Over the next two days we will be putting our walking shoes to the test as our plan is to visit all the major districts in Barcelona's Old City (The Ramblas, The Gothic Quarter, El Born, Eixample and El Raval) as well the neighboring districts of Montjuic, Eixample and Barceloneta. Lets start with The Ramblas as this is where we are staying. For more than a century The Ramblas has been Barcelona's main boulevard for both locals and tourists alike. It takes about an hour to casually walk the pedestrian only street as it is full of people, shops, hucksters, newsstands, cafes, street artists and fast food joints. It is an amazing experience to be taken up with the ebb and flow of the place.
Placa Reial is a beautiful square just off the Ramblas that has a colonial ambiance to it. It used to be a monastery but was dissolved in the 19th century and turned into public spaces. Today the square is dotted with palm trees and the buildings are painted yellow with white Neoclassical trim. Filled with old fashioned taverns, cafes and modern bars all with patio seating, it's a peaceful oasis in the heart of the Ramblas chaos.
Built in 1883, the Casa Bruno Cuadros Building used to have an umbrella shop on the main floor. Inspired by the Catalan Art Nouveau movement and the increasing taste for Oriental decoration, the outside of the building was adorned with umbrellas and an ornate Chinese dragon.
The last remaining remnants of Barcelona's medieval Wall built in the 14th century is located just off Las Ramblas
Opened in 1835, the Los Caracoles is located on one of the side streets just off Las Rambles. Two cooks are basting the rotisserie chickens in the front of the restaurant. Rita and I made a reservation there on the recommendation of Rose Moss, a friend and past work colleague for later in the week.
Glad you enjoyed!!!! Rose and Don
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