Barcelona 1
After spending time in Majorca, Jayne and I stayed for a couple of days in Barcelona. In fact, we spent that time based in the Gothic Quarter. Here, it is easy to see some of the early Roman and medieval architecture.
The Cathedral of Barcelona dates back to the eleventh century. The exterior and interior lines, shapes and forms are an artistic pleasure for the eye.
Another interesting landmark to walk past is the Arc de Triomf.
There are many intricate narrow streets that lead to many plazas and courtyards.
While visiting the Gothic Quarter, be sure to take a stroll along Las Ramblas Street. It is always a beehive of activity, day or night. There are wall-to-wall shops and restaurants and is a great place to people-watch!
And there is always the possibility of an unusual site to be found around the next turn!
For more things to do in Spain, check out this article!
Enjoy life!
Thanks, Jerry!
That does it. After visiting Spain last year, I was pretty sure I understood that “moors” meant “North African muslims” or something along that line, but over time my recollection blurred. Was it an Arab clan or what. So I looked it up on Wikipedia. It turns out that the reason I always felt sloppy about my definition is because it’s a sloppily defined word. For your interest:
Moors are not a distinct or self-defined people,[3] and mainstream scholars observed in 1911 that “The term ‘Moors’ has no real ethnological value.”[4] Medieval and early modern Europeans variously applied the name to Arabs, Berber North Africans and Muslim Europeans.[5] The term has also been used in Europe in a broader, somewhat derogatory sense to refer to Muslims in general,[6] especially those of Arab or Berber descent, whether living in Spain or North Africa.[7] During the colonial era, the Portuguese introduced the names “Ceylon Moors” and “Indian Moors” in Sri Lanka, and the Bengali Muslims were also called Moors.[8]
Now, maybe I’ll remember. If not, I can always look it up again. LOL
Thanks Carl. I did not know that. And thanks for the visit!
the Arc is a stunning example of Mudejar, Moorish-influenced architecture, found primarily in Spain
Stay tuned here, Stan. I have two more upcoming postings related to our Barcelona trip. Thanks for the visit!
Jerry,
Great shots and a nice preview for our trip to Barcelona in early May. Would appreciate any tips you can pass along regarding the city and best photo opps. We’ll be there for a week.
Yeah, the old guy was perfect! Thanks, Jerry!
Oh, I love the free advice Jerry. I love that old guy there and the curious younger folks trying to take advantage of it. And speaking of free, you’re taking me on a lovely ride to some of the coolest spots I’ve ever seen and I don’t even have to leave my computer. Thanks!