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When most people think of Barcelona, Spain they think of Gaudi’s architectural wonders, such as the beautiful Sagrada Familia. However, the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona deserves your attention too. Here are just a few highlights.
The 14th-century cathedral is beautiful and worth a visit – check out the main interior (nave), choir, side chapels, crypts, cloister, and chapter house. You can also do a rooftop walk of the Cathedral for a great view overlooking the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. There was some restoration work going on while we were visiting the Cathedral.
The 14th-century Royal Palace in the Gothic Quarter is right next to the Cathedral. It houses some interesting displays and provides a great overview of the history of Barcelona.
Right underneath your feet in the Gothic Quarter are the partially excavated ruins of Barcino, the 1st century B.C. Roman settlement on which modern Barcelona was built. The Barcelona History Museum has done an excellent job creating displays and building walkways over the old streets, houses, and craft shops of Barcino, now all underground. The explanatory signs are in English as well as other languages and are very informative. Wine making and fish processing were important industries in Barcino.
Just down the street (Via Laietana) from the Gothic Quarter is the harbor waterfront (Marina Port Vell) of Barcelona, with a large plaza (Plaça de Correus), numerous cafes, walking paths and gorgeous yachts everywhere. Marina Port Vell calls itself “the premier superyacht marina in Barcelona” and they aren’t kidding!
Note: We spent a full half-day in the Gothic Quarter after arriving on a morning flight from Menorca. Our second day was spent touring the Gaudi sights, and our third day was spent visiting Montserrat Monastery. It was a perfect 3 days in Barcelona! We stayed in Casa Mathilda right in the heart of Barcelona, an excellent small hotel within walking distance of many sights and the metro (subway) system.
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The Gothic Quarter looks amazing! Love how it blends history from Roman ruins to medieval cathedrals.