Do you know what is the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona and its main tourist attractions? We explain them to you!
The current city of Barcelona used to be called Barcino and it was a Roman city. This city began to grow from the epicenter that today we know as the Gothic Quarter. Therefore, knowing this area of Barcelona will allow you to understand the history and the essence of the city that is located on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea.
In Willy’s Plan, we offer a tour of the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, with which you can discover the secrets hidden behind each of the stones that make up this area. In addition, we will explain what to see and what to do in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, either accompanied by a guide or on your own.
Barcelona Cathedral
To be honest, most of the buildings in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter are not Gothic in style, but there are exceptions. The best example is the Cathedral of Santa Creu i Santa Eulalia. Its impressive facade full of details and its 70-meter high dome have become the iconic of this area.
From the Placita de la Seu, you can listen to street musicians before climbing the main staircase and discovering the interior. There you will also find the crypt with the tomb of Saint Eulalia, the choir stalls and the cloister with its 13 geese.
Legend of Saint Eulalia and the 13 geese
Saint Eulalia, patron saint of Barcelona, shepherded geese in Sarriá. After refusing to renounce her Christian faith, she suffered 13 martyrdoms, one for each year of her life. The 13 geese commemorate her sacrifice.
Bonus tip: to get the best views of the Cathedral, you can visit the rooftop of the Hotel Colón. Admission is free (drinks are around 5€), although you may have to wait a bit – this is definitely one of the best buildings to see in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter!
Casa Martí
Another of the best things to see in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona is the Casa Martí, a modernist work with a neo-Gothic style. On its first floor is the famous restaurant Els Quatre Gats. This tavern was built at the end of the 19th century by the textile family Martí Puig, and is inspired by the Parisian cabaret Le Chat Noir, so it became a meeting point for the intellectuals of Barcelona.
Even Pablo Picasso used to frequent this place during his stay in the city. Today, the restaurant is still in operation and offers a renewed menu of dishes and tapas typical of Catalan gastronomy. It is not inexpensive, but its historical value justifies indulging yourself.
Plaza Sant Jaume
Plaza Sant Jaume is the historical and political center of Barcelona, as it is flanked by the City Hall and the Generalitat de Catalunya. This square has witnessed important events throughout the history of the city. We recommend that you take a moment to discover the Pati dels Tarongers (Patio de los Naranjos) in the building of the Generalitat.
The Pont del Bisbe
The Pont del Bisbe is also one of the most iconic images of Barcelona, especially in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. This elevated bridge connects the palace of the Generalitat de Catalunya with the Casa dels Canons. It was built in 1928 by Joan Rubió, a disciple of Gaudí.
When Le Corbusier visited the city in 1930, he harshly criticized the bridge, saying, “How is it possible that in the midst of your admirable Gothic architecture, such a flowery, new and rotten bridge has arisen?” At the time, many Barcelonians also despised it. Today, however, it is a symbol of Barcelona and the Gòtic of Barcelona.
La Rambla in Barcelona
La Rambla is the main avenue of the historic center, which separates the Gothic Quarter from the Raval. This is a must-see promenade in the city and therefore appears on any welcome tour of Barcelona. It is full of flowers, street artists and a very lively atmosphere both day and night. There you will see many restaurants offering the paella + sangria combo, but it is best to avoid them because they are expensive and of poor quality.
Along its 1.2 km, you will find interesting places such as La Boqueria Market, known for its quality products; the Miró mosaic; the Art Deco Chinese dragon of the Umbrella House; the Liceu Theater with its tragic history; the Erotic Museum; the Wax Museum; and the Bosc de les Fades, a bar set in a magical forest.
Basilica of Santa Maria del Pi
The Basilica of Santa Maria del Pi is an example of Gothic art in Barcelona and a must-see in the city. Its interior houses an impressive crypt, an extensive collection of Catalan gold and silverware, a garden, a bell tower and a valuable historical exhibition. The ribbed vault is one of the widest in Spain, and its rose window is the largest in Catalonia.
Plaza del Rey
The Plaza del Rey is located in the center of the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, and is a place where you can discover a fusion between Gothic architecture and history. Here were proclaimed Kings of Aragon Ferdinand II and Isabella I in the 15th century.
The square houses the Palau Reial Major, former residence of the Counts of Barcelona and the Kings of Aragon, with impressive Catalan Gothic architecture. You will also find the Museu d’Història de Barcelona in the Palau del Lloctinent, which explains in detail the city’s past. In addition, the square has tranquil gardens and an ideal atmosphere to relax and enjoy the historic surroundings – taking a break there is one of the best things to do in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter!
Petritxol Street
A visit to Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter is not complete without a stroll down Petritxol Street, known as the street of chocolate and a paradise for lovers of sweets. The aroma of chocolate envelops you upon arrival, inviting you to try delicacies such as the famous Swiss chocolate with churros in its many stores.
Nearby, also in the Gothic city of Barcelona, is the Plaza del Pi, an ideal place for those looking for unique and curious products. Its stores offer a variety of peculiar and original items, perfect for collectors.
We hope our post has helped you to know what to see and what to do in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona. If you are planning your trip to Barcelona, don’t hesitate to check out the tours we offer at Willy’s Plan, as they will help you get to know the city as if you were a real local.
