Barcelona

From Vic to Barcelona it's just under two hours by train - how could I resist visiting? I gave up on searching for couchsurfers, thousands of tourists flock to Catalonia's party hot spot during the summer months. But as luck would have it, my best friend is currently in Germany with an Italian woman who has a free room in Barcelona. Yes, crazy :D Inspired by so many coincidences, I arrive at the apartment in the Barceloneta neighborhood. The first thing I do here? I run to the beach, excited like a child, to jump into the sea, but what is this? Thousands of drunk, lobster-red or orange-brown people are crowded on the beach, Sangria flowing in all directions and at all times.

I decide to go for a swim in the morning, better not blind anyone with my healthy complexion...

What can I say, Barcelona is an incredible city with centuries-old history, wars, and of course, the unbroken fight for independence. Catalonia as the "last Spanish colony" is recognizable on every corner, the flags, even on public buildings, clearly show the resistance against Madrid. I understand Edu's attitude more and more.

But what impressed me the most is the ubiquitous art movement of Modernisme (Catalan Art Nouveau), which is mainly characterized by Gaudi's works.

Actually, the Basilica Sagrada Familia is pure art, every detail has been thought through, unusual natural and organic forms are a key feature. Even as a "non-believer", I feel the awe inside, it is a very emotional place.

For the mathematicians among you, I found a puzzle on the Passion Façade, what could the tablet mean?

The city is full of people, too much for my taste, but it is the colorful hustle and bustle that also defines Barcelona:

Three days in Barcelona are definitely too short, I already need two nights to get used to the noise, not to mention the smell of the sewers... Towards the end, I feel myself being captivated by the city and yet I am glad to move on. It's just nicer in big cities with a Cerveza buddy. So, on to the next stage in the Pyrenees - it remains exciting.