The Gothic Quarter, Barri Gotic in Catalan, or Old Town of Barcelona where it all started around Roman village of Barcino on the sea shore, stretched along the important routs. You can still see a few remnants of massive Roman walls.
This wrought iron balcony is one of my favorite. It is very typical Barcelonian. One look at this image and I'm back there.
Actually it’s not gothic or medieval strictly speaking, but looks and feels very authentic. Most of the buildings are early 19-th century and are Gothic revivals. Many restored and rebuild in 20 century. Some are really were built in 13-15 centuries like those medieval town houses or palaces which were adjoined to form the Picasso Museum.
Recently published works revealed interesting discoveries stirring a controversy. Even the famous bridge over the Carrer del Bisbe which looks like a flamboyant brother of the famous Ponte dei Sospiri (Bridge of Sighs) in Venice built in early 1600-s. The elaborately carved Bisbe bridge with lacy stone work and amazing woodwork looks like a renaissance creation but in fact was built in 1928. The fine craftsmen didn’t loose their touch over centuries. Quite the contrary.
The winding cobble stone streets and narrow alleys, beautiful street lanterns. It’s not dark and gloomy as one might suggest judging from name Gotic.
It would be easy to guess that the center of a historical quarter would be a Cathedral. Not exactly. The visitors streaming mostly towards the Picasso Museum. If not for the art treasures then to see the the inner court and palaces which houses the famous collection.
Theses streets have so much character. Real or revivals doesn't really matter.This is old Barcelona.
At the edge of the Barri Gotic.
If only these weathered doors could speak. They surely know lots of stories.
Beautiful wall decorating. Such elaborate work requires frequent restoration.
These two (left) geometric beauties I picked up on the Carrer Argenteria, a shopping street famous for its jewelry stores. This is died lava. I turned it into pendant on matching leather cords. Looks vintage 60-s?
Couldn't help but looked into this inner court. There was a restoration in progress. A brick work on the wall is a faux finish. The arches with staircase are beautiful. And the light is on even on sunny day.
One more reason to admire Barcelona. It's not about showcase the gorgeous facades, it's about being irresistibly beautiful in and out always.
This common street sign shows the Exit.
Thank you for visiting and come again soon.
* All images copyright Natalie Rapoport.
