Globe-trotting With Paolita: Barcelona

Antoni Gaudi (25 June 1852 – 10 June 1926) was a Spanish architect from Catalonia and his unique style of architecture can mostly be found across Barcelona. He is most famous for his work as chief architect on La Sagrada Familia, the unfinished Roman Catholic Church pictured above.

It is the most visited monument in Spain and was declared a World Heritage Site. At the time of Gaudi’s death, less than a quarter of the project was complete. In October 2015, it was announced that 70% of the project had been completed and should be finished by 2026, the centennial of Gaudi’s death.

Influenced by his passions of architecture, nature and religion, Gaudi incorporated various crafts into his work such as ceramics, stained glass, ironwork and carpentry. Park Güell reflects his naturalist phase, a structural richness of forms and volumes, free of rigidity and classic premise.

The Picasso Museum houses 4,251 artworks of Spanish artist Pablo Picasso and is one of the most complete permanent collections of works. The museum opened to the public i 1963, becoming the first museum dedicated to Picasso’s work and the only one created during his lifetime. Jaume Sabartés, a lifelong friend and secretary of Picasso had been given many paintings , drawings and prints by Picasso since 1899 and had intended to open the museum in Málaga, however Picasso suggested Barcelona given his long standing connection to the city.

Alongside the cultural richness of Barcelona, there are beautiful beaches, walk down Las Ramblas and you will end up at the city beach. Enjoy cocktails and delicious tapas as you look out at the sea. Paolita tip: Take the overground train and head up further along the coast, get off at any beach by the train station that takes your fancy and relax away from the busy city crowds!

Trying tapas in Barcelona is a must! ‘Pintxos’ as it’s known there are plates of bit-sized jamón, seafood and vegetables on top of a small slice of bread. Some of our favourite places for great food and beer are Quimet i Quimet, Euskal Etxea and La Cova Fumada.