El Born Cultural Center

El Born is a district within the old city of Barcelona with a history dating back to the 13th century. The cultural center, which was originally built to house a market, sits atop an archeological site. The War of Succession, which took place in the early 1700’s after Charles II died leaving no heirs, resulted in the destruction of this area of Barcelona. The El Born CC site includes the remains of some 50 buildings that were demolished to build fortifications.

The El Born market opened in 1876. It was active until 1971. The site was preserved and opened as the El Born Cultural Center in 2013.

Passeig del Born

Once the site of medieval jousting tournaments and a place where executions took place during the Inquisition, the Passeig del Born is now a gathering place and busy night spot.

Fossar de les Moreres

This square is the place where defenders of the city during the War of Succession were buried, in the center is a monument to Catalans who died in the war. Atop the monument is a torch of eternal flame.

Pastisseria Brunell’s

This El Born pastry shop dates back to 1852.

La Boqueria

The Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria is a large public market in central Barcelona with an entrance facing La Rambla. While it has taken many different forms, folks have been selling stuff here for centuries. In 1470, it was a pig market. The current structure came into being in 1840. 

Barceloneta

The Barcelona beach was largely built in 1992 as part of the preparation for the Olympic Games. While it is hard to imagine now, looking at this active beachfront area, this was once a shantytown called Somorrostro.

Estancia de Franca

This railway station opened in 1848 and was the end point for trains arriving from France. It is still operated by Renfe, but has been replaced by Sants as the main station for international and long distance services.