 | Today we speak of a neighborhood in Barcelona, the place where Locura Cotidiana was born: GRACIA!
Omar Martinez
www.locuracotidiana.com |
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| Map (click to enlarge) |
We begin with a brief introduction to the history of Gracia. If you look at the map of Barcelona (left) you can clearly distinguish the parts that were once the medieval cities and towns. They show a chaotic and spontaneous array of narrow streets, where feet and hooves were the only means of transport. At that time Cuitat Vella was the city of Barcelona, and Gracia was an independent town uphill in the north. From the city walls to the Vila de Gracia there were only cultivated fields. In 1854 the royal court in Madrid authorized the demolition of the walls around Barcelona, which prevented its urban development. In 1859 the plan by Ildefons Cerdá was approved and the urban grid feature of Barcelona began to take shape. Gracia was an independent village until 1897 when administrative order linked it to the city of Barcelona as one of it´s districts.
That brings us to Gracia today and what is so special about it. When you walk through its ancient streets you do not feel like you're in a big city. The town atmosphere is still present. It is much quieter and less crowded than the Gothic part of Ciutat Vella. Gracia has been relatively untouched by the resounding success of tourist attractions developed by the city in recent years. However, increasingly appearing in our store are visitors who have opted to stay in the area. They are delighted with their quiet breakfast in the many plazas - without the cars, fumes or noise of the city center. In fact, Gracia has more plazas than any other part of the city, with dozens of small bars and restaurants to enjoy. You can combine being in the center of the city with a relaxed and friendly small town atmosphere.
The neighborhood is only about a 15 minute walk or two subway stops from the tourist center of Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter. The Park Güell, one of the finest works of architect Antoni Gaudi, is also easily accessible on foot. Gracia has a creative craft and industrial tradition dating back to mid-nineteenth century. It was the village shops of all kinds that caused the population increase and led to the declaration of an independent municipality. Today that tradition continues with numerous designers who sell their original creations. Here is a link to the website of Gracia creators and designers of the G3:
www.rutagracia.com
Our store is located in the picturesque Plaza de la Vila de Gracia, also popularly known as La Plaza del Reloj. The administrative and political center of the neighborhood is located here. The square is most unique and has an interesting story, especially its famous clock tower. This is a tower topped by a clock of four sides that could be viewed from anywhere in the old town. Inside the clock, and opposite the Town Hall there is a spiral staircase that allows access up to the clock machinery. The clock was built by Albert Billeter who was Swiss by birth and responsible for the introduction of electric clocks in Spain.
We encourage you to discover the advantages of staying in Gracia on your next visit. You will certainly enjoy it.
We have included some links below to find hotels and apartments.
http://www.booking.com
http://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com
http://www.oh-barcelona.com
http://www.softguides.com
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