Last days in Barcelona

Perfect weather continues allowing our exploration of this magnificent city. Yesterday after a little shopping for some essentials that we needed like a pair of shoes we walked down to the waterfront and explored the aquarium. Though we are very familiar with marine life was interesting to see the different species that were represented here. Especially fond of the different seahorse aquariums.  After another great lunch we met with our tour group. There are only 20 in the group which makes for a nice number. After introductions and a n overview of the tour we set off for a tapas dinner in a small local establishment, passing on the way ,The 4 Cats, which was a favorite hangout of Picassos.  Dinner was an amazing assortment of tapas including foie gras and pulpo so I was very happy. I look forward to meals if this is any indication of quality.

This morning we had a walking tour of Gothic Barcelona by a local guide which was so interesting and informative. She had an in depth knowledge of history and a very easy way of imparting it.  The hours flew by.  We ended at the Sagrada Famillia which can look somewhat gaudy at first glance but with her detailed information regarding the meaning and building of this unique structure I fell in love with it.  I found it especially poignant that Gaudi designed the outside of this church to bring the bible to all the people, even those illiterate and those who did not enter into the church. It is predicted that the church will be finished in 2026 and I hope to see it at this time.  Eric and I spent the rest of the afternoon exploring some of the maze of side streets.  Tomorrow we are off to Madrid and more adventure.

Loved these cute little horses.

Love to see him snorkeling

These dragon fish look almost prehistoric

Barcelona Cathedral 

Impossible to capture the size of this immense church

First facade of the Famillia to be completed depicting the birth of Christ

One could stand and gaze upon this facade for hours and keep finding new details

Light and motion within is astounding

Unlike other churches visited Gaudi designed all the windows to be bright and bring in the colors of nature making for an ever changing interior as the outside light changes

Couloirs reflecting from the windows onto the white stone

Fun pieces of jewelry at a unique (and expensive) store in a little alley

Unique food items not on my shopping list!