Lomography

The area of Gracia in Barcelona is really the one I prefer. Located north of the central "Plaça Catalunya" it's in the same time really central, and different from the rest of the city.

The area of Gracia in Barcelona is really the one I prefer. Located north of the central “Plaça Catalunya” it’s in the same time really central, and different from the rest of the city.

Until the end of the 19th century, Gracia was a separate village from Barcelona, and was incorporated to the city against the will of the people of Gracia in 1897. This area was a very popular and industrial district and defended always republican and liberal ideas, strongly opposed to the “Big City” of Barcelona. In the 1960-70’s it was the main place of bohemian, hippie and “baba-cool” communities and nowadays it still have a different flavor from the rest of Barcelona.

Narrox Street with a lot of little places, where all the people come have a coffee at day and drink beer at night, it’s a very animated area, with a very “alternative” spirit and the opposite of what you can feel in the “tourist” center of Barcelona. So it’s really worth to go there, not only to walk in these charming old streets but also to stay a little time in this part of the city. No stress, very kind people and a little “village” mood. I really love Gracia!

To go there, just follow north after the central Plaça Catalunya the main road of “Passeig de Gracia” until the “Plaça de Joan Carles” and then the “Carrer Gran de Gracia”. Then, just take one of the narrow streets, get lost and enjoy! In the evening, the 2 main places of “Plaça del Sol” and “Plaça de Rius i Taulet” are full of people and you can enjoy much more!! :))

Links:
http://www.cocoonbarcelona.com/City_Guide_Barcelona_Gracia-en.htm

http://www.bcninternet.com/fr/touristinfo.php?subject=Gracia