Today was a gift to unwrap. No rain!!!!! And a blue sky emerged as we relaxed our way through the city.
A nice walk through the park like plaza to the Picasso Museum in the El Born district.
PICASSO MUSEO
The museum has a large and interesting collection of Picasso’s work that follows him through childhood and art training, into the evolution of his style which is represented by larger holdings in other museums.
Artists are often trained using Diego Velazquez’s famous piece, Las Meninas. Back then and still a technical study used in art education. I discovered this with Jesse on her graduation trip. So Picasso’s impressions and style applied to the master work fascinate me.
I am lucky enough to have a beautiful rendering by Jesse of a portion of Las Meninas focused on one of the main figures, La Princessa. I treasure it!
BARRI GOTIC
Walking through the oldest part of the city is fascinating for its winding streets filled with absolutely any and everything. Including bakeries and other confections! We found Torrens, established 1922, with candies and gelato! There are a couple pieces in my suitcase:) and an another gelato memory! You’d think I’m in Italy or something:)
But I opted for a Palmier that uses puff pastry. Delish.
Font de les Oques (Fountain of the Geese).
We took Beth to walk the obligatory La Ramblas and see the Boqueria Market – both of which were more appealing in the past. La Ramblas is currently under much needed construction and barely recognizable as the pedestrian walk I recall. What’s left currently are tabacs and evidence of “red light” enterprises among a throng of folks walking to/from the cruise liners. I understand (Rick Steves) it became a tacky, tourist attraction. We viewed the harbor from the Christopher Columbus monument. Hope the efforts result in a better Ramblas if I return.
Headed by the Palau de Catalan Musica on our way back to our digs.
We got ourselves sorted for the trip home and had a lovely tapas dinner and drinks in our Eixample neighborhood at Faire. We’ve eaten our way through Barcelona!!
Bona Nit!
I had to go look up Las Meninas. I didn’t remember it, so a cool thing to associate with Picasso and Jesse.
I also want BOTH the butter croissant and the palmier. 🙂
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