Barcelona / Madrid - Day Five - February 27, 2008

I checked out of my hotel and headed to the Rambla. There were many street performers and the pet market. Apparently they must train people to act like statues until people give them money. I have never seen so many per square meter as in Spain.


I entered the baroque church, Betlem.


Then I found the Placa Reial.

I took bus 24 in front of Casa Batllo to park Guell, a gaudi master piece.









I return to my hotel for my bag and bus to the airport. My flight was delayed, but stress free. I took a taxi from the airport to my new hotel. This one is near a ben and jerry's and dough nut place! It ranks two thumbs up. I retired to my room to catch up on much needed sleep.

Barcelona - Day Four - February 26, 2008

I started off my day, with my traditional doughnuts! I walked a block from my hotel to the Casa Batllo which was designed by Gaudi. The Casa Batllo, with skull-like balconies and a tile roof that suggest a cresting dragon's back; Gaudi ased the work on the popular St. Jordie (George) legend, in which he slays the dragon.


Next I took the metro to the Catalan Concert hall for my reserve tour. It is designed in the Catalan art noveau style, Modernista. It has a beatuiful stain glass celling. I was forbidden from taking pictures on the inside, but bought some wonderful postcards.

I walked to the Cathedral and Cloisters.



I followed the road to Santa Maria del Mar. It is a beautiful church.




I finally walked all the way to the Harbor to look at the boats.
I took the metro to the Picasso museum. Photography was not allowed. I was tired at this point and returned to my hotel.