BARCELONA, SPAIN

Barcelona is a large city which has grown since the end of the Spanish War and the beginning of the modernisation of Spain, and which is nowadays a cosmopolitan city.

Barcelona is a large city which has grown since the end of the Spanish War and the beginning of the modernisation of Spain, and which is nowadays a cosmopolitan city. The old Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter, where the original Roman and medieval city was located, still remains comparatively undisturbed and we will see both aspects of the city on this tour. After a drive through the commercial centre, we will visit the 600-year-old Catalan Gothic Cathedral of Santa Eulàlia, built on the site of a Roman temple dedicated to Hercules. Although the façade is modern, the tall, slender columns and ancient stained-glass windows take us back to the Middle Ages. Then it’s on to Gaudí’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia Church, a ‘must see’ in Barcelona. Begun in 1884 and still unfinished, this temple with its peculiar expressionist style, profuse decoration and striking originality is truly a unique sight. The building of this church became an obsession with Gaudí and for this last 15 years he accepted no other commissions. He actually lived in a hut on the construction site, spending his free time soliciting funds to continue the work. Unfortunately a tram hit Gaudí before he ever saw his work completed. Our stop here is for external viewing only. We will also make a stop as the Poble Espanyol de Montjuïc (Spanish Village), for a chance to admire many interesting arts and crafts, together with different styles of Spanish architecture. Here, time permitting, we can do some shopping. Leaving the Spanish Village and before returning to the pier, we shall enjoy a panoramic view of the Olympic ring surrounding the Olympic stadium. A short stop at the panoramic viewpoint of Mirador del Alcalde will be made for some splendid views over Barcelona.

About 2 hours of walking is involved in this tour, including approximately 15 steps at the Cathedral and a few more in the Spanish Village. Around 1 hour of free time is given at the village. Places of interest may be visited in a different order from that specified, due to prevailing traffic conditions. Appropriate clothing should be worn when visiting the Cathedral.

DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2007 CANARIES & MEDITERRENEAN CRUISES