The largest city in Spain is the capital of Madrid, and the second largest city is Barcelona. Located on the eastern coastline of the country, Barcelona is the biggest city in Europe to be situated along the Mediterranean Sea. It is also considered one of the best places to visit for a variety of authentic Spanish fish and shellfish dishes.
Museums in Barcelona
Barcelona has several great museums, including the National Museum of Art of Catalonia, which showcases Romanesque art in particular. Modern art from the post-WWII period can be seen at the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art, though to see works by the renowned Spanish artist Pablo Picasso, it is best to visit the Picasso museum in the city.
Other museums focus more on the history of the region, including the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia and the City History Museum, which concentrates on Barcelona itself. Another popular choice for tourists since 2006 has been the Cosmocaixa, the science museum that won the coveted European Museum of the Year 2006.
Architecture in Barcelona
The most famous structure in Barcelona is the Sagrada Familia, a cathedral designed by modern architect Antonio Gaudi. The Sagrada Familia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most visited attractions in the city.
Those who find Gaudi’s work intriguing will also want to visit the Park Güell. This outdoor garden complex has also been designated as a World Heritage Site. Constructed during the decade that preceded World War I, the park contains freeform fences and benches as well as other decorative elements designed by the Catalan architect.