Eight hours in such a magnificent city is ridiculously scant, but they were enough to give me an introduction to a place I hope to visit in depth in the future. So this synopsis is just a teaser.
The first view of the city I saw was from Montjuic. Clearly, La Sagrada Familia Temple and the Cathedral, along with a strange Cucumber, shaped edifice dominate the cityscape.
Also on Montjuic we passed the 1992 Olympic stadium and other venues marked by this symbol.
La Sagrada Familia is Gaudi’s masterpiece. Begun in 1882, it is still under construction with a hoped-for completion by 2020. Construction is paid for by tourist entrance fees. It has three fronts or facades: the Birth of Christ, the Passion, and the Death and Resurrection. Each façade bears four soaring towers which represent the Twelve Apostles, four monumental bell towers representing the Evangelists, and two colossal domes, dedicated to The Virgin and to Christ, respectively.
The facades have many niches with scenes from Jesus’ life. Instead of telling these stories in stained glass as many cathedrals do, it is done in stone. Here are some:
Presentation
Jesus as Carpenter
Passion Façade
Judas Kiss
The Cathedral is the center around which medieval Barcelona revolves. The construction of the current cathedral began in 1448. It is currently being renovated, much of which is being paid by commercial sponsors. Even though the city is predominantly Catholic, the guide said that only few practice the religion.
Choir in center of Church 1390
Lecturn and Paschal Candle with Easter Flowers
What I found most interesting was the cloister. It had a lovely small fountain topped by a figure of St. George, the Patron Saint of Barcelona.
St. George Fountain
Ducks live in the cloister. I watched them preening themselves.
The monument of Christopher Columbus is at the base of Las Ramblas, the fashionable wide shopping street, where it meets the Mediterranean.
He is pointing out to sea…where I am now sailing away from Barcelona on my way to Monte Carlo.
I have good memories of Barcelona. Yes, you need more time. Go to the restaurants and walk Las Ramblas.But I see this is a beautiful trip and you are doing a great job taking us with you. Gracias, chica. Don't gamble in Montecarlo, we are watching you!!!
ReplyDeleteWonderful pictures! I'm getting our trip details nailed down for this summer, and I can see from your pix and comments that it will be frustrating to have just a day in Barcelona!
ReplyDeleteAre those ducks or geese in the cloister? I remember Carol, and I think Norma also, mentioning something about geese.
Your "crush" looks muy guapo!
Continue having fun on your grand adventure!