Many European cruises start in Barcelona, so why not come a day early and explore the city? We always recommend coming a day or two early before your cruise. Getting in early helps reduce travel stress and ensure you don’t miss your cruise embarkation.
Barcelona Cathedral
The Barcelona Cathedral is also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia. It was constructed from the thirteenth to fifteenth centuries and located in the Gothic Quarter. Don’t forget to look up to see the wide variety of gargoyles. While you are in the Gothic Quarter check out Gaudi’s very first project: the street lamps in Placa Reial.
Gaudi’s buildings
Gaudi was a Spanish architect known for highly individualized, one-of-a-kind buildings mainly located in Barcelona. Seven of his works were declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. They include Parque Guell, Palacio Guell, Casa Mila (shown below on the left), Casa Vicens, Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo (shown below on the right), and Crypt at the Colonia Guell.
Sagrada Familia
Sagrada Familia is an unfinished Roman Catholic church. Construction of the church began in 1882 under architect Francisco de Paula del Villar but in 1883 Antoni Gaudi took over as chief architect. When Gaudi died in 1926 the church was less than a quarter completed.
The construction of Sagrada Familia has progressed slowly as it relies on private donations and there have been many interruptions such as during the Spanish Civil War. However, with advancements in technology the church is anticipated to be finished in 2026.
Are you thinking about exploring Barcelona? Would you like to see Gaudi’s amazing architecture? Contact us today to plan your trip!