of Gaudi; it reveals many hidden details for the art novice.
This museum mainly exhibits exponents, which were imported by Catalan sailors as they explored the new world. Free on the first Sunday each month (11:00 to 15:00)
A complex of two pavilions by Antonio Gaudi. 2024 closed for renovation.
Much to the dismay of Mickey Mouse aficionados, Disseny is Catalan for "design", not "Disney". The "Disseny Hub" houses the amalgamated museums focusing on applied arts and design, including Museu de les Arts Decoratives, Museu de Ceràmica, Museu Tèxtil i d'Indumentària and Gabinet de les Arts Gràfiques. The new building has an intricate, multi-level structure, with the protruding tower overhanging the Praca de les Glories roundabout.
This market was the central market for Barcelona until 1973 and its closing marked the beginning of the neighborhood's decline before its current resurgence. While undergoing renovations, whole streets and homes that had been demolished by Phillipe V's orders were discovered and archaeologists who worked to transform the market in to a cultural centre and history museum. Entrance and street level is free, but to visit the ruins requires paying for a ticket.
One of the most unusual landmarks in this otherwise ultra-modern area is this 19th-century (finished in 1882) brick water tower. Standing 62 metres tall, it is now overshadowed by neighbouring residential, office and hotel towers and easy to miss unless you know where to look for it.
A beautiful Gothic monastery near the university, there are a museum which depicts the monastery life, a church, and a marvelous chapel covered with medieval frescoes.
Placa d'Espanya was created for the 1929 World Exhibition, on a site once used for public hangings. The fountain in the center of the square is a great attraction and plays music during the summer. Plaça Espanya is located at the base of Montjuic hill.
The first building Gaudi built in Barcelona. It has been opened as a museum. It's possible to walk the whole monumental enclosure, including the garden and the interior of the building. In UNESCO World Heritage Sites list since 2005.
Has the single best collection of Romanesque art in the world, and a fine Gothic collection as well. Includes the Pantocrator from the Taüll Romanesque church. The building itself is also very beautiful.
The museum has limited opening hours but the park it is situated in is also interesting. Check website before going to the museum as it will eventually relocate to The Can Bagaria building.
Distinctive pink house that Gaudi lived in for nearly 20 years (although not designed by him). It features furniture designed by Gaudi and other objects relating to Gaudi's life. The gift shop has a large selection of Gaudi-themed souvenirs that are generally better quality than what's available in the normal tourist shops.
A fake village built in 1929, with replicas of characteristic buildings in Spain (like the Avila walls, the Vall-de-roures town hall, etc.). The village hosts the Fondation Fran Daurel, where you can enjoy an interesting Modern Art collection boasting Miró, Picasso, Tapiès and other, mostly Spanish and Catalan, contemporary artists. The audio tour is very worthwhile there. Also worth seeing - the flamenco show at Tablo de Carmen. You can also step into several of the workshops to see craftsmen at work such as glassblowers and leather workers.