Barcelona

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Finally made it to another country...just when I was getting sick of baguettes and croissants. Spain is definitely a different world. Its history is pretty interesting. A lot of religious wars (esp. against the Moors), invasions and it's still pretty young as a democratic country. But I guess tourism is thriving here and its economy is growing because of it. I can see why. There's a lot to see and do and it feels different from the other parts of Europe that I saw. It's as if a lot of the culture has remained intact without as much "western" influence. It's hard to explain. I really wish I could've seen more of Spain, especially Madrid and Seville. Maybe next time. Traveled down Las Ramblas, Barcelona's main shopping strip. Lots of street performers here...and they're all very talented. Also drank yummy sangria (tastes different from Dominick's).

I do have to mention this Antonio Gaudi guy, the famous architect who seems to have had a run of the city before his death. His designs are definitely unique. I'm guessing that you need to think outside the box or really understand architecture in order to truly appreciate it. But you've gotta see this Sagrada Familia, his still unfinished cathedral, to really understand what I mean. This thing is huge, unbelievably detailed and estimated to be completed in 2025. And yes, he died in 1926.

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Photos

View of the port
This was taken on top of one of the hills.

Me at Sagrada Familia
Standing in front of the most unbelievable piece of architecture ever

Sagrada Familia
A detailed look at the front. I took a ton more pictures of it but I'll save it for Facebook.

Christopher Columbus monument
I thought it was strange that Barcelona had a monument dedicated to someone that we have a national holiday for. Also, nobody knows where he's pointing 'cause it's definitely not America.

Food market
These are the famous food markets located just off of Las Ramblas. This area is famous for its tapas bars. You should definitely check them out, esp. if you like seafood.

Futbol jerseys everywhere
Wow...Europe loves its soccer.

Park Guell
This is the park that Gaudi designed. Lots of crazy sculptures and buildings but definitely beautiful with lots of nature and an amazing view of the city.

More Park Guell
More Gaudi sculptures.