Barcelona's Gothic Quarter. Gothic Quarter in Barcelona. What's worth seeing? Cathedral in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona

Gothic Quarter(cat. El Gotic or Barri Gotico, Spanish Barrio Gotico) is one of my favorite places in Barcelona. Every time I'm in the city, I definitely go there. You can walk along it endlessly, getting lost in the maze of narrow streets and squares lost between them. There is a special atmosphere here. The Gothic Quarter is also a real salvation in the hot Barcelona summer. There is nothing more pleasant at this time than to walk along its shady alleys, feel the stone coolness of medieval buildings and drink something cooling in one of the many cafes.

In my opinion, Barri Gotico is a must-visit place. This is not just a separate tourist attraction, but a whole treasure trove architectural masterpieces, together forming a small medieval city. Here history and modernity intertwine, embodying the spirit and heart of Barcelona.

History of the Gothic Quarter

The history of the Gothic Quarter dates back to the times of the Roman Empire. More than two thousand years ago there was small settlement Barcino, where retired Roman soldiers lived. After the collapse of the Empire it fell into decay. And only in the Middle Ages, when Catalonia became part of the Kingdom of Aragon (one of the most powerful Mediterranean powers of that time), numerous buildings were re-erected on this site, which have survived to this day. Most of them date from the 14th–15th centuries (although some ancient Roman structures also survive). It is thanks to this medieval architecture in the Gothic style that the quarter got its name.

How to get there

The Gothic Quarter is located in the area Old city(Cuitat Vella) Barcelona. It extends from Placa de Catalunya to Port Vell, and from La Rambla to Via Laietana.

There is no metro directly in the Gothic Quarter, but there are 4 stations around it:

Jaume I (L4);
Drassanes (L3);
Liceu (L3);
Catalunya (L1,L3);

You can also easily get there by tourist or city bus - stop Barri Gotic.

What to see

The Gothic Quarter is rich in all kinds of attractions and interesting places. It is impossible to get around them all in a couple of hours of walking, or even in a whole day. It's difficult to recommend anything specific, as it depends on your preferences. But I’m sure everyone here will find something to see!

Above all, Barri Gotico is famous big amount ancient gothic churches. The most famous of them: /The names of attractions in such lists are best highlighted in bold/

All of them were built in the Middle Ages, but not one of the temples has reached us in its original form. Thus, the Basilica of Le Merce was erected in the 18th century on the remains of a Gothic church, the Basilica of Santa Maria del Pi was completely restored at the beginning of the 20th century after a fire, the Church of Santos Doust I Pastor was partially restored late XIX century, and the famous facade of the Cathedral of St. Eulalia was completed in the 19th century according to medieval sketches.

The same pseudo-Gothic is one of the most photographed places in the Gothic Quarter - Bridge of Sighs(Pont dels Sospirs). It is also called a lace bridge.

It was built in the 20s of the 20th century by the architect Joan Rubio and connects the residence of the President of Catalonia with the Government Palace. The place is located on Carrer del Bisbe street, next to the La Seu Cathedral. Previously, the residence building was the house of his canon (Casa de la Canonya). Nearby is the house of the archdeacon of the cathedral (Casa de l'Ardiaca), which is famous for its beautiful courtyard, popular among tourists. The courtyard also appeared only in the 19th century. But both houses are indeed medieval Gothic buildings. Moreover, they were erected on an ancient Roman foundation.

In addition, several buildings from the times of the Roman Empire have been preserved in the Gothic Quarter - the ruins of the settlement of Barsino. The largest surviving fragment is located under the King's Square (Placa del Rei). You can go down to the ruins through the entrance to the City History Museum, located on the corner of the square. The visit is paid (7 EUR).

But you can see the remains of Barsino for free. Yes, on New Square(Placa nova) fragments of the city gate towers are located ancient city and the remains of an aqueduct. Also, next to another square (Villa de Madrid), below street level, you can find a section of an ancient Roman road, edged with stone tombs.

The main place of Barsino was the forum, in the center of which was the Temple of Augustus (Temple Roma d’August). Today, the main site of the Gothic Quarter is located here - Plaza Sant Jaume(Plaсa de Sant Jaume), and the remains of the Temple of Augustus that have survived to this day are exhibited in the courtyard of the Tourist Center of Catalonia.

In Plaza Sant Jaume is held a large number of traditional holidays and events. There are also two main buildings of the city: the City Hall (city house) of Barcelona (Casa de la Ciutat de Barcelona) and the Palace of the Government of Catalonia (Palau de la Generalitat). Each of them is a masterpiece of architecture and has its own rich history. Both were built in the Middle Ages, but, like many things in the Gothic Quarter, they were rebuilt many times.

Another famous Barri Gotic square is Royal Square(Placa Real). True, it does not belong to Gothic at all. The buildings located along the perimeter are built in a classical style, with arches. In the center of the square there is an elegant fountain surrounded by palm trees. All this gives Plaza Real a luxurious and somewhat aristocratic look. However, this is how it was intended when it was designed and built in the 19th century. Influential people of that time lived here. And although now the public here is much more democratic, the square has retained its atmosphere of sophistication to this day. And the restaurants here are not the cheapest.

The highlight of the Royal Square, which cannot be ignored, are the original lanterns, created according to the design of the famous Gaudi.

Plaza Reial is one of the most visited places in the Gothic Quarter. Numerous bars and restaurants here are open until late at night.

If you want peace and solitude, then go to the square with a similar name - King's Square(Placa del Rei). There are usually few people here, you can sit in a cafe or just on the steps and enjoy the cool shade from the medieval buildings.

There is also the main museum of the Gothic Quarter - Barcelona History Museum(MUHBA), which features unique exhibits showing how the city developed from ancient times to the present day.

Another popular Barri Gotic museum is Frederic Mares Museum. It is also known as the "Sentimental Museum". This is a museum of sculptures from the ancient Roman period to the 20th century.

In addition to the historical heritage, contemporary art is also vibrantly represented in the Gothic Quarter. The main place where you can enjoy it is Gallery Villa de Arte. It (and nearby on the street) exhibits unusual and spectacular sculptures, as well as paintings by the best contemporary artists. The gallery is located in the heart of Barri Gotic - behind the Cathedral.

Here, next to the cathedral, in the building of the Royal Art Circle of Barcelona (Reial Cercle Artistic de Barcelona), there is a small but very interesting exhibition of little-known sculptures and sketches of the brilliant Salvador Dali.

But the main, in my opinion, masterpiece of modern art in the Gothic Quarter is a huge photo mosaic by the Catalan photographer Joan Fontcuberta - El mundo nace en cada beso(cat. El mon neix en cada besada), which means “Peace is born with every kiss.” It consists of a wall tiled with small photographs of happy moments, which together form a picture of a kiss. The photographs for the work were donated by the townspeople themselves. The mosaic is located in the park opposite the Cathedral.

Things to do in the Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter has more than just spiritual food to offer - it also perfect place to have a snack. Here is located great amount all kinds of bars, restaurants and cafes for every taste and budget. But one place worth paying special attention to is the restaurant Els 4 gats("Four Cats") It is famous not so much for its cuisine as for its rich history. The restaurant was opened in the 19th century by the then famous modernist artist Pere Romeo, modeled after the famous Parisian cabaret “The Black Cat” (Le Chat Noir). Els 4 gats instantly became favorite place local bohemia. But the main regular of the establishment was Pablo Picasso, which brought popularity to the restaurant. And although Els 4 gats has not reached us in its original form (it was restored in the 70s of the 20th century), it still conveys the atmosphere of that time.

Also the Gothic Quarter is a great place for shopping! Here, not in shopping centers, it's worth going shopping. On the quarter's main avenue, Avenida del Portal del Angel, you will find many well-known chain stores. And if you go deeper, there are small creative boutiques of Spanish designers and local shops.

When planning a walk through the Gothic Quarter, check the calendar. Many spectacular and interesting events take place here. The most famous are the festival in August and (literally "human towers", the centerpiece of Barcelona's main festival, La Merce), in September.

The first inhabitants appeared in this territory before our era. It is impossible to name the exact date today, but historians suggest that it happened between 43 and 2 BC, when Octavian Augustus ruled here. It was this Roman district of Barcino, according to experts, that became the progenitor of the entire future. Of course, most of the buildings that today belong to the Gothic Quarter did not yet exist at that time. But today there are traces and descriptions of the Roman forum, which was located on the site of St. James Square and the fortress wall.

In the 13th and 14th centuries, the Cathedral of St. Eulalia was built, which became the logical center of these territories. Active construction of the remaining structures began in the 14th century and continued throughout the next 15th century. It was during this period that most of the main buildings that can still be seen were built. At times, the development was carried out chaotically, which also affected the street system - in the Gothic Quarter, as in the old parts of many other European cities, the streets are rather narrow and winding passages between buildings. Most of them are open to pedestrians only.

This part of the city received the name “Gothic Quarter”, known today, in the 20th century. It was then that residents drew attention to the surviving medieval buildings, which now stood out against the background modern city. In the 1920s, restoration was carried out here. From that moment on, the area was included in the list of main attractions of Barcelona and the whole of Barcelona.

Today it is tourist centre, in which, in addition to historical buildings there are a large number of hotels, cafes, shops and bars. Exploring the Gothic Quarter is one of the main excursions for city guests.

How to get to the Gothic Quarter

This site is located between La Rambla and Laientana streets. At the top it is framed by Plaza Catalunya, and the lower border abuts Columbus Avenue and the seashore. It occupies an impressive area, so you can get to it in different ways. Often the inspection starts from Plaza Catalunya.

The exact address: Barri Gotic, Barcelona, Spain.

Option 1

Bus: Not far from Plaza Catalunya there are stops Pl Catalunya, which is served by buses 59 and V13, and Portal de l’Àngel, where buses 41, 55, H16, N4, N8, N28 and V15 stop.

If you start your acquaintance from the shore, then the N9, N12 and N15, which reach Cap, are suitable. General or bus V17, running past the Via Laietana stop.

Option 2

Metro: you can navigate to several stations at once - Drassanes, Liceu, Urquinaona and Jaume I.

Gothic Quarter on the map

What to see

One of the main sites has been the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and St. Eulalia for many decades. It was built from 1298 to 1420 and was consecrated in the name of the patroness of these places. Today it is the residence of the archbishop. The height of the temple reaches 70 meters, which makes it easy to find it from almost anywhere.

In the same part you can also look into the Basilica of Santa Maria Del Pi. It was built in the 14th century, destroyed by the civil war, but later restored.

Closer to Columbus Avenue you can find a basilica called La Merce. It appeared in the 18th century on the remains of an even older church of St. Michael. Today the basilica is consecrated in honor of Our Lady of Mercy.

The church of Sant Just i Pastor is considered one of the most ancient. The first records about it date back to the 9th century.

In addition to religious buildings, you can find many other interesting objects here. Almost in the center is St. James Square. Before our era, there was a Roman forum in its place and the main roads of this settlement of the ancient Romans intersected. At the current stage, the square continues to play an important state role: the government palace and the city hall building were built here.

The King's Square is no less significant. It was designed much later - in the 19th century, and therefore was no longer made in the canons of Gothic, but in the canons of classicism. The buildings framing it are decorated with light arches, and the square itself is decorated with fountains and palm trees.

Nearby is also famous bridge sighs. It can be considered quite young - the bridge was erected between the buildings of the Government House and the presidential residence only in 1926. The idea, which was aimed simply at facilitating access from one government office to another, was implemented in the neo-Gothic style. The townspeople really liked the bridge, and couples quickly fell in love with it, which is why it got its name.

Of historical value are the remains of the Roman wall, which in the era Ancient Rome defended the local settlement. They are scattered along different streets and, while walking, you can constantly discover more and more new fragments of this structure.

Also interesting is the special Jewish quarter, once, back in the 12th-13th centuries, inhabited only by people of this nationality. These streets flourished with trade and crafts until persecution began against the Jews and they were forced to leave Barcelona.

Here you can also visit one of the main museums of the city - the Museum of the History of Barcelona. The exhibition tells the story of these lands from the times of Ancient Rome to the present day. The museum's opening hours are from Tuesday to Sunday, so any traveler has many chances to get into it. The entrance fee is about 8-10 euros ( ~320 rub. ) per person.

You can also plunge into the past by visiting the Frederic Mares Museum. Here everyone can get acquainted with a large collection of sculptural sculptures created both in antiquity and over the past century.

This series of museums continues with a gallery in which the Middle Ages, felt in all other buildings, recedes. Villa de Arte contains works of contemporary artists who worked and are working in the past and present centuries and are continuers of the traditions of Dali, Picasso and Gaudi.

Sights of the Gothic Quarter on the map

Approximate route through the Gothic Quarter

There are a great many options for plans and routes by which you can explore this territory. Each guidebook offers travelers its own variations of an already known route, but, more often than not, the cathedral becomes the central point of all walks.

Often the start walking route choose Plaza Catalunya;
At the very border of the quarter, you can visit the parish of St. Anne, after which, moving further south, deviate slightly from the route to look into the Four Cats cafe;
From here it is worth continuing the path to the center, where the cathedral is located;
A couple of minutes from it you can find the Bridge of Sighs, and then turn a little west to reach Santa Maria del Pi;
From this temple, along the narrow streets, you can return to the center and exit to St. James Square, or you can walk a little south and end up at King’s Square;
In any case, the further path should be kept, oriented to the south. In this case, you will be able to easily cover all the significant sights, take memorable photos and end your short trip on the shore;

Working hours

This area is accessible at any time of the day. You can stroll along its streets both during the day and at night. However, most of the historical buildings that are of interest to visit are closed in the evening. But at the same time, here you can find many different nightlife establishments where both travelers and local young people relax.

Where to eat

One of the most atmospheric places in this part of the city, where you can also grab a bite to eat, is the Four Cats cafe. It dates back to the 19th century. Then, on these streets, it was founded by Pere Romeo, an artist who sought to create a cafe similar to the Parisian cabaret “Black Cat”. It became famous due to the fact that Pablo Picasso himself was a frequent visitor here. Today you can find this cafe at Carrer de Montsió, 3.

In addition, you can find more modern places for lunch here. For example, not far from Plaza Catalunya there is a cafe worldwide famous network Hard Rock Café, there is a McDonald's within walking distance from the Liceu metro station.

For those who prefer more refined dining options, there are numerous restaurants scattered along the narrow streets, some of which will even pleasantly surprise you with their prices. Here you can find both examples of national Spanish cuisine and separate restaurants seafood cuisine or vegetarian dishes. In addition, on almost any street you can find tea shops, pastry shops and various bars.

Safety

According to reviews and statistics, Barcelona is classified as a city with a medium level of danger. You can walk through the streets of the Old Town calmly, especially if you remember some precautions. Since the Gothic Quarter is a popular and crowded place, it may well become a platform for petty thefts. Therefore, travelers should pay special attention to personal belongings, keep their wallet in a safe place and not be distracted by groups of suspicious passers-by who are trying to grab attention, for example, by asking for directions.
It is better to avoid large jewelry made of precious metals. It can be dangerous for girls to walk in them at night, especially if we're talking about about the narrow streets of the old center.
If there is a need to contact law enforcement officers, then it is better to look for them at the police department, which will be nearby. There are often cases when police officers working on the streets turned out to be not representatives of the law at all.

Residential buildings in the Jewish Quarter have interesting feature. The persecution that began forced residents to look for ways to protect themselves, so a secret door appeared in almost every house. Usually it led to underground passages, which made it possible to get beyond the boundaries of the fortress wall. In many ancient buildings, these doors have been preserved to this day, and some of them can even be seen during a special tour that tells what secrets they hide.
Every year, on the territory of the Gothic quarter, namely on St. James Square, a festival is held to build castels - high pyramids of people standing on top of each other.
The popularity of this place was added more than a decade ago by the acclaimed film “Perfume. The story of a murderer." After all, it was here that many episodes were filmed. Travelers still come here to this day in search of that same perfumer’s house.

Virtual tour of the Gothic Quarter

This complex of unique buildings contains the true heart of these lands. Here lives its past and its present, which, cleverly intertwined, create a special atmosphere inherent only in an ancient European town.

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Carrer del Bisbe Bridge

How the block was built

Not all objects of the Gothic quarter appeared here in the Middle Ages, during the heyday of the union of the state of the Aragonese Crown, of which the Principality of Catalonia was an important part. The first surviving stone objects were built in antiquity - these are the ruins of the city wall, the palace of Octavian Augustus and the aqueduct in the vicinity of Tapineria Street and New Square. The territory of the future Gothic Quarter of Barcelona was most actively developed in the 13th-14th centuries, but since then Barcelona has gone through a series of historical and natural disasters. Ancient houses burned, came under fire, and were destroyed by earthquakes. As a result, by the 20th century, most of the buildings that had been rebuilt several times required global reconstruction. Modern architectural monuments are a fusion of Gothic, neoclassical and neo-Gothic, complemented by the skillful work of restorers.

Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia

Gothic buildings and squares

The Gothic Quarter of Barcelona has generally retained its medieval layout, although many areas have been expanded by demolishing old buildings. The most popular tourist sites include the Cathedral of St. Eulalia, New Square, and the Church of Santa Maria del Pi.

Church of Santa Maria del Pi

Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia

The majestic, richly decorated cathedral, seat of the Bishop of Barcelona, in the center of the quarter houses the relics of a 14-year-old Christian girl who suffered at the hands of pagans in the 4th century. The temple's carved spiers inspired Antoni Gaudi's Sagrada Familia project. The interior of the cathedral is no less luxurious than the facade; in the courtyard with a fountain and a miniature garden, visible to visitors, they contain white geese, symbolizing the purity and innocence of Saint Eulalia. The cathedral is open to tourists from 8:00 to 19:30.

Church of Santa Maria del Pi

Located near the Liceu metro station, the 14th-century building is distinguished by its simple form. The stone facade is decorated only with a giant 10-meter rosette, restored to its original form 80 years ago, and a pointed arch above the entrance. Guests and believers are welcome in the temple from 9:30 to 20:30. The historic interior of the church was seriously damaged during fires and civil war in Spain, only the seats in the 18th century in the Rococo style have survived, the altar is modern neo-Gothic.

The name should not confuse tourists: in fact, this is the oldest square in Barcelona, completely built up in the 14th century. This is one of the most eclectic architectural ensembles of the Catalan capital. This was once the outskirts of a Roman settlement, where aqueducts began, the ruins of which can still be seen today. Near ancient ruins the medieval Archdeacon's House with modernized gloomy fortification towers is located. The College of Architecture, on the other side of New Square, is decorated with modern “rock paintings” - cheerful, stylized images of people.

Sights of later eras

Craftsmen of past centuries erected new buildings on ruins that could not be restored. Among such works of architecture is the Basilica of Saints Justus and Pastor, located 100 m south of the Jaume I metro station: the facades were rebuilt in the neo-Gothic style, the interior became neoclassical. The 17th-century Church of San Felipe Neri is famous for its Baroque reliefs and sculptures on its façade. Near Columbus Avenue stands the La Merce Church, built in the 18th century on the ruins of a Gothic temple. It is famous among pilgrims for the wooden figure of Our Lady of Mercy kept inside. This is one of the most revered Catholic sites in the city, receiving the privileged status of a minor basilica along with the Church of Santa Maria del Pi and the Cathedral of Saint Eulalia. On September 23, a religious procession in honor of the sculpture is organized annually. A secular landmark, the Royal Square with its fountain, lanterns designed by Antoni Gaudi, and powerful palm trees appeared only in the 19th century, but this does not prevent it from being a favorite vacation spot for native Barcelonans.

Royal Square of Barcelona

Entrance to the wax museum

Museums of the Gothic Quarter

Museum of Erotica in Barcelona

Thematic variety of museums historical center Barcelona satisfies the tastes of the most discerning guests of the city. Exhibition Center Gaudi with the Diocesan Museum of Barcelona together with the Art Museum and the Museum of Frederic Mares, the famous Catalan sculptor, is open a few tens of meters from the Cathedral of the Holy Cross. The Erotic Museum operates near St. Joseph Boulevard, famous for its flower shops. The wax museum awaits visitors on the approach to Columbus Avenue.

Events in the Gothic Quarter

The small hall of the thousand-year-old Church of St. Anne is used for concerts by masters of the Spanish guitar. On Sundays, on St. James Square, everyone takes part in round dances-sardanas to the sounds of orchestras of folk instruments. On festival days, competitions in the construction of pyramid-castels are also held here. Construction material the participants of the competition themselves become for them: 8-10 strong men are placed at the base, representatives of the next level climb onto their backs, and so on up to 10 floors.

Giant's Ball in St. James Square

Tourist information

On the borders of the Gothic Quarter there are metro stations line 3 Liceu and line 4 Jaume I. This is a convenient place to start exploring Barcelona: the city's main attractions are located within a 2 km radius. Restaurants and cafes are open literally at every step: a wide range of establishments are presented national cuisine, thematic projects, such as rock cafes, jazz clubs and the art cabaret “4 Cats”. Once upon a time, young Picasso exhibited here and Albeniz played. Today, the owners of the cabaret are trying to recreate the bohemian atmosphere of the early 20th century: live piano music plays until one in the morning, and performances by artists take place. The number of boutiques representing world brands is not inferior to the number of restaurants. There are many small but quite expensive hotels in the area.

The Gothic Quarter in Barcelona is the central part of the old city and a popular attraction. What do the narrow streets of Barri Gotic hide?

A gallery connecting the houses.
Photo: flickr.com/jcorrius

In the heart of Barcelona

The Gothic Quarter is located between the Rambla and via Laietana. The tourist route along it usually starts from Plaza Catalunya and goes to the port. Behind centuries-old history The city quarter has always been at the epicenter of events and has changed its appearance more than once. This area received its name at the beginning of the 20th century. for the largest architectural complex of the 13th-16th centuries in Europe. in Gothic style. Most of the buildings were built during the reign and peak of the dynasty of the Crown of Aragon.

Gothic Quarter - sample medieval city with a labyrinth of narrow streets. It's easy to get lost here.

Walking through the labyrinthine streets of the Gothic Quarter is dark but exciting.
Photo: liveinternet.ru

“The Gothic Quarter is a very special place. Damp, dirty streets where the sun's rays do not reach. There are many Chinese and Arabs who have settled in the houses here. All this against the backdrop of Barcelona's history. The most interesting place is the Cathedral. When there is no service, you can get here for free. And there are also many atmospheric establishments that are interesting to visit.”

by metro: to Liceu or Jaume I stations;
on tourist bus: to the Barri Gotic stop;
You can get there on foot from , crossing the road to the Rock Café, and then to the end of Rivadeneyra street.

How do you get to the Gothic Quarter?
Photo: flickr.com/marimbajlamesa

Every lane has a story

When walking through Barri Gotic, take a map with you to check the route.

For a walk - only with a map.
Photo: quetiempo.es

New Square

Placa Nova is the first attraction on a tourist's route. Part of the Roman protective walls with columns has been preserved here, behind which until the 13th century. the Roman settlement of Barsino was located. Note the Baroque Bishop's Palace and the Archdeacon's House. The house with the remains of the fortress wall combines several architectural styles. A quaint 1895 mailbox hangs on the house. The building now houses the city archive.

New Square - popular place for meetings.
Photo: panoramio.com

Cathedral

Adjacent to Novaya Cathedral Square(Pla de la Seu). Cathedral of St. Cross and St. Eulampia (XIII-XIX centuries) with a Gothic facade is the main value of the quarter. The cathedral is dedicated to the great martyr, patroness of Barcelona, Eulampia, who died at the hands of the pagans. In memory of 13-year-old Evlampia, symbolizing her innocence, 13 geese live in the courtyard of the cathedral.

Geese in the courtyard of the Cathedral of St. Eulampia.
Photo: travelphotogallery.net

City Hall and Parliament

Next, follow to Placa Sant Jaume, where you will see the city hall and the Catalan Parliament, built in the 15th century. The facade of parliament is decorated with a statue of St. St. George the Victorious. In the Gothic courtyard, surrounded by stone buildings, orange trees grow and bear fruit.

City Hall and Parliament of Catalonia.
Photo: okoguide.com

King's Square

Along Carrer del Veguer we get to the King's Square (Placa del Rei) with Royal Palace XII century Here King Ferdinand received Columbus, who returned from his first voyage. And here it is historical Museum. The most valuable “exhibit” is an archaeological excavation site with preserved elements of streets, houses, shops, temples from different eras.

King's Square during the rain.
Photo: flickr.com/montse-poch

Frederic Mares Museum

The sculptor Mares had a passion for collecting and collected literally everything. His unusual collection is a gift to the city.

Frederic Mares Museum.
Photo: totenart.com

Roman columns

Following the Carrer del Paradis you will reach the remains of a 2nd century temple. Four gigantic Roman columns hid behind the doors of the excursion center. Squeezed between the walls of the house, they surprise simply with their presence.

Roman columns are so tall.
Photo: flickr.com/jrthibault

Houses of the Jews

Carrer del Call street will lead to the Jewish Quarter, where until the 15th century. Jews lived and were cruelly oppressed. Some houses still have secret doors. During the raids, people went through underground passages outside the city wall.

The Jewish Quarter has narrow streets.
Photo: ojodigital.com

The atmosphere is the main thing

In addition to the ancient architecture, the atmosphere of the Gothic Quarter is interesting. People come here to experience the spirit of Barcelona.

Artists and musicians, bakers, grocers, second-hand book dealers and antique dealers have long lived in these houses. Today they play in the streets, dance flamenco, read poetry, and draw cartoons. Neighboring in the block best restaurants and tiny cafes, fashion shops and souvenir shops. The excitement does not subside until late at night, when bars and popular discos open. Many tourists choose the evening hours for a tour of the Gothic Quarter. Night walks are a special entertainment for those who want to tickle their nerves.

The Gothic Quarter is crowded at night.
Photo: devourbarcelonafoodtours.com

“We lived in the center of the Gothic Quarter, so we often walked here even at night. Narrow streets, shutters, graffiti, gloomy buildings. It seems like there's a gargoyle waiting for you around every corner. In general, this is an attraction for adrenaline lovers. They say it is unsafe here at night. Just like during the day, in a crowd, you should be wary of pickpockets, beggars and thieves.”

The Gothic Quarter is shrouded in hundreds of urban legends. Despite the fact that this area of the city is included in the standard sightseeing tours in Barcelona, we advise you to take a walk around the area with personal guide. You can find non-standard ones on the Internet walking tours, including evening ones, with visits to legendary shops, shops, cafes, with incredible stories about what once happened on the streets of the Gothic Quarter.

Gargoyles look scary.
Photo: barcelona-home.com

"They took individual tour. The cost per family was 100 euros. We walked around the Gothic Quarter for two hours, turning into its darkest corners. We really liked it, our teenage son was especially impressed. A walk on your own wouldn't be as informative. In addition, there are no information boards or stands for tourists in the quarter.”

Check points

In addition to architectural attractions, the Gothic Quarter has several interesting places, which is definitely worth a look.

Art cafe Quatro Gats

At the beginning of the last century, the entire creative elite gathered in the legendary cafe. Pablo Picasso held his first exhibition in the cafe. He also designed the menu, which remains unchanged to this day. Here you can drink some of the best coffee in town and admire the interior. But the kitchen is not very praised.

The famous "Tandem" in the art cafe "4 cats".
Photo: datuopinion.com

Museum of Antique Shoes

Here you can see shoes and different technologies for their production throughout the long history of shoemaking. Among the interesting exhibits are shoes of famous Spaniards and boots made for the statue of Columbus. Ticket price - 2.5 euros.

I wonder who this size would suit?
Photo: panoramio.com

Jazz Club Harlem

Music bar in the center of the Gothic Quarter. Every evening, except Sunday and Monday, there are concerts where music is played different directions. The bar plays rock, blues, swing, flamenco. Listen and dance music lovers come from all over Barcelona. Entrance - 6-10 euros depending on the program.

At a concert in Harlem
Photo: catalunyaguide.com

Confectionery Caelum

Stop by for some baked goods turrones, sweets and other delicacies prepared by the monastery servants.

And how can you keep track of your figure?
Photo: therestauralist.blogspot.ru

Vintage boutique L'arcadel'avia

"Granny's Chest" is a family store and tailoring studio, like free museum textile fashion. Outfits for the films “Titanic” and “Vicky” were sewn here. Christina. Barcelona", "Perfume".

There are so many beautiful and unusual things here!
Photo: trendslabbcn.blogspot.ru

By the way, one of the scenes of “Perfume” was filmed nearby - on San Felip Neri Square.

Not far from here is where you can walk through the tunnel with a shark and see the rich undersea world Mediterranean Sea. Then go to the nearest one - swim in the warm waters and sunbathe, lying on the golden fine sand.

Where to stay?

The Gothic Quarter is a great place to stay in Barcelona. From here you can walk to. Historic District cities are a choice for those interested in walking and... It is in the Gothic Quarter that you have the chance to live in an old mansion. There are hotels of different star ratings here, as well as a large selection of apartments. Features of hotels in this area are a roof terrace, small rooms, lack of parking, noise on the streets during the day and evening hours.

Relaxing on the hotel's rooftop terrace is wonderful.
Photo: pinterest.com/wegnerinc

Here are some hotels with good reviews tourists located in the Barri Gotic area:

Aparthotel Arai 4* S Monument

From 240 euros*.

The hotel is located in an 18th century building. The ambience is maintained by exposed stone walls in the cozy rooms. The hotel has a swimming pool, sauna, roof terrace. The building houses a classic Palosanto tavern.

We suggest you make virtual tour along the Arai 4* apart-hotel and the adjacent streets.

Regencia Colon 3*

From 120 euros.

The hotel is in the very center of the quarter, behind the Cathedral. Spacious country style rooms with balcony. There is a fireplace in the hall.

Photo: booking.com

Condal 2*

From 110 euros.

The hotel has been in operation since 1850. Located in a quiet side street just off the Rambla. Modest, cozy rooms with all amenities in a simple, classic style.

Take a virtual tour of the Condal 2* hotel.

*Prices shown are in high season behind Double Room with 1 or 2 beds.

When going on a trip, everyone would like to save on accommodation. Based on reviews from tourists, we have prepared a review of five in the central part of Barcelona, located nearby.

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The heart of Barcelona, Barri Gotic, surprises tourists with its treasures: this and architectural structures of different millennia, coexisting on the same street, and atmospheric establishments: cafes, shops, bars - and rich street life. Turn off la Rambla deeper into the neighborhood to find something interesting for yourself.

Gothic Quarter (Barcelona, Spain) - description, history, location, reviews, photos and videos.

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Once the very center of Barcelona and the center of all its medieval attractions, the Gothic Quarter is located between La Rambla and Calle Laietana. Despite the fact that many buildings here date back to the 14th and 15th centuries, the Gothic Quarter has plenty of cozy restaurants, expensive shops, and lively nightclubs. The layout of the area is a web of narrow streets, many of which are pedestrian, meeting in rectangular squares, surrounded on all sides by back-to-back buildings. Among the most attractive are St. James Square, which dates back to ancient times, shady Reyal and cozy Del Rey.

Sights of the Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter remembers the sandals of Roman legionnaires, the hustle and bustle of the motley crowd that filled the narrow streets in the Middle Ages, and the triumphal procession of the soldiers of Philip V, who took Barcelona in the early 18th century after a long siege.

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Cathedral

The central building of the quarter is the majestic Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, built according to the design of J. Fabray in 1298. It is simply impossible to photograph it in its entirety - the highest spire rises to 93 m, and the length of the facade exceeds 40 m. The architecture of the building is elegant and at the same time massive Gothic style in the Catalan style with towers rising into the sky, multi-level arches and openwork ornamentation of the walls.

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Square Saint James (San Jaume)

The central square of the Gothic Quarter, St. James (Placa de Sant Jaume), is located on the site of the Roman forum and the intersection of the main roads of Barsino. Today it is decorated with the buildings of the city hall, made in a neoclassical style, and the Renaissance Palace of the Government of Catalonia with a cozy orange courtyard. On Sant Jaume there is a festival-competition for the construction of castells - towers of people, and on Sundays residents come here to dance the national dance Sardana.

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Bridge of Sighs

Bridge of Sighs (Pont dels Sospirs, or “lace bridge”) - business card district, it is this area that can most often be seen on postcards with the caption “Gothic Quarter”. The bridge was built in the 20s of the 20th century by the architect Jean Rubio. And its goal is to connect the residence of the President of Catalonia and the Government Palace. The bridge is located on Carrer del Bisbe Street, next to the Cathedral.

Basilica of Le Mercay

The Church of Our Lady of Mercy was built in the 18th century on the ruins of a medieval Gothic temple.

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Basilica of Santa Maria del Pi

The 14th century cathedral is a national cultural heritage of Catalonia. The literal translation of the name of the temple means “Church of the Mother of God from pine.” Alas, the walls of the ancient basilica were damaged during the Spanish Civil War in 1936 and were later restored in a more modern decorative Gothic style.

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Remains of the Roman wall

Once upon a time, the Roman colony of Barsino was reliably protected from attack by powerful walls. Even today, the ruins of these structures look very convincing. They suddenly appear in the most different places, diluting the urban landscape - quite large areas are located on Avenida Catedral, Plaza Nova and Correu Vell. Most city residents do not even know where exactly these structures are located and are surprised when they accidentally stumble upon them while walking.

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Church of Sant Just i Pastor

The church is famous for the fact that references to it are kept in documents dating back to the 9th century. The last time it was reconstructed was in the 14th-15th centuries, and since then it has been appearance remained virtually unchanged.

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Royal Square

The architecture of Plaza Real is no longer Gothic, but aristocratic classicism: slender arches instead of rough facades, graceful fountains and large spaces instead of narrow streets and lancet windows. The appearance of the square stands out strongly against the background of the general development, as it was designed and built in the 19th century by order of the wealthiest and most influential residents of the city.

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Jewish Quarter

In the 13th century Jewish community Barcelona was considered the richest, but after 200 years the sons of Moses were expelled from the city in the wake of pan-European hysteria directed against this people. Today, the streets of the small El Col district, lost in the labyrinths of the Gothic Quarter, are living evidence of its former prosperity. The medieval atmosphere still reigns here, with street musicians performing and antique shops operating.

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Barcelona History Museum

The collections of the Barcelona History Museum provide visitors with a colorful historical panorama, covering a wide period of time from the Roman Empire to the Great geographical discoveries. The main branch of the institution is located in a 15th century palace - a real “stone bag” with secret courtyards and thick walls. Here, behind glass display cases, unique artifacts are stored: ruins of ancient buildings, fragments of Visigoth temples and episcopal castles, as well as dishes, jewelry and interior items found during excavations.

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Frederic Mares Museum

The local collection is also often called the “Sentimental Museum”, and it consists mostly of sculptures from the ancient Roman period to the 20th century.

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Gallery Villa de Arte

The cultural heritage of Barcelona is not only antiquities and classical art familiar to the eye. There are many contemporary artists in the city who continue the work of Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso. The halls of Villa de Arte display original works by masters of our time; in the courtyard of the museum, visitors can examine unusual sculptures.

"Peace is born with every kiss"

And you really begin to believe in this statement as soon as you find yourself in front of the gigantic photo mosaic of the famous Catalan photographer João Fontcubert. Each piece of the mosaic is a small photograph of happy moments from the life of the townspeople, which were presented to the artist while working on the wall. The mosaic is located in the park opposite the Cathedral.

Approximate route through the Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter is bounded by Rambla, Via Laietana, Plaza Catalunya and Avenue Columba, which runs along the embankment. If you enter its territory from the north, then, bypassing Paseo de Gracia and the famous cafe “Four Cats” (Els 4 gats), you can immediately go to Cathedral. It’s worth telling about the cafe separately: the establishment was opened in the 19th century by the then famous modernist artist Pere Romeo, by analogy with the famous cabaret in Paris “The Black Cat”. The famous Pablo Picasso was a regular at 4 Cats.

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Coming out to the Cathedral, you can turn right, where St. James Square and the Jewish Quarter are located, or left, towards the Museum of the History of Barcelona and the Villa de Arte Gallery. To view the Roman wall, from the temple you need to go straight along Carrer de la Ciutat. The Royal Square is located next to the Rambla, almost opposite the Liceu Palace.

How to get there

Many travelers prefer to settle in the Gothic Quarter itself, but at night you can hardly sleep peacefully here - Catalan youth, along with tourists, like to have noisy fun until the morning.

To get here from the neighboring districts of Raval (from La Rambla) and Born (from Via Laietana), as well as from the embankment, just turn into any alley. The most famous and well-trodden road leads directly from the square. Catalonia.