Barcelona is globally known for its architectural icons, such as the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, or Casa Batlló. But beyond these popular spaces, the city hides lesser-known gems that allow us to travel through time and discover the essence of other eras. Hola Barcelona takes you there!
These buildings often go unnoticed, but they offer a great historical and cultural richness. Here are eight places worth visiting:
1. The Roman Temple of Augustus: In the heart of the Gothic Quarter, this temple reminds us of ancient Barcino, Roman Barcelona. Its four Corinthian columns from the 1st century BC are a relic of the imposing temple dedicated to Emperor Augustus, one of the few visible testimonies of Roman Barcelona. In a small hidden corner, this spot is a true treasure for lovers of classical history.
2. Sant Pau del Camp: This is an ancient Romanesque monastery located in the Raval neighborhood. It is one of the oldest examples of Romanesque architecture in the city. Built in the 12th century, Sant Pau del Camp stands out for its simplicity and beauty, with a small cloister full of carved capitals full of details. This tranquil space feels removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, making us feel like we're in a remote place, despite being right in the center.
3. The Requesens Palace: Situated above the Roman wall, this is the largest private palace of medieval Barcelona and one of the most significant constructions of that time. This noble palace was built in the 14th century and offers a unique glimpse into the aristocratic life of medieval Barcelona. Today, its rooms with Gothic decoration can be visited, as well as cultural events that take place there.
4. The Dalmases Palace: This Baroque palace in the Born district is an architectural treasure with an impressive spiral staircase and fascinating sculptural details. With a history dating back to the 17th century, the Dalmases Palace is a hidden gem that often slips under the tourist radar, but it retains a special magic, especially if you visit during one of the flamenco evenings held there.
5. The Born Centre for Culture and Memory: Located in the old Born market, this cultural center has become a meeting point for those who want to understand the history of Barcelona in the 1700s. The archaeological site found here displays the remains of the ancient city since the siege of 1714. The Born Centre for Culture and Memory is a must-see to understand Barcelona's past and its importance in Catalonia's history.
6. The Royal Academy of Medicine of Catalonia: This 18th-century institution is a true treasure for lovers of the history of medicine. The jewel of this building is its anatomical amphitheater, built in a neoclassical style, a space where medical students would attend live dissections. The Royal Academy is one of the most unique architectural pieces in the city and transports us to a time when medicine was making great advances.
7. The House of Silk: Recognized as a guild house and located near Via Laietana, it is the only one of its style in Barcelona open to the public and belongs to the former Guild of Sailmakers. With exquisite and elegant interior decoration, this house showcases the history of a guild that had a great economic influence in the city. The guided tour delves into the guild's history and allows visitors to admire 18th-century original furniture and decorations.
8. The Barón de Quadras Palace: Next to the more famous Pedrera and Casa Batlló, this palace is a masterpiece of modernism designed by Puig i Cadafalch. With Gothic, Arab, and Renaissance elements, this building has a façade decorated with floral motifs and sculptures inspired by nature. Less known than its neighbors, Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, the Barón de Quadras Palace is a must-see for modernism enthusiasts.
And if you're a great lover of architecture, don't miss this article on modernist architecture in Barcelona!
This tour through the most unknown side of Barcelona offers us the opportunity to see a city with multiple historical and architectural layers, far beyond conventional tourist routes. You can choose to discover this architecture and Barcelona in a comfortable and fascinating way with the Barcelona Bus Turístic! Enjoy a panoramic tour of the city’s most iconic sites, with strategic stops that allow you to explore places like the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Barceloneta in depth. Each of these spaces transports us to a different era, allowing us to learn about the richness and cultural diversity hidden in this vibrant city. Hola Barcelona takes you there!
