Barcelona Spain is a city with a past...all the way back to the Roman Empire, actually.
But, in the "old" days, it was nothing like what it was to become in the Middle Ages. That era was again eclipsed by another spurt in the middle of the 19th century.
With so many ages in its past, it is easy for the visitor to Barcelona to take a peek at old Roman architecture, marvel at medieval churches, such as Le Seu, and blow a wad of modern money on some pretty neat shopping!
Of course, no visit to Barcelona would be complete without the appropriate gawking at the architectural achievements of its favorite son, Antonio Gaudi. Do not miss visiting Park Guell, Sagrada Familia, and Casa Mila, but be prepared to stand there and wonder, to yourself, of course, what WAS he thinking?
However, Gaudi is not responsible for ALL the imposing sights in the Capital of Catalonia. You cannot go to Paris without seeing the Arc de Triomphe nor can you go to Barcelona without seeing the Arc de Triomf. Same thing, but with a Spanish flair.
MNAC, aka: Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya, houses some excellent art, and the rather eclectic market, La Boqueria. Be advised that at La Boqueria, the art is not just on the walls, but in the diverse crowds examining, and buying, the even more diverse, foods available there.
If you begin to lag and sag, you can always perk yourself back up at one of the city's many tapas bars...or just plain bars...if that's your style.
For the family (i.e. kids and kids-at-heart), there are the zoo and the aquarium. If that doesn't wear 'em out, climb up to the top of Montjuic for a view of the city which will awe even young children.
At one time a sleepy little town of little interest to the traveler, today's Barcelona is a place of history, mystery, and fun for all.
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