The coach took us through the city and our first stop was at Antoni Gaudi’s famous unfinished Cathedral the Sagrada Familia (Sacred Family). It is probably the strangest and most fascinating building in the world – certainly in my experience. Construction began in 1883 and it was partially completed before he was killed by a tram in 1936! In recent years work has resumed on the masterpiece even though he left no plans or notes – just drawings. There are now numerous massive cranes and 3000 men on the building site attempting to finish the Cathedral before it is finally consecrated by the Pope at the end of the year. I have included some photos of the church as well as other examples of Gaudi’s work around the city. He attempted to combine art nouveau with his own brand of modernism.
Sagrada Familia
new section under construction
One of 18 spires
modern crucifix
a Gaudi designed apartment building
We also visited Montjuic Mountain close to the Olympic stadium of the 2004 Olympics. For some reason we weren’t shown the old Barri Gotic quarter of the city which is home to the Picasso museum boasting over 3000 pieces by the great painter.
Overall impression of Barcelona is a city rejuvenated by the 2004 Olympics and the great projects which preceded them.
I left the tour in the city at 1300 as the ship did not sail until 10 pm and there was a shuttle service from the city to the ship. Me and my mate Ralph headed past the Christopher Columbus Monument to the great Boulevard – La Ramblas – stretching almost two miles through the city as a pedestrian mall. It was a great way to get the feel of the place with enough large trees to keep the sun at bay. We had Paellas at an outdoor restaurant which also served the biggest beers in history – needing two hands to hold them.
Las Ramblas
Ralph with those beers
The previous day, Spain had defeated Germany to go through to the Football World Cup Final. I was surprised that festivities weren't in place expecting some Latin firewoks. The excuse I was given was that Barcelona doesn't regard itself as being part of Spain - it being the centre of Catalan. Strangely however it was the Barcelona star who scored the winning goal for Spain!!
After walking the length of the Ramlas and back we were back on board by around 5 pm.
I then attended Karaoke night and give my usual performance.
We sailed at 1030 pm and are now heading south west for Gibraltar tomorrow. More after then.
the Catalans definitely do not regard themselves as part of Spain. There is currently a rapidly growing secessionist movement so that they can retain their own language and culture - there was also a huge demonstration this weekend in support of the breakaway from Spain.
ReplyDeletewow that building looks so weird! did it look really out of place too? i want to go there! ahaha your usual karaoke performance.... :P
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