This museum's permanent collection describes the city's history from Roman times to the present day. It's located in a beautiful 16th-century mansion with an attractive central courtyard, the casa Clariana-Padellás. The fascinating underground tour takes you along paved Roman roads through the remains of Roman houses, bathrooms, and sewers, then up to the old city walls. You can also see historical documents from several centuries that illustrate the evolution of the town, including plans, sketches, models, and drawings. Also worth visiting is the nearby Capella de Santa Àgata on the other side of the Plaça del Rei. The view of the old town's labyrinthine streets from the top of the Torre del Rey Martí is unbeatable.
Gaudi's masterpiece, the Casa Batlló is one of the most unique residential buildings ever constructed in the Modernista style. Its facade bedecked with a rainbow of colored tiles gives way to the entrance hall that evokes an underwater sojourn complete with wave-like walls, turtle-shaped skylights, and a staircase that resembles the spine of a mythical creature. The upper level Noble Floor features windows that open out onto Passeig de Gràcia and are flooded with natural light and the connected outdoor patio is a kaleidoscope of hues wrought in glass and tile. From the terrace, it's easy to understand why the house is called casa del drac locally, as the roof tiles resemble Sant Jordi's dragon. A marvelous expression of both creativity and architectural acumen, the Casa Batlló stands as a testament to Gaudi's psychedelic genius.
Teatre Grec with the semi-circular structure reminds you of typical Greek theaters. Large number of people can be accommodated and the perfect acoustics ensure that the sound quality is excellent. Built in 1929, it was planned and structured by architect Ramon Reventós. Mostly connoisseurs of performing arts gather here to enjoy various festivals. Festival Grec de Barcelona that celebrates the rich Spanish culture is held at this theater.
While competition for the most outstanding religious structure in Barcelona is high given architectural masterpieces like the Sagrada Familia and Barcelona Cathedral, this basilica is quite spectacular. It was built between 1329 CE and 1384 CE, giving visitors a glimpse into Gothic history and serving as an important stop along any tour of the Barri Gòtic. The austere Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar boasts a lovely 15th-century stained-glass window shaped like a rosette, as well as impressive sculptures on the facade and tympanum. Mass is held in the Santísimo chapel except on Sundays when it is held in the main altar. Mass is regularly conducted in Catalan, as well as in Spanish on select days.
Established by surrealist artist Joan Miró, this institute was founded to support the study of contemporary art. It was built by architect Josep Lluís Sert who was also a close friend to Miró and member of the Catalan art scene. Its outstanding octagonal tower houses a concert hall that puts on classical music performances, and the striking building also houses a permanent collection of Miró's art. Large canvases mingle with tapestries while engravings complement photographs. Given the eclectic stylings of its honored artist, the institute showcases a number of disciplines and aesthetics. There are also a café-restaurant and souvenir shop onsite, promising plenty of comfort for visitors to the Joan Miró Foundation.
Parc de la Ciutadella is a lush attraction nestled in the Old City, known locally as the Ciutat Vella. The park was designed by Josep Fontserè and his then-unknown assistant Antoni Gaudí, who went on to pioneer Catalan modernism with such masterpieces as the Basilica de la Sagrada Família. Although it no longer bears the distinction of being the only green space in the city, the park remains an important respite for city dwelling nature lovers, as well as those looking to experience the essence of Barcelona. Within the park are several attractions for the whole family, among them the Barcelona Zoo and Catalan Parliament. Weave through the verdant park and its many cultural offerings, taking time to relax by the lake as the ornate fountain creates a peaceful melody.