In Barcelona, You Got To Strut Like You Mean It

This past fall term, I studied abroad in Spain! During my three-month stay, we had several class excursions and our last one was to the beautiful city of Barcelona. Our first stop was to Parque Guell, designed by Antonio Gaudi, the face of Catalan modernism. This public park has gardens and architectural elements inspired by nature and geometric shapes. Although it is open to the public, the main terrace of the park is accessible only with the purchase of a ticket.

After the park, we went to the Sagrada Familia, a basilica again designed by Gaudi. When I first saw the church, I was surprised by its impressive size. It’s still under construction too, which means that it’ll only grow bigger! As we walked inside, I immediately looked for my camera trying to capture the beauty of the stain glass windows and overall design, but none of my pictures do it it any justice.

During our second day, we strolled through Las Ramblas. I was reminded of New York City, not only because it was crowded with lots of tourists, but also for the stores and restaurants. I saw a McDonald’s next to a KFC along with stores I hadn’t found in Madrid like Urban Outfitters. I didn’t even think Urban Outfitters existed in Spain considering my host sister told me she never heard of it. Then, we entered La Boqueria market. There, I sampled turron, a sweet Spanish nougat typically eaten during Christmastime.

All throughout the city, I noticed Catalan flags and signs saying “Si o Si,” urging people to vote yes to Catalan independence from Spain. On our last day, prior to entering the Barcelona Cathedral, I saw “Si o Si” posters on a nearby office building. When we returned later that day, after visiting the Iglesia de Santa Maria, the signs were gone. Most likely people against Catalan independence took them down, but aside from that one action, there was a general environment of peace surrounding the vote. Approximately 2 million people came out to the polls, resulting in a majority vote for independence. Cataluña, however, remains a part of Spain because holding the referendum itself is technically unconstitutional.  

My trip to Barcelona was both entertaining and educational. I cannot wait to return and learn and see even more of this modern and globalized city. Before I do though, I need to catch up with The Cheetah Girls 2 and their adventures throughout the Barcelona streets.