TOUR A - CITY TOUR OF BARCELONA
Excursions
- £35 - £45
- approx. 4 hours
- Moderate
Barcelona has grown since the end of the Spanish War and the beginning of the modernisation of Spain, and is now a cosmopolitan city. The old Barcelona, the Gothic Quarter, where the original Roman and medieval city was located, remains comparatively undisturbed, and we will see both the old and new aspects of the city on this tour.
Following a drive through the commercial centre, we visit the 600-year-old Catalan Gothic Cathedral of Santa Eulàlia, built on the site of a Roman temple dedicated to Hercules. The Cathedral is dedicated to one of the city’s patron saints, Eulàlia, who was tortured and killed by the Roman rulers of Barcelona when she was 13. Although the façade is modern, the tall, slender columns and ancient stained-glass windows will take us back to the Middle Ages.
Next, it’s on to Gaudí’s masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia Church, a must-see in Barcelona. Started in 1882 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 of Gaudí, and for the last 15 years of his life he didn’t accept any other commissions. He actually lived in a hut on the construction site, spending his free time soliciting funds to continue the work. Unfortunately Gaudí was hit by a tram and died shortly after, before he ever saw his work completed. He is buried in the crypt of the Sagrada Familia.
Continuing with our tour, we stop at the Spanish Village (Poble Espanyol de Montjuïc), where we have a chance to admire many interesting arts and crafts, together with different styles of Spanish architecture. Here, time permitting; we may have the chance to do some shopping. En route back to the quayside, we shall drive up to the panoramic viewpoint of Mirador del Alcalde for a splendid view of Barcelona, before passing Montjuïc Gardens and seeing the Olympic Stadium.
TOUR NOTES: This tour involves approximately 30 minutes of walking at the Gothic Quarter, 30 minutes at the Sagrada Familia, and one hour of walking at the Spanish Village. There are a few steps to negotiate at both the Gothic Quarter and Spanish Village, and cobbled ground will be encountered. Unfortunately this tour is not recommended for wheelchair users. Religious practice requires shoulders and knees to be covered when entering the Cathedral. Tours are not allowed inside the temple between 13:00-17:00, nor when mass is taking place – if so, guide will provide explanations outside and guests might access independently, if they wish to do so. Depending on traffic conditions, places of interest may be visited in a different order to that described. For reference, toilet facilities are available at the Spanish Village.
DESCRIPTION CORRECT FOR 2011 CANARIES & MED SEASON
Snack or meal provided
Refreshments available
Free time
Shopping opportunity
Wheelchair access
Swimming opportunity
All prices are based on operating costs, tariffs and rates of exchange and are subject to change without notice.
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