The Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter (Barrio Gótico) is the true heart of Barcelona, core of the medieval quarter of the city which until the mid-nineteenth century was surrounded by walls.
Strolling through its maze of ancient streets you reach the Cathedral, which dates back to the thirteenth century. The nearby Plaza del Rey features the Gothic buildings of Palau Reial Major, Saló del Tinell, Capella de Santa Agata and Palau del Lloctinent. In the square you can also find the City of Barcelona History Museum. In Plaza Sant Jaume is the city hall and the Palau de la Generalitat, home to the Government of Catalonia.
In the Gothic Quarter you can also find El Call, the old Jewish quarter from the Middle Ages. Plaza del Pi and Calle Petritxol are home to traditional shops displaying all their charms, with further retail activity on the streets such as Ferran, Portaferrissa and – in particular - Portal de l'Angel, a landmark shopping street which connects the old town with Plaza Catalunya.
