The colours of Barcelona

It was a few minutes after seven in the morning when, after getting lost in the narrow streets of Barcelona and on the subway, the GPS finally pointed to the right place, the Triumphal Arch (Arc de Triomf).  This was the meeting point for my first guided tour of the Mediterranean city of Catalonia. The tour guide was no random choice, after all, the Eiffel Tower was nearly built in this place and there is a lot of history to be told. Initially, Gustav Eiffel submitted a proposal for the Eiffel Tower to be built in the city of Barcelona for the Universal Exhibition in 1888. But the Municipality of Barcelona rejected it, on the grounds that the tower was expensive and had a different style from that of the city.  Luckily for the French, Gustav Eiffel then submitted his plans to the city of Paris and Barcelona showed up at the Universal Exhibition with a Triumphal Arch.

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So what is Barcelona’s architectural style?  Barcelona is a mix of Gothic buildings and modern structures. Walking through the streets and alleys of Barcelona, ​​you can imagine a city that combines colours, extravagance and harmony in its buildings. After visiting Casa Amatller, Casa Milà, Expiatory Temple of the Sagrada Familia, Palau de la Música Catalana and Park Güell, I can say that extravagance is the main architectural hallmark of the Catalan modernist era, also known as Art Nouveau. The combination of delicate lines, asymmetrical and irregular curves, mosaics and a great mix of materials, gives the city its unique charm.

Barcelona offers different options for guided tours, so I tried something new, I explored the Sagrada Familia accompanied by a guide and photographer.  We arrived early to escape the crowds and enjoy the cool breeze of a summer morning. The experience, which was supposed to last an hour, went beyond two, and if the itinerary initially only included the Cathedral, we went on to explore other places, such as the Gothic city. This experience only reaffirmed what I had already noticed: the friendliness and willingness to show the best of the city is a common trait among people here.

When exploring the Gothic city, a visit to the Picasso Museum is a must.  The Museum was inaugurated in 1963 in honour of the artist, who was born in Malaga but spent most of his youth in Barcelona.  In the more than 4,200 works distributed by the former Berenguer d’Aguilar Palace, we travel chronologically through the work and life of the painter and sculptor Pablo Picasso.

Meals in Catalonia are a complicated moment, not because of scarcity, but because of the difficulty of choosing among so many options.  Because the streets are narrow, the aromas and colours of the dishes and tapas intersect and invite passers-by to come in and try them out. Following a recommendation from one of my guides, I decided to eat at San José market, popularly known as “La Boqueria”.  In the market, there is a diversity of dishes from all over Spain and one of the great attractions are the colourful stalls full of fruits and natural smoothies, great for cooling off in the midst of so much heat.

The night in Barcelona is full of life, the bars, restaurants, theatres and squares have programs and are almost always sold out.  Incidentally, during the day in various corners of the city there is always some outdoor cultural activity taking place. And so it is that, with a glass of wine and a portion of potatoes “bravas”, I end my adventure in Barcelona.

▶  HOW TO GET THERE

You can fly direct from Maputo to Lisbon and then take a connecting flight to Barcelona. Or, if you prefer, fly from Johannesburg to Madrid or Lisbon and then take a connecting flight.

▶  WHERE TO STAY

Barcelona has several accommodation options, from the most economical, such as airbnb, hostels, B&B, and top hotels.  You can stay at the Ronda House hotel, located within a 10-minute walking distance from “La Rambla” or Hotel Expo Barcelon.

▶  WHERE TO EAT

When it’s time to eat, I assure you, it won’t be easy to choose a restaurant.  Try local delicacies at the “La Boqueria” market or go to a typical restaurant on “La Rambla” avenue.

▶ WHAT TO DO

You can visit museums, walk in parks, go to a dance show, take a boat ride or go to the beach.  If you are a football lover, don’t forget to visit the Barcelona Stadium.

▶  WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR

Barcelona is a tourist city and the chances of forming huge queues to visit attractions are almost certain. Therefore, it is recommended to purchase tickets for museums, parks, theatre, etc., online and in advance.

Edição 78 Março/Abril| Download.