Barcelona is vibrant and spirited
Today's main challenges for this epic work-in-progress: construct the tallest church spire ever built, ensure that construction can withstand the vibrations from speedy trains rumbling underfoot, and find a way to buy out condo-owners to fulfill Gaudi's vision of a grand esplanade approaching the church. The goal to finish the church by the 100th anniversary of Gaudi's death, in 2026, may seem overly optimistic. But, with money from millions of visitors pouring in each year (the admission is pricey -- but you know it's for an exciting cause), it appears more obtainable as time goes by. I've long said, "If there's one building I'd like to see in Europe, it's Gaudi's Sagrada Familia church in Barcelona ... finished."
With attitude in its art, culture, and politics, Barcelona -- in spite of its tourist crowds -- is a place where you're likely to wave the local flag and declare, along with its residents, "Visca Catalunya!"
IF YOU VISIT...
SLEEPING: In the Barri Gotic, Hostal el Jardi offers 40 clean rooms, many with petite balconies, on a breezy square (budget, www.eljardi-barcelona.com). Centrally located in the Eixample, Hotel Granvia It offers 58 spacious rooms in a renovated 1870s mansion (splurge, www.hotelgranvia.com).
EATING: Near the Block of Discord, La Rita is fresh and dressy restaurant offering Catalan and Mediterranean cuisine at great prices (Carrer d'Arago 279, tel. 934-872-376). Taverna Basca Irati serves a huge variety of Basque "pintxos" -- small, open-faced sandwiches (Carrer del Cardenal Casanyes 17, tel. 933-023-084).
GETTING AROUND: Barcelona's Metro and bus system gets you all around this sprawling city. The T10 Card is good for 10 rides and can be shared between travelers.
TOURIST INFORMATION: www.barcelonaturisme.cat.
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(Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ricksteves.com and follow his blog on Facebook.)
(c)2016 RICK STEVES DISTRIBUTED BY TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC.
