How to Enjoy Barcelona | Best Food & Drink Places Per Neighbourhood
When I moved to Barcelona for my Erasmus exchange, someone gave me a handwritten list with recommendations. She was doing her Master’s degree in Barcelona
Spain is a beautiful country located in southwestern Europe, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes. It is the fourth largest country in Europe and is home to over 47 million people. The official language is Spanish, and the currency is the Euro. Spain has a long and fascinating history, with influences from the Roman Empire, the Moors, and the Catholic Church. The country is renowned for its art, architecture, and cuisine, and is famous for its festivals such as La Tomatina and the Running of the Bulls. Spain is also home to some of the world’s top tourist destinations, including Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, and the beaches of the Costa del Sol.
“Cathedral of the Sea” is a historical novel by Spanish author Ildefonso Falcones. The story takes place in 14th century Barcelona and follows the life of Arnau Estanyol, a poor serf who works on a feudal estate. Arnau eventually escapes to Barcelona, where he becomes a successful shipbuilder and participates in the construction of Santa Maria del Mar, a cathedral dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The novel explores themes of social hierarchy, religion, politics, and love, and offers a vivid portrayal of life in medieval Barcelona.
“The Shadow of the Wind” is a novel by Spanish author Carlos Ruiz Zafón. Set in post-World War II Barcelona, the story follows a young boy named Daniel Sempere who discovers a mysterious book called “The Shadow of the Wind” by an obscure author named Julian Carax. As Daniel delves into Carax’s life and tries to uncover the secrets surrounding his work, he finds himself caught up in a dangerous web of intrigue, romance, and betrayal. The novel is a blend of genres, including mystery, historical fiction, and coming-of-age, and has been praised for its vivid descriptions of Barcelona and its Gothic atmosphere.
“The Frozen Heart” is a novel by Spanish author Almudena Grandes. It weaves together the lives of its characters, exploring themes of love, passion, and the complexities of human relationships. The story is set in Spain and follows the intertwined destinies of various characters, delving into their inner worlds and personal struggles.
“Don Quixote” is a classic novel written by Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes. It tells the story of an aging nobleman, Don Quixote, who becomes obsessed with chivalric romances and decides to become a knight-errant, taking on the name Don Quixote and setting out on a series of adventures with his loyal squire, Sancho Panza. The novel is a satirical exploration of idealism, reality, and the power of imagination, and it has had a profound influence on literature and culture worldwide.
“A Heart So White” is a novel by Spanish author Javier Marías. It is a contemplative and introspective work that delves into the complexities of human relationships, secrets, and the nature of truth. The story revolves around Juan, a translator and newlywed, who is haunted by the discovery of a dark family secret. The narrative is marked by its philosophical musings and intricate prose, making it a thoughtful exploration of the human psyche.
“The Sea Inside” is a Spanish drama film directed by Alejandro Amenábar. Based on a true story, it follows the life of Ramón Sampedro, a quadriplegic man who fought for his right to die with dignity. Confined to his bed for almost 30 years, Ramón’s desire to end his life becomes a legal and ethical battle that challenges societal norms and raises profound questions about freedom, mortality, and the value of life.
“The Platform” is a Spanish science fiction thriller directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia. Set in a vertical prison known as “The Hole,” the film explores a dystopian society where inmates are assigned to different levels, with food being delivered to the top and gradually descending. As the platform arrives on each level, it becomes a struggle for survival, exposing the brutal realities of class inequality, human nature, and the desperate quest for sustenance.
“The Innocent” is a Spanish thriller series based on the novel by Harlan Coben. The story revolves around Mateo Vidal, a man who finds himself entangled in a web of secrets and violence after a mysterious phone call disrupts his seemingly perfect life. As Mateo unravels the truth, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy that forces him to confront his past and make difficult choices to protect his loved ones, leading to a suspenseful journey filled with twists and turns.
“Volver” is a 2006 Spanish drama film written and directed by Pedro Almodovar. The movie tells the story of Raimunda, a working-class woman in Madrid who must deal with various crises in her life, including the death of her abusive husband and the reappearance of her mother, who died in a fire years earlier. The film explores themes of family, female relationships, grief, and resilience, and it is known for its vibrant characters, stunning visuals, and a touch of magical realism. “Volver” features an outstanding ensemble cast led by Penelope Cruz, who won the Best Actress award at the Cannes Film Festival for her performance in the movie. The film was a critical and commercial success and has been hailed as one of Almodovar’s best works.
“La Casa de Papel” (also known as “Money Heist”) is a Spanish crime thriller television series created by Alex Pina. The show follows a group of eight robbers who, under the guidance of their enigmatic leader, known as “The Professor,” carry out a meticulously planned heist on the Royal Mint of Spain. Over the course of the series, the robbers face numerous obstacles and challenges as they try to complete their mission while avoiding the police and other unexpected complications. The show is known for its intricate plot, engaging characters, and unexpected twists and turns. “La Casa de Papel” has become a global phenomenon, with fans around the world drawn to its blend of action, drama, and suspense.
Spain has a rich and diverse musical heritage, influenced by the various cultures that have inhabited the country throughout its history. Traditional Spanish music includes flamenco, a style of music and dance that originated in the Andalusia region and is characterized by intricate guitar playing, handclapping, and passionate singing. Other traditional styles include the jota, a lively dance from the northern regions of Spain, and the sevillanas, a festive dance from Andalusia.
In addition to traditional music, Spain has also made significant contributions to classical music, with famous composers such as Isaac Albéniz, Manuel de Falla, and Joaquín Rodrigo. The country has also produced many successful contemporary musicians, including Julio Iglesias, Alejandro Sanz, and Rosalía, who has brought flamenco to a new generation with her fusion of traditional styles with modern pop and hip-hop.
When I moved to Barcelona for my Erasmus exchange, someone gave me a handwritten list with recommendations. She was doing her Master’s degree in Barcelona
In 2014, I moved to Barcelona for an Erasmus exchange and decided to pick up Spanish. I always wanted to learn another language, and this
