Light is pouring in through the stained glass windows of the Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Barcelona. It symbolises the divine and amplifies the feeling of standing on sacred ground. You don’t have to be religious, though, to enjoy its power; its conscious use is reflected in the architecture of the church, and its colors are mesmerizing. Antoni Gaudi made a masterpiece and light was his guiding spirit.
Modernismo was an artistic, literary, and architectural movement in Catalonia at the beginning of the 20th century. It was part of a more general movement in this period in the whole of Europe and was called Art Nouveau or Jugendstil as well, depending on the country. Barcelona, in particular, is well known for many buildings from this period, especially in connection to the great Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. These buildings are unique and sometimes make the impression of being from another world altogether. They seem to be the perfect blend of practicability and imagination.
Tibidabo is one of the house mountains of the city of Barcelona in Spain. On the summit you not only have a beautiful look of the city, but also there is the famous neogothic church, the Sagrat Cor church, and even an amusement park. It can be reached by a funicular from the northern part of Barcelona, or you hike up the mountain. On sunny days, the views are incredible, and there is a lot to discover up on top.
Catalunya is a region in Spain that is very often considered a separate nationality. People in this part of Spain speak differently than in Madrid, they have their own history and political views. Many Catalonians believe that the region should gain independence from the Spanish Monarchy and become a nation-state with Barcelona as its capital. Already today, Barcelona is the proud capital of Catalunya and its heart in regards to culture, economics, and political power.
The skies over Barcelona are ever-changing, and with the clouds, the face of the city changes as well. Light brings different moods, and weather can influence the views of a city immensely. No matter if there is rain, a clear sky, or dramatic skies, Barcelona has its merits in all climates.
Although not the capital of Spain, Barcelona is probably one of the most traveled places in Spain and Europe in general. Especially Europeans like to come to the city for get-away trips, as it is very international and offers a lot to visitors. There are many restaurants with Spanish and international cuisine, a vibrant nightlife for the younger and for everyone who feels young. There are many sights as well: The Sagrada Familia, of course, but also the Tibidabo mountain with its magnificent views over the city, and the famous Rambla street. Last but not least, there is the sea with endless beaches full of sand and summer joy – when there is summer, of course. However, Barcelona is worth a visit at any time of the year.
Michael Hoffman Photography 