Plaça del Rei

Me fascina la Plaça del Rei. Located just off the Cathedral Square in Barcelona, this Palace complex once functioned as the residence of the Conde de Barcelona and of the Reyes de la Corona de Aragón. This Palace marks the site of Columbus´ reception by the kings after the return from the New World. In addition, the complex contains a chapel and the impressive Saló del Tinnell, a royal reception hall.

I am fascinated by the Mirador del Rey Martín, a rectangular tower consisting of five floors with seven windows looking out to the city. Originally designed to defend and provide vigilance, it seems to loom over the plaça.

 There is a neat 3-D virtual program. Take a look and enjoy.

The Great Enchantress

Biblioteca de Catalunya

In a recent book, Robert Hughes calls Barcelona an "Enchantress". With its rich mélange of languages, foods, architecture, and people, the city captivates visitors and offers many opportunities to discover and learn about Catalunya and about its largest city. Most people come to Barcelona looking for monuments, artworks, food, and nightlife.

Plaça del Rei

My first experience of Barcelona was scientific. I was finishing an edition of a 13th cent. text and needed to consult an important witness housed in the Biblioteca de Catalunya. Tedious, practical, extremely meticulous work with no time and money for frivolous tourism. I spent days in the library, but at night I would venture to the area near Plaça del Rei to soak in the history and culture. In the course of those few days, I discovered rich traditions, history, language, and energy. And this splendid city changed me. When I return to the plaças and ramblas of Barcelona, I again seek to discover the various facets Barcelona..

What will you discover?