Welcome to the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona!
The Gothic Quarter (Catalan: Barri Gòtic or El Gòtic) is the historic centre of the old city of Barcelona. It stretches from La Rambla to Via Laietana, and from the Mediterranean seafront to the Ronda de Sant Pere. It is a part of Ciutat Vella district.
The quarter encompasses the oldest parts of the city of Barcelona, and includes the remains of the city's Roman wall and several notable medieval landmarks. Much of the present-day fabric of the quarter, however, dates to the 19th and early 20th centuries. El Call, the medieval Jewish quarter, is located within this area, along with the former Sinagoga Major.
The Barri Gòtic retains a labyrinthine street plan, with many small streets opening out into squares. Most of the quarter is closed to regular traffic although open to service vehicles and taxis.
History of the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is one of the oldest parts of Barcelona, with evidence of human settlement dating back to Roman times. The area was the site of a Roman military camp and was also the centre of the old city of Barcino, founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC. The quarter was also the site of the old Jewish quarter, El Call, and the former Sinagoga Major, the main synagogue of Barcelona.
The quarter was significantly remodelled in the 19th century, as part of the city's modernisation. The old city walls were demolished and replaced with boulevards, and several of the old streets were widened and straightened. The old medieval buildings were replaced with modern structures, and the old Jewish quarter was cleared to make way for new development.
Things to See and Do in the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Barcelona, and there are plenty of things to see and do in the area. The quarter is home to some of Barcelona's most iconic landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Barcelona, the Palau de la Música Catalana, and the Plaça Reial. The area is also home to some of Barcelona's best museums, such as the Museu d'Història de Barcelona, the Museu Picasso, and the Museu Frederic Marès.
The Gothic Quarter is also home to some of Barcelona's best restaurants and bars, as well as some of the city's most iconic shops and boutiques. The area is also home to some of Barcelona's best nightlife spots, such as the notorious Barri Xino. The quarter is also home to some of Barcelona's best art galleries, such as the Fundació Antoni Tàpies and the Centre d'Art Santa Mònica.
Accommodation in the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Barcelona, and there are plenty of accommodation options available in the area. The quarter is home to some of the city's best hotels, such as the Hotel Ciutat de Barcelona, the Hotel Barcelona Catedral, and the Hotel Barcelona Princess. The area is also home to some of Barcelona's best holiday apartments, such as the Barcelona Flats Barrio Gòtico and the Barcelona Flats El Gòtic.
Getting to the Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is located in the heart of Barcelona, and is easily accessible by public transport. The area is served by several bus lines, as well as the Barcelona Metro. The nearest Metro station is Jaume I, which is located on the L4 line. The quarter is also served by several tram lines, as well as the Barcelona Hop-on Hop-off tourist bus.
Conclusion
The Gothic Quarter is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Barcelona, and it is easy to see why. The area is home to some of the city's most iconic landmarks, as well as some of Barcelona's best restaurants, bars, shops, and nightlife spots. The quarter is also home to some of Barcelona's best hotels and holiday apartments, making it an ideal destination for visitors looking for accommodation in Barcelona.