Streets squares and districts to visit Catalonia

This elegant neoclassical square is one of the most popular in Barcelona. Formerly the property of the Capuchins, it was designed by the architect Francesc Molina between 1848 and 1860. Framed by arcades and adorned with palm trees, the square is lit by modernist street lamps by Gaudí, while the Three Graces fountain, from 1876, embellishes the central part. The luxurious atmosphere it once had is now tinged with a bohemian touch that encourages relaxation. In the evening, its many bars and restaurants are fully booked.

The Rambla de Catalunya starts from the Plaça de Catalunya and runs parallel to the Passeig de Gràcia until it reaches the Avenue Diagonal. Like the latter, it is one of the city's main shopping streets. In addition to many shops, you will find bars and cafés with their respective terraces, all located on the central median. The avenue is dotted with modernist buildings: note for example Casa Serra by Josep Puig i Cadafalch at number 126, or Bolós pharmacy at number 77 and its beautiful façade decorated with stained glass windows.

The ancient village of Gràcia was a full municipality until 1897. Narrow streets and small squares contrast with the architectural splendour of Eixample. It was one of the Republican bastions in the th century. It is a little tourist area because it is rather residential and popular, but its charm is undeniable. It is in this neighbourhood that the parties of Gràcia are flames the streets, every year in August: among the most popular.

Between the 13th and 17th centuries, Passeig del Born was a place of festivities, where crafts fairs and knighthood tournaments were held. The current name of the district, Born, also means "tournament" in Catalan. In 1874, the covered market of the same name was built at one end of the passage. This metal construction, a symbol of the industrial 19th century, is one of the first in Spain. The whole area has kept a popular atmosphere, with its bistros and local shops.

With an area of three hectares, Plaça de Catalunya, linking the historic center to the Eixample, is the starting point of the main arteries of the city. The first stage of urbanization of the square dates back to 1902, followed by various projects, such as that of Josep Puig i Cadafalch in 1923. Finally, the inauguration by Alfonso XIII did not take place until 1927. Considered the social and cultural epicenter of the city, this square is a veritable open-air museum with sculptures by Clarà, Marès, Gargallo and Llimona, among others.

Located between the beaches of Barceloneta and Nova Icària, this port was built in 1991 to accommodate the sailing competitions of the 1992 Olympic Games. Several architects participated in its design, including Oriol Bohigas, Josep Martorell and David Mackay through the MBM Arquitectes agency. At the foot of the Mapfre towers and the Arts Hotel, the port is home to a high concentration of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. Here stands the sculpture of Frank Gehry's Peix d'or, icon of the Vila Olímpica, representing a golden fish.