Latest news with #Gaudí
Forbes
22-05-2025
- Forbes
10 Top Barcelona Attractions
The iconic La Sagrada Familia should be complete in 2026. Barcelona has seduced visitors for decades, drawing them in with its striking modernist architecture — from the towering Sagrada Familia to the whimsical Park Güell, both masterpieces of visionary Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. But as gorgeous as the buildings are, there's so much more to Barcelona: its lively beaches and promenades, its maze-like neighborhood steeped in history and its quintessentially Mediterranean lifestyle. While worries about overtourism in Spain's second-biggest city (behind Madrid) persist, mindful travelers are always welcome. Consider visiting in the spring or fall to avoid peak tourist seasons, support local businesses and respect residential areas, especially at night. Check those boxes and you can fully appreciate these 10 attractions that give you a glimpse of the best Barcelona offers. La Sagrada Familia has famously remained unfinished since its construction began in 1882, but with an estimated finish date of 2026 to mark the 100th anniversary of Gaudí's death, its completion finally feels within reach. With the landmark's realization, Barcelona's skyline will change, as Gaudí's masterpiece will become the tallest church in the world at 566 feet, when the last of its six central towers is done. The tower will allow up to 11 visitors to enjoy sweeping city views at a time from this new vantage point. If you plan to visit before the official reopening, you'll be happy to know there are new cathedral areas already open to the public. This complex of gardens and parks should not be missed. You'll feel like you're in Wonderland at this fantastical modernist park designed by the creative genius of Gaudí and entrepreneur Eusebi Güell, who gave the complex of gardens and parks its name. Originally conjured as a private estate for well-to-do families, Park Güell's greenery, tile mosaics and famous viaducts are now enjoyed by millions of locals and visitors each year. Set aside a few hours and stroll through the park in search of the iconic mosaic lizard that's become a city symbol. Barri Gòtic, as it's locally called, is the oldest part of the city, dating back to Roman times. Its narrow, winding streets and maze-like alleys are lined with quirky cafés and shops for you to discover. The Barcelona Cathedral and remnants of Roman walls are unmissable, as is Plaça Reial, a vibrant square surrounded by arcades, palm trees and charming restaurants, perfect for soaking in the neighborhood's lively atmosphere. When things heat up, cool off here. As soon as the sunny weather arrives, Barceloneta Beach becomes the city's epicenter. A short walk from the heart of town, this stretch of Mediterranean coastline is lined with chiringuitos (beachside bars) for you to enjoy tapas and sangría. When the sun starts to set, take a stroll down the promenade, the Passeig Maritim, stopping by Frank Gehry's El Peix d'Or sculpture and the sail-shaped W Barcelona to admire its lights reflecting on the water. Five conjoined medieval palaces with Catalan Gothic architecture house the Picasso Museum in the district El Born. The space alone is worth a visit, but with a permanent collection comprising approximately 5,000 pieces, most from his formative years, visitors are able to appreciate Picasso's early mastery of realism before he transitioned to the innovative styles that defined his career. While the painter was originally from Málaga, he lived in the city with his family during his youth and returned often throughout his lifetime. Do some shopping with the locals. Officially the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, this market in Ciutat Vella has become an unmissable experience in Barcelona. With one entrance at La Rambla, a wide boulevard running through the heart of the city center, this is a popular place for lunch or a light snack at one of its many bars. Try to visit in the morning, when the market is in full swing, and make sure you sample the variety of local products on offer: olives, cheese and, of course, jamón iberico. There's plenty to do at Montjuïc Hill (meaning 'Jewish Mountain'), from taking in the views of the city and the sea from Montjuïc Castle to visiting the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, famous for its nightly water and light shows. Art lovers can spend a few hours admiring the impressive collections at the Fundació Joan Miró or the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya. For a change of pace, ride on the Montjuïc cable car, enjoy panoramic vistas or go for a walk through the Montjuïc Gardens to take a break from the city. Gander at Gaudí's most celebrated works. On the prestigious Passeig de Gràcia, Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (also known as La Pedrera) are two of Gaudí's most celebrated works. Covered in shards of stained glass, Casa Batlló is often compared to Claude Monet's Water Lilies for the way the building's colors glimmer and shift from blue to green in the changing light. Nearby, Casa Milà stands tall with its twisted white pillars stemming from the roof and undulating stone facade. You're less likely to encounter crowds here than at other Gaudí landmarks, and if you visit in the summer, you can enjoy classical music concerts on the rooftops. El Born has all the charm of Barri Gòtic but with considerably fewer crowds. Its medieval streets are lined with trendy boutiques and artisan workshops where you can pick up unique home decor and handmade jewelry. Come nighttime, its bars come alive with hip young locals having a good time, making this a great spot to spend an evening basking in everyday local life. Try some open-flame deliciousness. While not necessarily an attraction, feasting on calçots (sweet green onions) is both a cultural and culinary experience you won't want to miss if you're traveling to Catalonia when they're in season. From approximately November to May, these vegetables are charred over an open flame and dipped in romesco (a local sauce made with roasted red peppers and tomatoes). They're typically enjoyed at friends' houses during a calçotada (a traditional Catalan barbecue), but visitors can order them at traditional masias (rustic countryside estates) like Can Travi Nou and Can Cortada.
Hypebeast
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Hypebeast
Antoni Gaudí's Batlló Chair Gets Limited Reissue by BD Barcelona & CASA VALLE for NYCxDesign
BD Barcelonahas partnered withGiancarlo Valleand Jane Keltner de Valle'sCASA VALLEto reproduce a 50-piece run of architectAntoni Gaudí's Batlló Chair, originally designed for the Casa Batlló dining room during the period of 1904-1906. The special release, rendered in a timeless ebony stain, is on view now with other pieces from BD's Gaudí Collection at gallery CASA VALLE for NYCxDesign. Though born in the early 20th century, the striking design exemplifies the language of Catalan's 'Modernisme,' closely associated with the then-innovative Art Nouveau aesthetic. Gaudí's whimsical and awe-inspiring designs are foundational to the movement, also characterized by the dramatic curves, tapered silhouettes, and naturalistic inspiration seen in the famous chair. In tandem with promoting the legacy of Gaudí's design language, the chair's darkened finish injects it with contemporaneity. According to BD Barcelona, each chair is an 'exact reproduction of the original, handcrafted by artisans in Barcelona,' complete with a certificate signed by the Gaudí Cathedra to guarantee authenticity. The Spanish furniture purveyor's Gaudí Collection joins its Art Editions initiative, which focuses on collectable limited editions like the iconic designs of Salvador Dalí. CASA VALLE highlights the significance of the famed architect today, saying 'Gaudí's work and brand of modernism feels incredibly relevant today. We wanted to retell this rich story in the context of what is happening now, and connect it to the energy and ideas coming out of New York and what could come next,' in a statement. Interested parties can enquire withBD Barcelonafor more information on the limited-edition release. The 50 ebony editions will be on view atCASA VALLE'sat 50 Lispenard Street location from May 15-21.
Daily Mirror
15-05-2025
- Daily Mirror
Beautiful but hidden beach just minutes from Barcelona tourists can never find
Avoid the droves of bustling crowds with this pristine beach - located just 15 minutes away from one of Barcelona's busiest hotpots - that has been described by one local as the 'perfect escape' A local has revealed the 'perfect' escape from Spain's bustling beaches that most tourists struggle to find. Renowned for its Gaudí architecture, ubiquitous history, and fancy rooftop cocktail bars - Barcelona, located in Spain's Catalonia region, has long been a tourist hotspot. Last year, a staggering 15.6 million tourists flocked to cosmopolitan city, to soak up the sun and pretend they're suddenly art and history connoisseurs. It's a 100,000 decrease compared to 2023 overnight figures, but still means finding a beach where you're not rubbing shoulders with a complete stranger an almost impossible feat. Playa de Bogatell is a popular spot for sun-worshipping Brits, boasting sugar-like sands, cobalt waters, and a slew of sea-view eateries. However, in the peak seasons - the stretch of sand can become insufferably crowded. Luckily, TikTok channel Explorebarcelona explained that just a stone's throw from the busy beach lies a stunning shore that has somehow managed to escape the tourist limelight. "Most tourists will never find this place, but most locals know it's the perfect escape," the account said. "Tired of crowded beaches, and overpriced drinks? Just walk 15 minutes further and you will find Platja Nova Mar Bella, a hidden gem where locals actually relax. [There are] no vendors, no noise, just clean sand, clear water, and space to breathe." On TripAdvisor, Platja Nova Mar Bella has garnered hundreds of five-star reviews from impressed travellers."The sand was light coloured tan with no rocks and clean surroundings," one visitor hailed. "The drop off into the sea was substantial and with smooth rocks to walk into the water. Beverages were easily attained as were umbrellas to rent." Another agreed, commenting: "[It's] quieter than beaches nearer the town. There are spacious toilets, bike racks to lock up rental bikes, and showers. It's a relaxed unintimidating beach for people of all ages and all shapes and sizes!" A third added: "Very nice tapas bar in the middle of the beach, very nice sand and clean water. Very convenient and free parking," while a fourth penned: "The beach was closed to swimming because of high wind and surf conditions but that didn't stop us from dipping our feet in the water and enjoying the sun!" However, others argued the beach's pristine reputation had already started to fade. One-star reviews complaining about 'aggressive' vendors and pickpockets have now started to tarnish the review site. "The place is nice and clean," one person wrote. "The only downside is the shoppers. [They're] very aggressive and insistent... they had to be put back in their place vigorously." Others pointed out the beach was actually a nudist beach, despite a lack of notice boards. Many have branded the beach a 'gay beach', as it tends to attract LGBTQ+ visitors.
Euronews
06-05-2025
- Euronews
Yes, you can still visit Barcelona. Here's how to do it more responsibly
ADVERTISEMENT Before visiting Barcelona in March, I'd read the headlines with a healthy mix of scepticism and concern. Tourists sprayed with water guns. Locals shout: 'Tourists go home!' More protests planned. They painted the picture of a people fed up with the economy of coming and going. And there was no escaping it: my presence could contribute to the problem. I was travelling to run the city's marathon – one of its biggest international events – and wondered if I'd picked the wrong time. As is so often the case, the reality was more nuanced. Big events bring big money – but also big crowds International marathons are big business. According to its title sponsor, Bank of America, the 2022 Chicago Marathon generated about €340 million, created almost 3,000 jobs and pumped €145 million into the local economy. Barcelona's marathon isn't quite on that scale, but still 27,000 people signed up for the March race – 7,000 more than ever before. That's roughly the number nine cruise ships would carry at full capacity, all descending on the city for one morning of hard work and one night of celebratory cava and vermút. Would the city bristle at yet another influx of visitors eager to get lost in the Gothic Quarter, marvel at Gaudí's masterpieces and feast their way through the mercats? Related Festivals, island sun and city breaks: Where to travel in Europe this spring Want to escape the crowds in Barcelona? These car-free day trips offer the best of Catalonia Not at all. I wasn't met with water guns – although they would've been welcome at points along the 42-kilometre course – but with cries of encouragement. Thousands of locals lined the streets. The energy was electric. The city felt proud. None of this was a surprise. Marathons have yet to become targets for anti-tourism protestors, even if ' race-cations ' are on the rise. Still, the tension is real, and the impacts of overcrowding aren't hard to find. Why some locals are reaching their limit Barcelona is one of Europe's most visited cities. More than 12 million people visit each year, and about five million make a beeline for Park Güell and Sagrada Família alone. The pressure on these places – and on the people who live nearby – is immense. Yet tourism accounts for more than 125,000 jobs and nearly 15 per cent of the city's economy. For many locals, this isn't about banning tourists . It's about finding a sustainable balance. ADVERTISEMENT 'Barcelona is a much calmer, safer and more welcoming city than what is reported, but sometimes we pay more attention to isolated events that make a lot of noise,' says Jordi Luque Sanz, a Barcelona native, food writer and senior culinary attaché at Bon Vivant Communications, a firm that manages chefs and high-end restaurants around the world. Crowds gather at Park Guell. Dorian/Unsplash 'Having said that, I will not deny that tourism has grown enormously in recent years, that we lack an adequate model because no government has been interested in developing one seriously and that some areas are very overcrowded.' During my trip, checklist destinations like La Rambla and Sagrada Família were packed, despite grey, wet and unpredictable weather. At one restaurant, I watched as a waiter – with the patience of a saint – repeatedly turned away diners who had ignored a 'reservations only' sign and barged in to ask for a table, always in English. At Park Güell, confused visitors, unaware they needed to book tickets online , met with exasperated workers. There, I overheard one staff member exclaim to a Spanish-speaking couple: 'What a miracle to hear people speaking Spanish in this place!' ADVERTISEMENT Cruise ships and short-term lets are under scrutiny Much of the strain stems from how people visit the city. Among the biggest flashpoints are short-term rentals and cruise ship tourism. Many apartments have been converted into Airbnbs , pricing out locals and turning once-quiet streets into party zones. 'Here we don't have 'suburbia,'' says Ann-Marie Brannigan, an Irish expat and co-founder of Runner Bean Tours who has lived in Barcelona for almost 20 years. 'Some people don't know much about neighbourhood or flat living. It took me years to get used to it.' She says that many tourists will often sit out on balconies or terraces, drinking and talking long after midnight – a taboo in Barcelona communities . ADVERTISEMENT Ann-Marie Dunnigan of Runner Bean Tours says it's important to respect community living. 'If you want to have fun and party, you should go out to zones where there are clubs,' she advises. Meanwhile, cruise ships unload thousands of day-trippers who rarely stay long enough to contribute meaningfully to the local economy. Last May, Barcelona's mayor, Jaume Collboni, warned that the volume of short-term travellers was overwhelming popular areas and crowding public transport. 'We are reaching a limit, and we need to put a cap [on one-day visitors],' he said. The cultural toll is just as concerning. ADVERTISEMENT Longtime residents are watching their city change as historic bars, restaurants and neighbourhood markets are rebranded to suit the tastes of a transient crowd, and chintzy shops now occupy historic buildings in El Born and the Gothic Quarter. What travellers can do differently Beyond the big-name attractions, though, a less saturated and more rewarding Barcelona still exists. The Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau offers a remarkable look at Barcelona's modernist movement with a fraction of the crowds of Sagrada Família just down the road. Small coffee shops like Dalston and Sip pair locally roasted beans with friendly service. ADVERTISEMENT Less-frequented venues like the historic Mercat de Sant Antoni and pintxo favourite Quimtet & Quimtet – standing tables only – offer antidotes to overcrowded hotspots. These are the kinds of experiences experts like Luque suggest seeking out. Related You'll need to book via app to visit these spectacular beaches in Sardinia this summer Soaring rent prices and cruise ship caps: How Barcelona has changed in the 10 years I've lived here 'The great monuments – La Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, the Picasso Museum – are fabulous, but it's worth trying to get to know other places, such as the neighbourhoods of Poble Nou or Sants, where everything is much more real,' he says. Luque recommends local markets like Mercat del Ninot and Mercat de Galvany over the packed Boqueria and encourages travellers to explore quieter corners of Eixample, 'not just along and around Paseo de Gracia, which is a wonderful street but too crowded.' ADVERTISEMENT Dunnigan suggests places like Montjuïc and Glòries if you want to see more local – and overlooked – sides of the city. 'The cemetery in Montjuïc is absolutely beautiful, and no one goes there,' she says, highlighting the Art Nouveau-style mausoleums built by the city's bourgeois for their loved ones around the turn of the 20th century. The Encants market is a gem for fans of architecture and design. Thomas Lendt/WikiCommons Glòries, she adds, offers a window into the city's modern architecture, including landmarks like the excellent Design Museum of Barcelona and Encants Market. And she encourages visiting community festivals instead of just big ones like La Mercè. 'Every neighbourhood has two a year, with food and sardanas (traditional music dancing),' says Brannigan. 'They'll give you a much more local feel.' ADVERTISEMENT It also helps to know – and follow – local etiquette. Luque has a few suggestions. Don't go shirtless , he says. Avoid rowdy antics in residential neighbourhoods. Drinking in the street? Not allowed. And learn a few Catalan or Spanish phrases. 'A 'gràcies' for thank you or 'hola' for hello always helps and a smile opens many doors,' he says. Is Barcelona at a crossroads? At a recent summit in the city, protestor Elena Boschi made a pointed declaration to the media members in attendance: 'We want tourists to have some level of fear about the situation – without fear, there is no change.' Her words underline the growing tension between a city that depends on tourism yet struggles to manage its impact – a tension that's evident to anyone visiting the city. ADVERTISEMENT With protestors planning Europe-wide disruptions on 15 June – across Barcelona, Venice, Lisbon and beyond – the atmosphere is more volatile than ever. But it's also clear that Barcelona isn't vehemently anti-tourist. It's simply asking for a different kind of tourist: one who comes with curiosity and listens as much as they look.
Boston Globe
02-05-2025
- General
- Boston Globe
Will ‘God's architect' become the next saint?
The odds for Gaudí are fairly good. Gaudí, who died in 1926, was famously at the vanguard of Barcelona's Modernisme artistic movement, the Advertisement People wait in line to enter the Basílica de la Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain. On April 14, 2025, Pope Francis placed Antoni Gaudí, the Catalan modernist architect once called 'God's architect' for his work on the Sagrada Familia, the world-famous basilica in Barcelona, on the path to sainthood. SAMUEL ARANDA/NYT A devout Catholic, he became increasingly pious and hermetic as he worked on the church, fasting and even sleeping in its workshop near the end. He was struck by a tram as he was walking to evening prayers, and he cared so little for appearances that the driver thought he was a beggar and took him to the pauper's hospital, where he died three days later. About After his death, a leading prelate called him 'God's architect,' a sobriquet that has stuck for almost a century. As to the required miracle, the completion of the massive cathedral after 143 years might qualify. In some ways, Gaudí is a puzzling choice for Pope Francis, who was known for his progressive efforts to open the church. By contrast, Spanish Advertisement Still, the basilica is a place of superlatives: When completed, it will be the tallest church building in the world, and it is the world's largest unfinished church today. It contains not a single 90-degree angle, inside or out. These distinctions, and Gaudí's international fame — how many other Catholic architects have been celebrated in a Many readings of Genesis place mankind as the At a time when Gods' creation is being desecrated by the worst impulses of man, that is truly something worth venerating. Renée Loth's column appears regularly in the Globe.
