You can consider Barcelona as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and it is certainly one of the most peculiar cities. It would be pleasant to spend several days there enjoying the architecture of Gaudi and the beat of Spain.
The primary tourist attractions of Barcelona are the Church of the Holy Family (Spanish: Sa-grada Familia), Ramblas Boulevard, and Catalonia Square, as well as Gothic Quarter, which is the center of Barcelona`s Old Town. You should find some time to have a stroll along the old winding alleys, as well as to visit the huge Cathedral.
Of course, architecture of Gaudi single out Barcelona from other European cities, making it attractive for tourists. Sagrada Familia is the most important work of Gaudi. He began to build it in 1884 (he was then 31), but construction was interrupted in 1926, when Gaudi tragically pe-rished under the wheels of tram. And the cathedral hasn’t been finished until nowadays. Sagrada Familia is very different from other churches, and similar to volcano, it amazes by its rich ornaments.
If you liked the cathedral, you should look at his other works, such as Park Guell, as well as two private houses, Casa Batllo and Casa Mila, also known as La Pedrera. Park Guell was commissioned by a rich industrial tycoon Eusebio Guell, which was fond of Gaudi and even proposed him to develop the entire suburban territory. Alas, these plans were fated to never come true, though Gaudi had time to plant a park there. And it is just there that you can see some pieces of Gaudi`s work made of ceramic tiles and mosaic.
Ramblas Boulevard span the central districts of Barcelona. This wide street planted with sycamores or plane trees is started at Catalonia Square and goes as far as the Embankment with a huge sculpture of Columbus. It is a favourite promenade of natives and tourists. The most curios section of the promenade is Ramblas San Jose near Boqueria Market.
Apart from above sights, Barcelona is also the center of renowned Costa Brava where you can have excellent beach vacations. There located a great number of fashionable resorts in the area, which are crowded with tourists all round the season. The most famous of them are Lloret de Mar, Blanes, Tossa de Mar, and Playa de Maro.
Also, it would be interesting to make a trip to Montserrat Monastery founded in 1025. It is located in the picturesque foothills of the Pyrenees. The monastery is the spiritual center of Cata-lonia and site of pilgrimage for all Catholics.
