La Rambla Walking Tour (Self Guided), Barcelona

The 60-meter Columbus Monument at the lower end of Barcelona's La Rambla was built for the 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition. Honoring Christopher Columbus’ first voyage to the Americas, the monument symbolizes his return to Barcelona, upon which he reported to Queen Isabella I and King Ferdinand V.

The structure features a 7.2-meter bronze statue of Columbus atop a 40-meter Corinthian column. Originally intended to face west, towards the Americas, Columbus is instead depicted pointing east – reportedly towards his birthplace of Genoa, Italy. Others, however, believe that it simply strikes a dramatic pose toward the sea, symbolizing Columbus’ achievements in naval exploration. The statue stands on a base inscribed with the word "Tierra," which means “land”. Below it, the column is supported by an octagonal pedestal adorned with bronze victories, griffins, and medallions representing figures related to Columbus.

The pedestal’s base includes sculptures of historical figures, such as cartographer Jaume Ferrer and Catholic preacher Father Bernat de Boïl, along with bas-relief panels that illustrate significant moments from Columbus’ voyage, including his departure from Palos de la Frontera and his meeting with the King and Queen in Barcelona. Additionally, the monument’s base features coats-of-arms from locations that Columbus visited, such as Puerto Rico and Cuba.

The idea for the monument originated in 1856. Funded mostly through private donations, it was completed in 1888. The monument is exclusively a Catalan endeavor, with all the labor and materials sourced from the region, thus symbolizing the Catalans' recognition of Christopher Columbus as one of their own, despite his Italian origins.

Tip:
Take the time to go around the monument and observe the sculptures showcased at its base.
Inside the column, visitors can take an elevator to a viewing platform for a sweeping panorama of the surrounding area.
Also, check out the wine bar at the monument's cellar and a boutique offering unique souvenirs and gifts that surpass the mass-produced items found at street vendors.
A combined ticket for both the lift ride and wine tasting can be obtained at the base of the monument.

Viewing Platform:
Daily: 8:30 am–2:30 pm

Barcelona's maritime museum is housed in the impressive Gothic Royal Shipyards ("Reials Drassanes"), a significant relic from the city's maritime empire that lasted well into the 18th century. After undergoing extensive renovations in 2016, the museum now features a new entrance from Plaça Portal de la Pau and large windows that flood the space with natural light, along with brand-new facilities throughout.

The 13.5-meter high hall now includes a metal sculpture of a whale and a vibrant painting by renowned artist Xavier Mariscal. Visitors can explore a range of fascinating exhibits, including a full-scale replica of Don Juan de Austria's flagship from the 16th century, traditional fishing vessels, antique navigation charts, dioramas depicting the Barcelona waterfront, and a life-sized replica of the Ictíneo I, one of the world's earliest submarines invented by Catalan polymath Narcís Monturiol in 1858.

With a regularly changing schedule of up to eleven temporary exhibitions, there is always something new to explore. Additionally, the museum provides a variety of activities, including navigation workshops and stargazing sessions, which can be booked through their website. As an added bonus, the museum entry ticket includes a short tour of the Santa Eulàlia – a beautiful vintage three-masted schooner docked at the picturesque Moll de la Fusta harbourside – and there is a delightful courtyard café where one can enjoy a peaceful hour or two.

It would take a truly unyielding spirit to resist the amusement offered by the city's wax museum. Housed within an elegant 19th-century bank building, this museum unveils a series of increasingly absurd scenes in its vast halls and dimly lit corridors. These tableaux portray recitals, meetings, and social gatherings featuring a peculiar and somewhat twisted ensemble of characters, ranging from Hitler to Princess Diana (detailed information on the lives of these personalities is also provided). Needless to say, the experience is highly entertaining, reaching its climax with cheesy underwater tunnels, space capsules, and an unsettling "Terror Room." Even if this doesn't pique your interest, it is unquestionably worth peeking into the museum's extraordinary grotto café/bar, known as El Bosc de les Fades. This enchanted "forest" is adorned with magically illuminated gnarled trees and gnomes, creating an otherworldly ambiance.

Nestled in a discreet corner off the bustling La Rambla, the Güell Palace is an inaugural masterpiece of the architect Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona, which swiftly propelled him to international acclaim.

Now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site called the "Works of Antoni Gaudí", this mansion was built between 1886 and 1888 for the industrial tycoon and Gaudí's lifelong patron, Eusebi Güell. The building showcases Gaudí's innovative use of iron supports as decorative elements, featuring twisted columns, arches, and intricate ceilings, topped with a whimsical array of tiled chimneys on the roof terrace.

Designed for high-society gatherings, the home’s central room has a tall ceiling, soaring three floors high, with a cupola. At night, to produce the appearance of a starlit sky, lanterns were hung from the outside through the small holes near the top. Arriving in horse-drawn carriages, guests entered the property through grand oval gates adorned with ironwork resembling seaweed. Horses were taken to a livery stable in the basement, while guests ascended to the receiving room. The walls and ceilings of this room contain discreet observation holes, allowing the owner to view guests from above before making an entrance.

With no budget constraints, Gaudí utilized the finest materials and craftsmanship to create a space that blends function and artistry seamlessly. This residence served as a preview of Gaudí’s future architectural innovations and his flair for combining structural elements with imaginative design.

Being slightly tucked away from the renowned La Rambla promenade, this lesser-known gem attracts fewer tourists, while offering a delightful opportunity to admire Gaudí's work in the charming old quarter of the city.

Tip:
The building's highlight is the rooftop terrace and its colorful chimneys adorned with mosaic and broken tiles. Note: on a rainy day, the rooftop may be closed, so it's advisable to check in advance the weather forecast to ensure a pleasant visit.

Situated to the north of La Rambla and a few blocks south of Catalonia Square, the Market of Saint Joseph de La Boqueria is extremely busy no matter what time of day or season you come. Colloquially referred to simply as La Boqueria, this large public market is one of Barcelona's foremost tourist landmarks with a broad choice of goods on offer.

Initially, the area was an unofficial extension of the New Square market. The name "Boqueria" possibly originates from the Catalan word "boc" for goat, indicating a place for selling goat meat. Indeed, the first mention of La Boqueria, as the meat market near the old city gate, dates back to 1217. By 1470, it was renamed “pig market” and afterward remained known as a straw market, up until 1794.

In 1826, the market gained an official status, and in 1835, plans were made for a formal structure on La Rambla. Construction began in 1840 and the market officially opened the same year. After several modifications, the building was inaugurated in 1853. A new fish market was added in 1911, and the current metal roof was installed in 1914, giving the market its present look.

Despite the constant flow of visitors, the experienced vendors efficiently handle the crowds, and the market's spacious layout helps ensure an enjoyable shopping experience. La Boqueria offers a fantastic opportunity to explore traditional Catalan cuisine. Here, you can take yourself on a tapas tour, sample exquisite jamón with cheese, purchase the world's freshest saffron (sold in various-sized small boxes), and enjoy local seafood (except for Sundays and Mondays when no fish is sold), plus discover many other culinary delights.

Also, don't miss the chance to try the freshly cooked fish at Kiosko Universal (a sit-down counter and bar-like place) or indulge in the wide variety of olives and delicious fresh fruits. Venture deep into the market to find the best stalls and taste a little bit of everything – you won't be disappointed.

Tip:
Keep in mind that the area is known for pickpocketing incidents, so whether you're alone or with friends, it is recommended to be vigilant and keep a close eye on your belongings.

Barcelona is renowned for its collection of peculiar artworks and museums, and among them stands the Erotic Museum situated on La Rambla. This unique establishment offers a surprisingly extensive exploration of erotic history, focusing on both the educational and recreational facets of human sexuality—an enduring theme that transcends cultures and races throughout history.

Within the museum, visitors can delve into the diverse manifestations of eroticism across different societies. Literature, illustrations, artworks, and even archaeological discoveries serve as mediums to showcase the evolution of eroticism in various cultures. With over 800 artifacts predominantly sourced from Rome and Greece, the museum provides a comprehensive understanding of the rituals, religious beliefs, and leisurely aspects associated with eroticism.

Operating until midnight, the museum offers translations in multiple languages and the option of themed guided tours. It's an experience that, as expected, leaves little to the imagination while maintaining a tasteful and enjoyable atmosphere.

Just past the Mare de Déu de Betlem church, the pavement recedes, revealing a magnificent view of the Palau de la Virreina. This grand rococo building boasts intricate stonework and ornate metal decorations. Originally completed in 1777 for Manuel Amat, the pleasure-seeking viceroy of Spain in Peru, it earned its name, the "Palace of the Viceroy's Wife", as his widow resided here for many years after his untimely death. Don't miss the palace's entrance and the meticulously carved floral designs adorning the pediments.

Constructed with two courtyards, the building is now known as the Virreina Centre de la Imatge. It serves as a cultural hub, hosting various events and exhibitions centered around contemporary art, film, and photography. At the building's front, you'll find a box office where you can obtain information and last-minute tickets for concerts, theater performances, dance shows, gallery exhibitions, and museum visits. If you venture to the courtyard's rear, you'll often catch a glimpse of the city's colossal Carnival giants ("gegants"), depicting the 13th-century Catalan king Jaume I and his wife, Violant. The origin of these elaborate five-meter-tall figures remains uncertain, but they likely originated from medieval traveling fairs and have become an integral part of Barcelona's festival processions.

Tip:
Adjacent to the palace stands the charming Casa Beethoven, a Modernista building that has been selling sheet music since 1920.

Catalonia Square, a meeting place between the historic Old Town and the modern upscale Eixample district of Barcelona, is rightfully considered the city's central point. Several of Barcelona’s main arteries converge here, such as Gràcia Boulevard, La Rambla, Rambla de Catalunya, and the Angel's Gate, making it a significant urban hub. Covering approximately 50,000 square meters, the square is known for its fountains, statues, and numerous pigeons.

Catalonia Square began to take shape after the medieval city walls were demolished in the 19th century, starting its initial development in 1902. Further urbanization occurred in 1929 for the Barcelona International Exposition, based on designs by architect Francesc de Paula Nebot. During the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s, the square witnessed some key moments in Barcelona’s history, including the so-called May Days, a series of clashes between 3 and 8 May 1937 during which factions on the Republican side of the Spanish Civil War engaged one another in street battles.

Today, the square is home to several prominent sculptures such as “Deessa” by Josep Clarà and “Pastor de Pau” by Pablo Gargallo, along with a monument dedicated to Catalan politician Francesc Macià.

The Barcelona Telephone Exchange, situated nearby, features stained glass windows by artist Brian Clarke, created in 1991 to celebrate the 1992 Olympic Games. The underground mosaics were designed by students of Massana School.

Although historically Catalonia Square has hosted various theaters, none of them remains today. Similarly, many of the famous cafes that once attracted writers and artists disappeared during the Spanish Civil War. Café Zurich is one of the few surviving establishments. Presently, the square is surrounded by shopping centers like El Corte Inglés, FNAC, and El Triangle, as well as several hotels.

As a major transportation hub, Catalonia Square connects different parts of the city through its extensive above-ground and underground networks, making it an essential point for locals and tourists alike.

Tip:
While the fountains are beautiful during the day, make sure to witness their display at night when they come alive with alternating colored lights.