If you are a lover of history and headed to Spain make sure to add Barcelona to your itinerary. Barcelona’s historic neighbourhoods, local museums, and architecture that spans centuries are the ideal history buff destination. Here are a few sites to get you started.
Poble Sec (Air-raid Shelter 307)
Although they were not originally on the frontlines of the Spanish Civil War Barcelona became one of the first cities to be targeted by air raids causing the city’s citizens to build bomb shelters in every neighbourhood. Air-raid Shelter 307 has been fully restored to its original appearance and open to the public for tours. This venue has limited tour hours so be sure to check their schedule before showing up.
Barri Gotic
With buildings and ruins around the Barri Gotic neighborhood that date back as far as the 1100’s, you are sure to find plenty of history to tickle your fancy. Follow in the steps of our Roman forefathers as you stroll along the streets of this historic community where the roads run along the original Roman streets.
Palau Reial Major
This palace is where Barcelona Counts and the Argon Kings call home. Tour the Plaça de Rei courtyard, as well as the throne room of this palace where it is believed that Ferdinand and Isabela met with Columbus after he returned from his first trip to the new world.
La Pedrera
Built in 1912 by Gaudi, this building’s oceanic theme and distinctive soft lines draw onlookers from all over the world to view this functional work of art. Although the formal name of this site is Casa Milà, which translates to “stone quarry”, locals have come to love this well-known landmark. Take the tour that covers all three levels including the art gallery, and then explore the gift shop for a little piece of Barcelona to take home with you.
Museu Maritím
Celebrating Barcelona’s historic maritime culture, this medieval shipyard houses the Museu Maritím. Visitors will learn centuries old ship making techniques, and get to view a life size model of a galleon, or explore a 1917 schooner.
Montserrat and the Cathedral of Cava
Enjoy the combo Montserrat & Codorniu and the Sagrada Familia visit – is an experience that you will never forget. Take a train tour of the wine cellar which houses as many as a million bottles of spectacular wine and don’t forget to sample some of the champenoise wine that is made in the traditions of hundreds of years of wine making.
Barcelona is a history lover’s haven with historical landmarks around every corner partnered with modern architecture and life that makes it the ideal destination for any vacation itinerary, especially the history buff in your group. You will benefit from finding a Spanish teacher before you go as knowing some basic Spanish will help you when moving around.