One of the most interesting cities in Europe cannot but captivate with the beauty of its architecture, an abundance of unique monuments, and a peculiar atmosphere. Catalans adore their capital, keep the city in extraordinary cleanliness, sacredly honor the memory of prominent personalities of Barcelona. The history of the Middle Ages is captured in the ancient temples and ancient buildings of the Gothic Quarter. Barcelona can be visited many times, and it always gives new impressions. There is something to be surprised at and something to admire in it. What are the architectural masterpieces of Gaudi. How beautiful are its parks and squares, squares and fountains. You can admire this city endlessly. The viewpoints of Barcelona help you to see the whole stunning panorama, of which there are plenty in it.
Columbus monument
Walking towards the sea along the main pedestrian street Rambla, you will not be able to get around the small square in the form of the Portal de la Pau circle. In the center of it rises a majestic column, crowned from above with a statue of the great navigator Columbus. The expressive hand gesture of the bronze Columbus is directed towards the embankment, to which the ships of his expedition to the West Indies docked. The amazing 7-meter high monument by the sculptor Atche was erected in connection with the World Exhibition on June 1, 1888.
The 60 m high column plays the role of an observation tower, inside of which an elevator operates. Today, the Columbus monument is a popular viewing platform for tourists, receiving visitors from 08.30 to 20.30. Every day hundreds of guests ascend to a height of 60 m to admire a truly magical panorama. From the north, the temple buildings of the Gothic Quarter are stunning, while the blue of the Mediterranean sparkles with rows of yachts and boats to the west.
The palm tree lane of the embankment, the skyscrapers of the Porta Olympic twin towers complete the amazing picture. A little further, solar panels play with shine in Forum Park. In the south, you can see the green massif of the park on Montjuïc Mountain. In the eastern part of the city, the mountain landscapes of Tibidabo stretch, the domes of the Temple of the Sacred Heart are visible.
Mount Tibidabo
Probably, the fact that the city of Tibidabo is the highest observation point in Barcelona (512 m.) Is God's craft. From the top of the mountain, you can see all the irresistible beauty spreading below. According to legend, they were watched by Jesus Christ, whose statue and temple are installed here. Although the path to Tibidabo is not easy, it is definitely worth a visit to see the unique old and modern objects.
You can climb on foot along the paved paths (for trained tourists), on the funicular, the bus "Tibibas" from the square. Catalonia or by taxi. The "blue tram" (Tibidabo airplane) brings visitors to the funicular. Traveling on it and on the funicular is already an exciting adventure. Staying on the mountain will give a lot of positive emotions, the brightest impressions and delights. Here is the oldest amusement park in the world with 19th century attractions, carefully preserved and safe to this day.
A visit to it will delight both children and adults. In the picturesque park-reserve (next to the mountain) you can organize a picnic, so it is worth bringing a set of food with you. If you expect to spend the whole day here, there is an opportunity to go to local museums or a cinema / theater. The main purpose of the visit is to see an unforgettable panorama of the city from a height. This can be done from 3 viewing platforms: at the feet of Christ at the Church of the Sacred Heart, from the Collserola television tower and the Fabre Observatory.
Temple of the Sacred Heart
In the place where, according to legend, the devil tempted Christ with money in a monastery, the temple of the Sacred Heart was erected. The name of the mountain is also shrouded in belief: the words "I give you" were pronounced by Satan. The eponymous holiday is celebrated by Catholics on the 13th day after Trinity. The project of an unusually beautiful and graceful Gothic building was developed by the architect Sagneru. Since the construction lasted for 60 years, the author did not live to see the completion of his brainchild, and his son continued the work.
Many pointed domes are directed into the sky, and the central dome is crowned with a statue of Christ. The outstretched arms of the Savior, soaring high on the central dome of the temple, seem to embrace the surrounding space. The appearance of the temple clearly shows the features of the Gothic style, architectural monumentalism and Byzantine motives.
The spectacle of the majestic structure against the backdrop of foothill landscapes and the blue sky is mesmerizing. 2 spiral staircases lead from the base of the basilica up to the statue of Christ, where an observation deck is equipped at his feet at an altitude of 572 m. The whole world is at your feet, - otherwise it cannot be said, having risen here and seeing a beautiful picture below. The interior of the sanctuary will not disappoint either. It is noteworthy that along with old icons there are modern icon-painting works.
Collserola TV Tower
In preparation for the 1992 Olympics, a television tower of the same name appeared on Mount Tibidabo in the Collserola park. This building, unusual in its form, still never ceases to amaze tourists. The project of a kind of tower was carried out by the British architect Foster, Spanish engineers Calson and Villardel.
The 13-storey skyscraper looks like a 288-meter rod-igloo, with a glazed ring gallery located at a height of 135 meters. It serves as an observation deck where guests go up every day. The rise of tourists is carried out by a panoramic glass elevator. In 2.5 minutes, visitors are on the site - the speed of the elevator is so high.
Judging by the reviews, when you get up, you experience the same sensations as on an airplane: "lays down" your ears and catches your breath. It is difficult to describe in words the impressions when from a bird's eye view you see monumental structures that look like toys. Even the famous Sagrada Familia temple, the huge Camp Nou stadium, looking like small copies. However, it is possible to examine in detail the iconic objects through the observation telescopes located in the gallery.
Sagrada Familia
Just as Paris is associated with the Eiffel Tower, Barcelona is identified with the Sagrada Familia (Sagrada Familia). But if there are copies of the Eiffel Tower in the world, then the Sagrada Familia cannot be reproduced in reality. This truly unique structure, created by the genius creator Antoni Gaudi, cannot be copied as a piece object. Gaudi devoted 43 years of his life to his "architectural poem", the construction of which continues to this day.
Looking at this masterpiece from the outside, it is hard to believe that it was built by human hands, and not by the wave of a magic wand. The whole world admires the intricate structure and admires the talent of an extraordinary artist. The bouquet of architectural styles embodied in the temple harmoniously fits into the overall entourage of the majestic complex. Graceful Gothic towers lined with majolica, baroque facade decorations, modern diagonal supports - everything is harmoniously interconnected.
A huge number of designs are combined into one whole not chaotically, but by logical transitions, lines and details. Every day, hundreds of pilgrims strive to visit the Sagrada Familia, take an elevator to the observation deck. It is quite small, so you have to stand in line for a long time, but this does not bother people who are eager to go upstairs.
Park Guell
An architectural and landscape miracle, also created by Gaudi's imagination, Park Guell, was founded in the first year of the 20th century on 62 hectares of the outskirts of Barcelona. The wealthy businessman Guell planned to sell plots of land for the construction of private houses with gardens, but the project was not fully implemented. The fate of the site was in the hands of Gaudi, who built his house here and created another masterpiece from unnecessary land.As a result of the grandiose work, an object appeared that strikes the imagination with "miracles" that cannot be seen elsewhere.
It is noteworthy that even rubbish was used for their decoration: shards of glass, ceramic tiles, porcelain, tiles. They laid out, for example, a parapet-bench in the form of a writhing lizard at the entrance to the park. The first collage made of rubbish served as an example for abstract artists in Europe. Each fabulous building in Park Guell makes you wonder and admire. Gingerbread houses with sugar-coated roofs and brown walls seem edible.
The magnificent hall on the hillside with 86 columns-pillars, decorated with blue splashes of glass fragments from vials, is amazing. Music concerts are held in the hall with excellent acoustics. In the free zone in the "Three Crosses" area of the park, there are observation platforms, from where the beauty of Barcelona can be seen at a glance. Local musicians captivate with their Spanish guitar playing, adding to the delightful viewing experience. The people, enchanted by the "Gaudí fairy tale", arrive here in droves every day.
Arena of Barcelona
On the Plaza de España, there is a beautiful round-shaped building of red brick, built for the favorite entertainment of the Spaniards - bullfighting. To the right of it is the Fazhol house with a facade decorated with the famous Butterfly. Today, when the dangerous art of bullfighting is prohibited in Barcelona, the building has been rebuilt into the Barcelona Arena shopping center. It houses a variety of shops selling consumer goods, a large supermarket has been opened.
There is an observation deck at the top of the building, which can be reached by a paid elevator (1 euro). From above, you can see the Spanish Square with all its attractions. You can admire the picturesque park adjacent to the building of the shopping center, see the famous sculpture by Moro "Woman and Bird". On the opposite side of the square, you will see a magnificent palace surrounded by fountains - the Museum of Catalan Art. Going downstairs, you can view its expositions, which cannot disappoint.
National Palace
Examining the magnificent facades of the National Palace, you understand the important role of International Exhibitions in the development of European cities. How many architectural and cultural objects have appeared in them thanks to exhibitions. It was for the MW 1929 that the National Palace on Montjuïc was built in the capital of Catalonia. The guests of the exhibition could not help but admire the stately beauty and pomp of the palace building, and today it continues to amaze with its magnificence.
A 3-stage cascade descends from the palace, along which the streams of the main fountain pour. The fountain equipped in 1929 was given musical accompaniment in 1990. In the evening, when 3620 jets are illuminated in different colors, music sounds, the fountain becomes a magical sight. Within the walls of the palace is the National Museum of Art, with a rich collection of paintings and sculptures. From the palace square, an absolutely stunning panorama of the city opens up as a great addition to the inspection of the palace and the museum.
Fortress Montjuic
Another visiting card is the ancient fortress of Montjuïc, the first mention of which dates back to the 11th century. She grew up from a watchtower-lighthouse, from where the traffic at sea was monitored. From one tower in 30 days, the fortress of Montjuïc emerged in 1640 during the era of the "war of the reapers" or the Segadorian uprising, when the Catalans opposed the centralized policy of King Philip IV. The fortress became a symbol of the selfless struggle of the Catalans for independence, described in many works of Spanish literature.
The citadel has been rebuilt more than once, but today it does not give the impression of a very powerful structure. From it there are ancient walls, authentic cannons, a waving Catalan flag. Climbing to the castle - an interesting journey through the cactus park, past the fountain and small viewing platforms from which you can make unmatched shots. Climbing up to the fortress, from a height you will enjoy a grandiose picture of the picturesque surroundings, which make the deepest aesthetic impression.
EL Carmel silo roof
There is a place that symbolizes a difficult stage in the history of Spain - the civil war at the end of the 30s of the last century. This is a former bunker, which became the "heart" of the defensive battles of the Catalans. After the end of the war, the fortification, located at a high altitude, lost its role and turned into one of the best viewing platforms in the city. Climbing to the roof of the bunker, you can view an irresistible panorama from 4 sides.
The picture spread out below is beautiful at any time of the day. In the early morning in a misty haze, illuminated by a bright sun during the day or shimmering with electric lights in the evening, it captures the imagination. There are always visitors here; local youth, foreign tourists, people of all ages. Many who are physically enabled go on foot. Those who do not rely on their strength come here by bus # 24 or by taxi. To double your viewing pleasure, you can bring a bottle of wine and sandwiches with you.
Roof of the Barselo Raval Hotel
On the Rambla del Raval, in the picturesque international district of the city, is the 4-star Hotel Barselo Raval. Important sights are located nearby: Plaza Catalunya, the Liceo Opera House, the Boqueria market and the Cathedral. Staying at this hotel is a great success for tourists, especially those who are in the city for the first time. The circular building with an Art Nouveau lobby looks very attractive. Not everyone knows that Raval is a former Barcelona ghetto with a special flavor conveyed in Pedro Almodovar's canvases.
On the 11th floor of the hotel there is a bar with an open circular terrace, open from May to October. A visit to the bar is a must for many tourists. Here guests are treated to various non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, delicious national and Asian dishes are prepared. At dinner, you can admire the surrounding Barcelona views and surroundings to your heart's content. They are especially beautiful at sunset, when everything is bathed in a crimson-gold glow. But during the day, the picture spreading below is also wonderful and delightful.
Torre de Alta Mar Restaurant
If you want to enjoy stunning Mediterranean views from above, then you should visit an extraordinary institution. This is the Torre de Alta Mar restaurant, located in a cozy harbor on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. It is housed in a former cable car station, and its modern décor amazes with the art of design. Mirrored walls, visually expanding the space of the room, repeatedly reflect the beauty of the seascapes. After a beach holiday, you can relax in a pleasant environment with a delicious lunch.
Even the most eminent guests of the city consider it an honor to visit this unique institution. It was visited by the famous singer Shakira, film director and actress Jodie Foster, Spanish football players, artists and actors. An atmosphere of friendly communication, warmth and carefree ease reigns here. It is difficult to take your eyes off the landscape splendor that opens from the restaurant hall. After all, there are the Sea Palace, a monument to Christopher Columbus, and the Sea Palace nearby.
Terraza Martines Restaurant
If you visit this iconic establishment, located on Montjuïc Mountain, at least once, it will become your favorite vacation spot. The Martinez Terrace Restaurant is very popular with gourmets and Spanish tourists. There are always fresh oysters, a variety of salads, delicious seafood dishes. Guests are delighted with branded delicacies: paella, carpaccio, tartars, grilled lobster. The restaurant has a special children's area where little guests can have an interesting time. And parents can calmly indulge in gourmet enjoyment of food and wine tasting against the backdrop of cityscapes.
From here you can see the port, with white yachts, boats, sailing ships. Pleasing to the eye is the luxurious Miramar hotel, with a wonderful garden. The gourmet restaurant was designed by Jose Parrado, a renowned restaurateur and deli. His previously opened restaurant El Canyete has gained frenzied popularity, which has passed on to a new establishment. In it, the entire space is divided into 3 zones: an open terrace, an area for VIPs and a bar room. Famous politicians, journalists, artists, musicians like to relax in the VIP zone. But getting to Martinez is not so easy, so it is better to book a table in advance.
Eleven BCN Rooftop Bar at Calderon Hotel
To see the historical center in all its glory from above is an undoubted success for any tourist. A visit to the rooftop bar terrace of the Calderon Hotel will help you take advantage of this opportunity. The entrance here is available to everyone, not just hotel guests. It is located a few steps from Plaça Catalunya, so finding it is not a problem. Once in the Calderon lobby, call the elevator, press 11, and in a couple of minutes you are at the popular Eleven bar.
Everything in it is conducive to excellent leisure: comfortable sofas with pillows, round tables, light comfortable chairs, excellent service. Excellent varieties of Spanish wines, delicious snacks will be a pleasant addition to your time in this truly wonderful place. Bar guests especially love the cocktails prepared by the bartender Ordonez. The apogee of staying here is the contemplation of the architectural beauty of the Sagrada Familia against the background of the blue mirror of the sea, Mount Tibidabo - everything that makes Barcelona a unique city in the world.
El Corte Inqies Department Store
A paradise for shopaholics, a huge shopping center located on pl. Catalonia deserves undoubted attention. The assortment of goods here is truly universal - from small consumer goods to luxury goods from well-known world firms. Having visited El Corte Inqies, you can fully satisfy the demand using discounts. A 10% discount is provided by a foreigner's bonus card, which is issued upon coming to the store. Judging by the reviews, many tourists buy the necessary things right here.
Another pleasant bonus of visiting the department store is a visit to one of the 3 restaurants located on the top floor of the building. Each of them offers its own menu and style of service. You can choose for yourself the most suitable option for your budget and taste preferences. Guest reviews testify to good cuisine, delicious dishes, large portions and not exorbitant prices. The greatest delight is the opportunity to admire the irresistible panorama of the city from here.
