Barcelona is arguably Spain's most stunning holiday destination; it is a true Mediterranean gem and basks proud in the spotlight. It is one of the most eye-catching cities with its striking architecture, grand landmarks (like The Olympic Stadium), beautiful countryside and long, beach-strewn coastline - all set against brilliant sunshine and blazing blue skies.
Images of Antoni Gaudi's architecture are what perhaps most readily spring to mind when we picture Barcelona and it is not many cities that can conjure up such a striking mental image. Gaudi studied architecture in Barcelona as a teenager in the late 1800's and his creatively designed buildings are scattered throughout the city centre.
With their weird, wonderful and instantly recognisable design - incorporating an awe inspiring mix of spindling towers, coloured patterned mosaic tiles, gothic crosses, sinister looking chimeras and spider web window panes - his buildings have an austere and wacky beauty that play a huge part in setting Barcelona in a class of its own.
Perhaps his most famous design is The Sagrada Familia, on which Gaudi spent 43 years - the last 12 years of which were devoted entirely to the project. It is as fitting an example as any of the superiority of the Barcelona experience; a culture that takes a deep sense of pride and care in making Barcelona a delight for citizens and travellers alike. To truly appreciate the majestic scale and brilliance of Gaudi's work, it is advisable to stay in centrally-located hotels in Barcelona and explore each and every architectural twist and turn that the city has to offer.
What's more, there's the huge Olympic Stadium with its 55,000 capacity, the world-renowned Picasso Museum with some 3,500 original artworks and the world-class football team with their many successes. Barcelona really is outstanding in every way - it does nothing by halves, but it carries all this beauty and brilliance with a modest grace, rather than arrogance.
There is also a quiet and more humble side to Barcelona. Visitors can retreat into the calming mountainous areas - like Conca de Barbera - should they crave a little more tranquillity. It is a botanical and hilly region where visitors can appreciate the city's superior organic and natural beauty, with its medieval villages and monasteries. Then perhaps the best way to round off a perfect day is with a stroll along a section of the nearly 3 miles of golden sand coastline.
This stunning Spanish city presents itself as the ideal choice for anyone looking for a holiday destination that guarantees to exceed all expectations.
Written by: Daniel Collins
About the author: Daniel Collins writes on a number of topics on behalf of a digital marketing agency and a variety of clients. As such, this article is to be considered a professional piece with business interests in mind.
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