You won’t just get lost in the history of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, but also in the amazing variety of things to do in this corner of the city that is among the most visited places by tourists and residents alike. With its labyrinthine streets, it’s best to pay extra close attention to your surroundings as it’s common to literally get lost in the area. Along with beautiful squares that make for the perfect place to relax for an afternoon with a bottle of wine or a good book, there are numerous great boutiques for shopping, a grand cathedral, and a lively nightlife. During your next visit to Barcelona, be sure to take a walking tour though the Gothic Quarter!
A History of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is the center of the old city of Barcelona. Many of its buildings maintain their medievally designed integrity though there were many additions and improvements throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. The Roman Wall remains are evidence that the Gothic Quarter dates as far back as the Roman settlement in Barcelona. The labyrinthine street layout is further evidence, with many of the streets opening up into squares that would have been markets and meeting places in medieval times.
Barcelona Gothic Quarter Attractions
- The Barcelona Gothic Quarter Cathedral is one of the main attractions in this area and is the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona, as well as breathtaking sight. Having been constructed from the 13th to the 15th centuries, its neogothic style is complete with rooftop gargoyles and other domestic and mythic animals. Read our article on Barcelona’s most famous cathedrals if you’re interested in visiting more.Â
- Plaça Sant Jaume is located at the heart of the Barcelona Gothic Quarter and is the administrative center of the city as home to both City Hall and the Palace of the Generalitat of Catalonia. The square is home to many big events throughout the year.
- Plaça Reial sits between the Gothic Quarter and La Rambla and is a popular attraction. It is well known for its rich nightlife as it is home to many famous nightclubs and outdoor venues. It is one of the most popular spots for national celebrations like New Year’s Eve.
- Portal de l’Àngel is known among locals for being one of the premier locations for shopping in Barcelona, since it is a pedestrian-only street – it attracts many of the best-known local and international fashion brands. The huge footfall on Portal del’Àngel makes it Barcelona’s (and Spain’s) most expensive retail location.
- The Barcelona Gothic Quarter also has its own collection of ruins, such as the Temple of Augustus, an old Roman temple built during the Imperial period. After being demolished, its remains were not discovered for centuries and have been slowly restored as they have been found.
A Few Fantastic Gothic Quarter Restaurants
There are far too many restaurants in Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter to suit all tastes and budgets: from romantic to casual, local to fine-dining and more. But a few highly-recommended spots to eat include Bilbao Berria, or Cal Pep. Our best recommendation is to wander the streets and follow your nose!Â
