Textile Museum

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwPt1snKHsaN98qoVb3QQ6BkumhuUsrXDSvaacSSwkGVEeXNDu1j0Yh6llPOtVc99xqOTqd-wO4r3BuBENM0zyMiKz1Pk4b7e2elLSKMZclBNpIAjPUd4BxumHT9FmJYSgWIECGveUe0/s1600/victorian+dress.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552622193560967810" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZwPt1snKHsaN98qoVb3QQ6BkumhuUsrXDSvaacSSwkGVEeXNDu1j0Yh6llPOtVc99xqOTqd-wO4r3BuBENM0zyMiKz1Pk4b7e2elLSKMZclBNpIAjPUd4BxumHT9FmJYSgWIECGveUe0/s400/victorian+dress.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 224px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> Located above the <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2010/11/decorative-screen.html">Museu de Arts Decoratives </a>in the Palau Reial de Padralbes is the Barcelona Textile Museum.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgog7sd5Olkc_wNudyZIVbP1ilD5mw4H3oO9KIp0XV0Sv8mBY7SIz3frafTsiH8W6Li4FJhMGVqNlzH5a80US-83ythmt1N0cqRJwLozVAA1WFB-C66U0JBEA9KnpeyIoQ5o1atn4f-cmk/s1600/Picture+390.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552622193170713458" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgog7sd5Olkc_wNudyZIVbP1ilD5mw4H3oO9KIp0XV0Sv8mBY7SIz3frafTsiH8W6Li4FJhMGVqNlzH5a80US-83ythmt1N0cqRJwLozVAA1WFB-C66U0JBEA9KnpeyIoQ5o1atn4f-cmk/s400/Picture+390.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> Not where you would probably expect me to be spending time, but honestly, we had some time to kill! What a pleasant surprise I had in store.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia4Uzf6VySUhRKwt9z60rmJfgR_9BVg33bYzQv_O-XdSPZ3BrpaVdr3swq4SZPFogqqOMwQX_BTDqfHzrp-2ToJwiAEsmKTDOTMO_n9dQr1dVVBSYqzkZJbXatZvVXvVnj1kQr9pEBcI4/s1600/new+look+bust.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552622191385291090" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia4Uzf6VySUhRKwt9z60rmJfgR_9BVg33bYzQv_O-XdSPZ3BrpaVdr3swq4SZPFogqqOMwQX_BTDqfHzrp-2ToJwiAEsmKTDOTMO_n9dQr1dVVBSYqzkZJbXatZvVXvVnj1kQr9pEBcI4/s400/new+look+bust.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> The amazing collection traces the evolution of fashion: providing interesting 'how tos' such as how the 'new look' bust was created, seen above, and contrasting elements of different styles.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsFshC0FkTRNzjSoOPWylQ0hDFmW90Eu8yEgPRec7E5VtxPVWIiZE6yUckZk17P5z0fGPMVm2EgnBHfE0ne5SYAuaQeN34uXQ1yeyijCLvBb3KSrluXmu71HPFJotfE_qd-0DTNoqUZ4Y/s1600/mermaid+dress.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552622184524180162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsFshC0FkTRNzjSoOPWylQ0hDFmW90Eu8yEgPRec7E5VtxPVWIiZE6yUckZk17P5z0fGPMVm2EgnBHfE0ne5SYAuaQeN34uXQ1yeyijCLvBb3KSrluXmu71HPFJotfE_qd-0DTNoqUZ4Y/s400/mermaid+dress.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 266px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> The patterns of these victorian skirts below were contrasted to a much later 20th century version.<br /><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552621806873009730" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEib-kEk-mmpWtgClNoByswK4sulY325R2L1yE4jZIEHm-E08KXUMjeWgKgyk7k7p1dK2nulJdWNZMDblj9gy2HU1AhN4HIrMH10yk-0whAzQphwxdzWVjt0N0kx35gjfk8-Yq31XWafM-U/s400/hoop+skirt.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 337px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />And just how are those hoop skirts held high? Well, here's how!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3Qrp-2vg5YPiBJ-rsjwzVlQVlPefjxvDo2EO1GwtvkytRaOQ4gordwocYJ1KBZCtckH-xGUlXya4BIRTuv4pzi4Bm5nmpIc3I-5ZQiibqXtMTdzHtL9cbJyvaXdKDIQ9bg7QjbJHBf4/s1600/hoop+skirt+structure.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552621811859058178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ3Qrp-2vg5YPiBJ-rsjwzVlQVlPefjxvDo2EO1GwtvkytRaOQ4gordwocYJ1KBZCtckH-xGUlXya4BIRTuv4pzi4Bm5nmpIc3I-5ZQiibqXtMTdzHtL9cbJyvaXdKDIQ9bg7QjbJHBf4/s400/hoop+skirt+structure.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 265px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a> Seeing the clothing in person and relatively close up was much better than reading about them in a book or magazine.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552621435263343074" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgE95eY7utGt047MMH_bEisIxOshPShUnjcYjVKRzD-ueeMWfwYuBkV-9yhhcTT9aPSIMo38tWyPnS9xJYcO4wDSkVVLV5-WJ53Yck58y6ZN56FxQNsfrkmCCp_-kFPtzRjsGiSjFcH3Vs/s400/flapper+dress.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 251px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The workmanship and details on some of the pieces were amazing, especially loved this flapper look. Notice the white suit in the background, so Gatsby'esque!<br /><div><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552621433292128210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEyOy9GiMIdNel72Afq8vvutpAxTyp33_jkDgH2A94VFwD36bwswHHRZTAg0Sd3X0LL1mKI40EY7IwxwuEGy6KMbqpkKL7wSaccgUO2g7mpah-nBdlKCyIR5aFs-Ubz3JcGu455D_8qKY/s400/flapper+beading+detail.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Examples such as these mid 19th century Empire styled dresses were in such immaculate condition with such vivid colors you would have thought they were just sewn yesterday.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552621428841867170" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEcnDLKI52FM5VORgaL0waDt5xhKyYGvbHuFVqXayXFtS-OFzgHVIQppM20B3Lsm9wv4iKzkozReRCCu__xfLR_gzrgQ1F0W2VvtorwQqY8ZRSRU957QtKdF7FWfCE3xBkYWRHw_aG8zk/s400/empire+waist.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 284px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Seeing this fairly recent dress compared with an Edwardian train was another example of a great pairing.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552621149047280034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LfBbYDUJW6UGFQWCfZZroJVoHGLqNiFa1i0wpNcqWFv4O5fSm_u-rmtHaJ_pMOdD-XS9BxUgXJYe5jl02JF_mOIndmYlAl-hPNo57x1CxlU7MwPO6RTXhiG6OCz8NvvY1cSH2rxuVCQ/s400/dresses.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />And just how are those bustles kept up (throughout different periods)?<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552621145771921762" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIaBBN_bYX4tIOv_aljNQwvKUFwlyyR0BX6GNnRKLOicGiQB6KV1LiaRwbVzo3DoDcAvzKo8nArnAMP7DkLWgU-4ffz7bzLG8SO-1jFI2JjhMUw1FjolGSDPHDpo0o2tNlwOwYmq9zqh8/s400/bustle+behind.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 291px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />The layout of this exhibit really is impeccable. I always say the right presentation can make the most mundane exhibit interesting (I recently saw a fascinating exhibit on parking garages at the <a href="http://www.nbm.org/">NBM</a>. Come on, I mean...they made parking structures interesting!).<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552621141656267154" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_pluR_-KaWaOSIOpjdJuJKV7vJWvTj86nsJ_dsRjMqX3RbKj0Rz2wZAhgk5uqPodjzGjetu6PS3iN6AAZI4_00nhgURt333a3H9tpzQy8MaDWwt32MtkvoUy4DLdEzF5wGbVfwSKyTk4/s400/bustle.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />These bodices were in such beautiful colors.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552620315636272290" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5oRShv1Fo3xWqagIlpEdUE9etKHIKQkVLR1RBLvUUSUpjdXz1TvhAWvS7gC32KgIrP5iGxMzAG1eIF-jVCXxF-Z50TwS5L3A4kmd0xDS4tK8NJU9BRdcmMlkCm3iui5SWkaOzR9EGebE/s400/bodice.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />More amazing beading work.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552620312258402226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwBxm5uRG9vyXG0CdxJ1TLEPL63PBqV-WoNIlIl1biARz3gRxwVEMg2RMpedRYNiK13H6zxaVVAjVeBpOSDAi4E2ExYDfcedJUv37yrU2XPGB3gYaX_4BsuutA4lxnhiMsY84Vbklszs/s400/beading+detail.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />This is a whole lot of look, but in the right situation, pretty fabulous!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552620309899195634" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWpLD6WhGtm_vHzim9kXEGSmXTfE-ja5xfrB_HFcrxgdHc9XfqSbNQs5O-MCZru-5VjcTKF36yJwuxgZroLRcjkxEluLK67EeCM6K1NJWP_V-jUJFz7Lh72gl6X6L0rwzR3r0JvEVWpw/s400/ballgown.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Spain's own Balenciaga is of course represented. I loved all of his clothing they showed. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552619518843344466" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhokm2mGKxPoiBOrbTUe7jwUyC-tBh1mZRxOZWTmckCIBmNQuEe8xpANo7lOX1SaqMpCLDS0LlmdHVegmJo6CjLOXZTd5NROh8NjU6uEfHhvZNStQzEsi1pBxEBV9e6tXq6pxhZm10DKVI/s400/Balenciaga.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Some more bizarre pairings showing yet again how things never change; they just come in and out of fashion, nothing is ever 'new'. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552619516481840722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixifWIKHuU3uHhzdn2mZCCU-XtUJnTF7GNi-yAl-RvR8CUDbRw0ChJrCBKgN9SI69R7zwa2q0x3h4aQ6GWv8PMZ4g9eSHADGIhvuk-OTIzWCy5oGTANG7hj4U1B12osZhGOBVXvJ-r0Oo/s400/assortment.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 280px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />These body conscious dresses below come from all different styles and time periods.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552619512229121970" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoIi1Id9CeGlxEa2KnHAFXKqhWiISlzGiZ4EG0CFTFc_E9uqDCG0Qesgl39onFdlw7XRO4lJhSWZ5fNqUsFjWgqO7__Ocw_68VTNwJ7J8SjmeDARuoI4iMwvPnINaW0XO821EJ8yILYi0/s400/20th+century+dresses.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 336px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" />Not everything is so beautiful, will these ever be back in style? That red men's polyester number really made my skin itch<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjg3l-xjZ8V0vo8AlDpHKtBfgIHewO_73mvlJm37igSF47EVMDOZs_ULB5mNRYuJfLS5SVbITcf3LIWlKwQMerY_PMqkopDTEPz7s4IN5pWnlDlgKlIvv2waAPFG5ZeFWUKC8ydlTB0vs/s1600/hippy+fashion.jpg">!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552621806714057746" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjg3l-xjZ8V0vo8AlDpHKtBfgIHewO_73mvlJm37igSF47EVMDOZs_ULB5mNRYuJfLS5SVbITcf3LIWlKwQMerY_PMqkopDTEPz7s4IN5pWnlDlgKlIvv2waAPFG5ZeFWUKC8ydlTB0vs/s400/hippy+fashion.jpg" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" /></a>Make sure to stop by this amazing museum, right on the metro line. You can't beat 3 museums in 1: Textile, Ceramics and decorative arts.</div></div></div></div></div></div>

Textile Museum

Located above the Museu de Arts Decoratives in the Palau Reial de Padralbes is the Barcelona Textile Museum. Not where you would probably ...

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Saturday Color

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQwfaW6bAYLZFGZ2un_pOYmA6Av-yUV0OSh6_yHww9maZE4QMTkIcFbyBhP6Pf4JRH5xdcLcnACa1o7l0-z4z_4el3Y_lhIdyKHUMkBp7RMRLjw4Yp90NL8nb7VUBZcxKSx76xtJFaw8/s1600/stained+glass.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548916164289225234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOQwfaW6bAYLZFGZ2un_pOYmA6Av-yUV0OSh6_yHww9maZE4QMTkIcFbyBhP6Pf4JRH5xdcLcnACa1o7l0-z4z_4el3Y_lhIdyKHUMkBp7RMRLjw4Yp90NL8nb7VUBZcxKSx76xtJFaw8/s400/stained+glass.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> I hope everyone is having a great (cold) Saturday. I thought this dreary weather could use a dose of Barcelona color. I love the ancient stained glass found in all of the local churches. Somehow, the older the better; the colors are just that much more vivid!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_tBD4B2EL7tilDc8Mdmngq8Q5oHFe_Y2N8G4mLY5qlMrRGI50yJ0eWPkhpcXcvtlCWuzSH6-z7792psYxwlzXE6zyFi1oZ-rp8wiR1HKUIdhU9OXW7rnG0iOkQ-6nwe69kuvzZwpaYas/s1600/placa+de+santa+maria.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5548916159690309570" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_tBD4B2EL7tilDc8Mdmngq8Q5oHFe_Y2N8G4mLY5qlMrRGI50yJ0eWPkhpcXcvtlCWuzSH6-z7792psYxwlzXE6zyFi1oZ-rp8wiR1HKUIdhU9OXW7rnG0iOkQ-6nwe69kuvzZwpaYas/s400/placa+de+santa+maria.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 325px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> The stucco facade on the buildings surrounding the Placa de Santa Maria were the perfect shade of ochre, esp with the greenery for contrast!</div>

Saturday Color

I hope everyone is having a great (cold) Saturday. I thought this dreary weather could use a dose of Barcelona color. I love the ancient s...

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Casa Milà

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglXeZRnQBzfAAGAKI1mYyNQjNLTtUOQmWl5LnzIxvsqvuYPWTz6e6ly2igN1GgRk_jmljUCfC9Zubiaq3eVVLFNgYygYttVRMQP7V5-FMDAFge-cTWMeEhL8qy_aIp-pJGVZYlU7pro58/s1600/Casa+Mila.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545186196955580802" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglXeZRnQBzfAAGAKI1mYyNQjNLTtUOQmWl5LnzIxvsqvuYPWTz6e6ly2igN1GgRk_jmljUCfC9Zubiaq3eVVLFNgYygYttVRMQP7V5-FMDAFge-cTWMeEhL8qy_aIp-pJGVZYlU7pro58/s400/Casa+Mila.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 376px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> One of the most famous Gaudi designed structures in Barcelona is the Casa Mila, an apartment building completed in 1912. This is Gaudi at his best with an interesting amorphous shape and amazingly colorful details.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxZT1ShGreXrznw2a5npkYqL6hhRmszeWL72B40r-z1E_Dt02cccD-b5y4LQjUMTwqYQuBrJiyOlo08wP05vmOSvyZOwHpNUJ6znz2_Umfp2wDYOPXZjDx2I4p1EvKng0n3MBupuM5vXs/s1600/Mila+chimney.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545186194425252834" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxZT1ShGreXrznw2a5npkYqL6hhRmszeWL72B40r-z1E_Dt02cccD-b5y4LQjUMTwqYQuBrJiyOlo08wP05vmOSvyZOwHpNUJ6znz2_Umfp2wDYOPXZjDx2I4p1EvKng0n3MBupuM5vXs/s400/Mila+chimney.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> Besides the beautiful ironwork which I've shown in a few of my previous posts, many of his buildings are exceptional in their roof architecture. Not content with ugly chimneys and ventilation shafts, Gaudi would decorate these utilitarian objects and turn them into works of sculpture.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx52aQXFu9-Pz-gZcHSIM4gUImzLOa3BgPHU1BRh5e8WFC2VKFJ5gNJ6beSVyg1nwHZvWLSbEA9zgS-SBju_cixYOZySYnqgOTp_gOA1aoa51nerK3E7lZoT7k8DvalSbtHJ9bvQmRYC8/s1600/architectural+figures.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5545186185083692674" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx52aQXFu9-Pz-gZcHSIM4gUImzLOa3BgPHU1BRh5e8WFC2VKFJ5gNJ6beSVyg1nwHZvWLSbEA9zgS-SBju_cixYOZySYnqgOTp_gOA1aoa51nerK3E7lZoT7k8DvalSbtHJ9bvQmRYC8/s400/architectural+figures.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 258px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> While I wasn't able to tour the Casa Mila due to time constraints, I was able to bring a small piece home with me. Over the past few years I've been collecting tiny (tacky?) miniature buildings from house museum gift shops and the main ventilation stack from the Casa Mila now sits on my bookshelf in between Thomas Jefferson's <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2009/06/poplar-forest.html">Poplar Forest</a> and Gaudi's nearby <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2010/11/windows-of-gaudi.html">Casa Battlo</a>. What do you like to bring home from your travels as a momento?</div></div>

Casa Milà

One of the most famous Gaudi designed structures in Barcelona is the Casa Mila, an apartment building completed in 1912. This is Gaudi at h...

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Palau Güell

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY1IGbPG0uxv7gSR_2BHOHoXHWJv3K2aQFdNRVGbxYxKdR58fj85YxNZQGHteiL9xZfHkkjp2XJ_BU5UZiglLdFQOepfyyUVpCYTN6B9f6euyta6ToV3ZpLR0M0eim5aEXlaPoNb8aM0k/s1600/entrance.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544755277099050162" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY1IGbPG0uxv7gSR_2BHOHoXHWJv3K2aQFdNRVGbxYxKdR58fj85YxNZQGHteiL9xZfHkkjp2XJ_BU5UZiglLdFQOepfyyUVpCYTN6B9f6euyta6ToV3ZpLR0M0eim5aEXlaPoNb8aM0k/s400/entrance.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> One of the lesser known Gaudi designed buildings in Barcelona is the Palau Guell. Unfortunately closed for repairs after years of work, I wasn't able to see inside which I hear is pretty amazing.<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw2jOf3fF5ikRgJWzHVpbvYLFq9B-6HfkojacrN1sAn5d1Md5SY0uQEAnYaX-bi1ddEKspPoKlW_-wKtGRaIlI3q2BUDMsS4RosZo5UjVehwv7w-Al6ba_CRLu45WsU3hEVjM0HB305eo/s1600/facade.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544755273475917554" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw2jOf3fF5ikRgJWzHVpbvYLFq9B-6HfkojacrN1sAn5d1Md5SY0uQEAnYaX-bi1ddEKspPoKlW_-wKtGRaIlI3q2BUDMsS4RosZo5UjVehwv7w-Al6ba_CRLu45WsU3hEVjM0HB305eo/s400/facade.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>The Guell name is not unfamiliarly associated with the architect, as many of Gaudi's most famous designs were commissioned by the family. This was the Guell's main townhouse, built by Eusebi Guell from 1886-1890 directly off La Rambla. The house stayed in family hands, with a brief confiscation as army barracks during the civil war, until it was gifted to the country in 1945.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544755145590847106" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAtOpmcgeYbnQ4qwfYZQoYpbRUzwT2w6L70iO-hiLE6umVbWZuGp5eu9m0csaMuAQ38mDIOAxLRPgIS2NJ84_cHttKyP9U7VlphXAw3cFFjAKSqlmzDXdk9vwNJ6qRhJEqwKwS8OEqWRQ/s400/iron+bird.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div><div>The main entrances seen on the facade were meant for carriages, one for 'in' and one 'out'; hows that for efficiency, much like a restaurant kitchen! <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544755135692755234" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGkwYnlQXhrQQxaoLe8SIHlMzm9HZLlzodlEVhGircjVTbdQkxwnCYxstMGIStwV9AP7HxyqAraNh8apXvm6Fs6yxTBSjjvg6kgXJdD3MZKWf6suGbl6Wt8fnKI8UscgRL2Y9G86k4qao/s400/ironwork.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" />The house revolved around entertaining and a large main entertaining room was located just inside off the entry court. The ceiling was studded with holes into the private rooms above to look like starlight, which also provided views of guests below so that the family could decide what to appropriately wear to greet their guests. Another efficient and ingenius idea!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544755133906258050" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-o4TP_kMEgDCXVrbNXfz26vDBiD1fpYD4KTEkfWcxlEJ8xDOdoAfFY0XyTZauvQ9igkU72IyRiVp364FtmT71_1OsxZB6IwV21a-VCA_IHKST8dEaJbL_haccPLaBobJl6foYMy3JBIQ/s400/bay+window.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div><div>As I wasn't able to see this for myself (the house should be open to the public again by summer 2011) I had to content myself with the beautiful ironwork on the windows outside; true masterpieces.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544755125555607922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe9XilxM3Td-hq9oUHiWy6ZdeJUhWmGKv2Oq3jn27pBe0l9K_lbnEJtsutASnrSWrzhakL9XTmagduOGUQAlmccFJSKcQBdXuOnvzA3zP9Zf3RtH-9LmA7ZppNfSchSHtrWHe5rmEBxwY/s400/row+of+windows.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> <div>The small street that it's located on off La Rambla makes it hard to get a very good picture but you can see below that the facade is actually rather plain and quiet for a <em>modernista</em> structure, no matter how lovely. The exterior interest lays in the details of course which I've tried to show here. <img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544755121886786226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk45_VfCYRzFT7Khu0-QdXKKBHLDXxHdhNpLukzjm5KjesGNxuUwHJzMBMXIhtUz9E-XuDdWXgqGRQ6mfTDwfD2iO_FFGtu8agoBHF6TNuiCX08KywVrnD4OB0XSBFPIu2Efv8CCh96RE/s400/looking+up.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />I think the lesson here is that Gaudi knew when his buildings should be stand out <strong>stars</strong>, and when they should be background structures. They can't all be masterpieces; sometimes a house is just a house, no matter how extraordinary!</div></div></div></div></div></div>

Palau Güell

One of the lesser known Gaudi designed buildings in Barcelona is the Palau Guell. Unfortunately closed for repairs after years of work, I w...

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A bright idea

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQIBCoKHhsQO2818jQVH_f-v7ZQ7mxmlj5qSS75rz4oLZdo8r9X0dZhRjr401JdYfAyUpkbOviUlXoHExJOqB1ifRei0uNlxSQtNnmZM6DUEZ73ZSMlfVu2R76lVVDUq1-Yff6nakMsE/s1600/colored+flowers.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540310816748634098" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIQIBCoKHhsQO2818jQVH_f-v7ZQ7mxmlj5qSS75rz4oLZdo8r9X0dZhRjr401JdYfAyUpkbOviUlXoHExJOqB1ifRei0uNlxSQtNnmZM6DUEZ73ZSMlfVu2R76lVVDUq1-Yff6nakMsE/s400/colored+flowers.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> While in Barcelona, I stayed at <a href="http://www.lemeridienbarcelona.com/?PS=EAME_aa_Starwood_Iberia-1931_Google%20US_the%20meridien%20spain%205%20star_04/23/10">Le Meridien</a> on La Rambla. In the lobby next to the elevators was a vase of lilies that were very peculiar; their color changed, pink to white to blue to yellow. Now how did they do that?<br />Up in the ceiling was a very regular looking little box hidden in the stair opening that threw a slowly changing point of colored light onto the arrangement; So slow that it was barely perceivable. I began to wonder, weren't those flowers pink this morning or am I going crazy? Just another bright idea, sometimes technology IS useful!

A bright idea

While in Barcelona, I stayed at Le Meridien on La Rambla. In the lobby next to the elevators was a vase of lilies that were very peculiar;...

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Stunning shells

<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv80PEGFtl9InWXSTThrQ_32uecyzMzhAlQ69CtBosNqgulWh0ZK7PUDV4R2bic8tZzaEylidFQ_S0L4JOVpB_pJf78cMZDxlnUEPnrP0szT5askAR2NMsIL0E-cQq17BMsHv1i2vBGUY/s1600/shells.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540736118162450002" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiv80PEGFtl9InWXSTThrQ_32uecyzMzhAlQ69CtBosNqgulWh0ZK7PUDV4R2bic8tZzaEylidFQ_S0L4JOVpB_pJf78cMZDxlnUEPnrP0szT5askAR2NMsIL0E-cQq17BMsHv1i2vBGUY/s400/shells.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 313px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>Another fascinating pair of objects from the decorative arts museum were these Victorian era (what is the spanish era equivalent?) shell bouquets. While these are relatively common, I had never seen any so colorful or intricate before!<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTA-X73er_pGoMeKx_huszXXeTHzPZhCbufP_GS11uAl0Por8aXZctOwzVfbDIlvNYv-kt_BBm76R6usVFFsR9cgGqzn_6KGdr2NzMl_Yf91Ug5ajmO34BF97awrqYX8u2aWw__i1Wo4/s1600/shell+tree.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540736106537472786" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUTA-X73er_pGoMeKx_huszXXeTHzPZhCbufP_GS11uAl0Por8aXZctOwzVfbDIlvNYv-kt_BBm76R6usVFFsR9cgGqzn_6KGdr2NzMl_Yf91Ug5ajmO34BF97awrqYX8u2aWw__i1Wo4/s400/shell+tree.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 291px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> This one in particular was stunning - an entire garden with maiden under a canopy of shell flowers under a glass dome! Sadly the lighting in the museum needs an upgrade and the picture isn't as clear as I had hoped for. Maybe some summer craft ideas for at the beach?</div>

Stunning shells

Another fascinating pair of objects from the decorative arts museum were these Victorian era (what is the spanish era equivalent?) shell bou...

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A decorative screen

<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540314254123937474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiF6Cj1BR5HNCkLsPdSrUqIfUjRM19XDLpOyeX1qQVKhrdS_gN9xu8ZbwT2qqjGuh-XjMJ0EI7Fm0kN742zFPBDYnkPxvvsE2tDSac0arCKC62oQVJAqdLVe4DopMMf8xMM8fljByLozpw/s400/painted+screen.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Located just outside of the city center, the Museu de Arts Decoratives in the Palau Reial de Padralbes (seen below) is definitely worth the quick subway ride. The museum focuses on the decorative arts and interior design from Barcelona throughout history. The palace also contains a ceramic and a clothing museum, but I'll bring those to you at another date.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540314257690567314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT1EYrZJaNTdYPEpgJkkfwk2Dchiu49U8COrSal9_YCRCYG790yeT4n6q1hyHnn5JajWvKEqIAyqMLmKXK6x_qKF-zwFQv0k5_9xjGtrI6wdYofntIc2TUV_8ITiamoxj63HIvy3OluOk/s400/decorative+arts+wing.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 290px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Probably my favorite object in the museum was this dramatic decorative screen by Francesc d'Assis Gali. Gali was an artist and educator who practiced in an art school he founded in 1906 until his death in 1965 which produced such pupils as Juan Miro and Josep Artigas.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540314266236009922" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip9xjnw5bWwNFxJvsuV_1TwtgUoJTk3SAgjjTLwyelpi-iFcs8S-iPF5lIonSgzm1UPGUcfqCntYnx_q8UU6yu92sFy0YZ7_SuaMHhVEBgv2FH3I66aXc3Nax_w8VA8KP_RjhPZES0-Fo/s400/decorative+screen.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 371px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />The screen dates to 1929, a very important year as it turns out (especially for Gali) as it is the year of the Barcelona Universal Exhibition (think <a href="http://architectdesign.blogspot.com/2008/03/barcelona-pavilion.html">Barcelona Pavilion</a>) of which he was the Artistic Advisor.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_9yYDtt-mjM228C6zb6jk9MPoZJwqto80QXkLI1Ro5FPGGc_GAC65MEHJXq5-hViFp37TFZ5Yi6hEoPdWqVdBsWjG7y86qlO0s0h8_co7GK9Gke62uxH6N6Oa3fxQY3GEsDdwL_azwo/s1600/Gali.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540314278674412018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu_9yYDtt-mjM228C6zb6jk9MPoZJwqto80QXkLI1Ro5FPGGc_GAC65MEHJXq5-hViFp37TFZ5Yi6hEoPdWqVdBsWjG7y86qlO0s0h8_co7GK9Gke62uxH6N6Oa3fxQY3GEsDdwL_azwo/s400/Gali.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>The fair not only put Gali on the map internationally, but also Barcelona which has such a rich history of design. I'll be sharing with you some of my favorite items in this museum over the next few weeks -would love to hear what you think of them!

A decorative screen

Located just outside of the city center, the Museu de Arts Decoratives in the Palau Reial de Padralbes (seen below) is definitely worth the ...

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Main Post Office

<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540000889073333042" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7nZyi8BSHInJlvxydCeMUlIjnkeErcUUuyK6zhiN5r3VbIV7sWC5k1GGkyJhzjRXL5UNcdrJcYAfWOkAT5f64RZ4jji1egdWLh_AX4mdXsEMuX35gK0FUFPknvv1TTu6ys4pEuspW0M/s400/venus+rising.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" />One of my favorite things to see in Barcelona, which you won't find in many guidebooks, is the beaux arts styled main post office.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540002933454535474" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjU3mUNMikGhDXzXrPb4-dqMFtRW42SLZVhekYieV2Hq7JDDnjkC9S2qPRXV3x8cpHfKutDOXK4adm2a74fwUwxuRaNxs26x53eYk4YeULZRwQFHg3GEHLXQzDIuyqW7zB5rpQGr43uXUw/s400/tower+2.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Centrally located off the Barceloneta metro stop, just below the Born and the Gothic quarters and with views of Port Vell, plenty of people pass this building and assume it's a cathedral of sorts.<br /><div><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540002921411826802" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXnc7kFqkr3WjlWZ2LgfPmFVRpxaWNJ1DXpGDJurEndFz9Nv5R7QfJnsi0Nmxr2Otz2XiJ5PQvmQT9D5f9VGBnSZpeaXRBCK7U_zxcgTEsDs5chiDeE4tLJT4weN5VzQCVRbzv0VWPmiM/s400/exterior+shot.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Yes, you are reading this correctly, this grand building is the <strong>post office</strong>!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540000864339747122" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUV-Awcs9bsOMy2dcN0ZRBkfqHlNaqS_zkQ6aG8L15nZsBFaHhnbqebYSFBnzJiQFOUTP_m7aWN-ECqtcIAJWeayykv6Zmyuij1TPbvtUTinmg8NVx51DfoPaCH9GEI9W9sBRvugWIpF4/s400/up+at+tower.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Since you'll probably be walking by numerous times a day during your stay, take a peek inside with me.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540000873026086642" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirX1FREFQ2V0r3J_hDyQ-IaQiUkOmM4pFXGvfPVDub8ghwptWoRj0TOnLtgIAQtuxAUO_XeXm9mhlHWDpUyJp4Z9IlJme-AmjyAHMcZpNQcY8FFuG0M8-wGKTsRmPldxbR6-Yjq2osfSE/s400/window+detail.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 348px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />The quiet entry vestibule is efficient but begins to prepare you for the main room beyond with the beautiful details of stone columns, bronze lanterns and a dentil'd cornice (a common Beaux arts design layout).<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540000640293228258" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUCEFfGlSzm-rBebhbzKc9lqJYu-6wdrsJ24yHlgaTornuOcgFtYyr85MmkRzFaXTl01ESuJzpZ-2TGYGvkurPPz6WytVdn-Tf09xo4i0Yylt45T_bGsujn9hH5KwD2tW3m4S59KncEvw/s400/entry.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />I thought this stair, while beautiful, was perhaps a bit understated for such a grand building, but I suppose it's not meant to gain attention: guests not welcome in the offices upstairs!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540000859468722754" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD-XNC0mhGyO_UfXFRbsufl9tHLC6_YsIsW7R2P0ER6DdVH-1Whslvay9WdN9zFCNHPpbHuEjMR51w860dCPN12CLfkWZj03OMkytNwZltnxbaO5LvCcpN_NyjgCW9HlTT55ydez0OqK8/s400/staircase.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />The <em>piece de reisistance</em> is the main postal room with beautifully frescoed ceiling.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540000646929289682" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN0CL4nSCcbPQBhbo5tN3QUNMPx93UxAjSR8Qp_7gVDnDwCimcr6beQBYiTqO4oqMfIe75FoJBrnXc6XnNxDNhB8Huqa-Cq2aQzq7C4RK2W_YAQEp2-B5jQF2X3WtwUXs8AlXBZwC2GHI/s400/floor+space.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />Now THIS is the place to mail your postcards home!<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540000659910339906" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHmDYAN2T7FQR7PX5GMIgcnNwVDMDG2ocniF7v6qfWjxXdXaMgmApO0qa_zIgNLbqOVRKJ3UDfiCDFVMC5MPXMXQ4cntb5anBGvw76j2LoRlGh5b7d8mlj3rImTqkqskHSEAyyjBcG-nk/s400/lantern.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" />In case you still don't believe me, it is labeled plain as day, Correos.<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540001366927544034" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcJEyxUR7USHRE4eRr9trl7BGnxno1NmSLy1cwNhxgU2sJneJQLF0GhyxDie2Qe4YKWrVVdNiOcimY9cvf5ZI7hK5_96ZKjDcuSnWNKu0FeaULY5O28OaWvAjEeLSGjnca-5aUPvSrShA/s400/correos.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 300px; CURSOR: hand" /> The space is light filled thanks to the glass dome a few stories above.<br /><div><div><div><div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwWrjwaYU8XTvHivCpzoKpLt1xNrAv9zHJnT9IdshspijnCoBM7-0xM9OuAGlGADHH92oQ830EAmDFn_IHl-a82wVGPuAFQdEUaEtQPA812U6UYJXvupvACk_7eJTen0MRWMRl_6iNzfw/s1600/skylight.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540000851225915186" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwWrjwaYU8XTvHivCpzoKpLt1xNrAv9zHJnT9IdshspijnCoBM7-0xM9OuAGlGADHH92oQ830EAmDFn_IHl-a82wVGPuAFQdEUaEtQPA812U6UYJXvupvACk_7eJTen0MRWMRl_6iNzfw/s400/skylight.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 313px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>Just another close up of the beautiful columns and that ceiling.<br /><div><div><div><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHfmwYpY6xXXZA4ogR1KLgY2FkYXUBtFTA1owEe4VHwfEnp6oRa0XfiIZQx_Q6bks_BXS9dvY9fxq8lHF_Ob3Ao9DbzSVgnoRXuuxr7DSU5LtKpcDRdjd-WniyqksLIZ8u8V2cRHxuqos/s1600/ceiling+detail.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540000633126172322" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHfmwYpY6xXXZA4ogR1KLgY2FkYXUBtFTA1owEe4VHwfEnp6oRa0XfiIZQx_Q6bks_BXS9dvY9fxq8lHF_Ob3Ao9DbzSVgnoRXuuxr7DSU5LtKpcDRdjd-WniyqksLIZ8u8V2cRHxuqos/s400/ceiling+detail.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 400px; CURSOR: hand" /></a>Tucked into a corner was a bit of history. I would assume Spanish mail isn't still delivered using these bicycles (but as slow as it is, it just may be!).<br /><div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix9KoQ90BjXejlyPMY79QPzDDYC7ZbY8YlzgDO61yjhCxC6eEybGBlTCK0-DcA2V4LsquY39FEVONCYPtSso0SQux_tjM9_GSCXv0Pz-JRbsVA-o9REJNDFZpEgpiXcdD-tLZYqdPiQDU/s1600/bicylcle.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540000627257978402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix9KoQ90BjXejlyPMY79QPzDDYC7ZbY8YlzgDO61yjhCxC6eEybGBlTCK0-DcA2V4LsquY39FEVONCYPtSso0SQux_tjM9_GSCXv0Pz-JRbsVA-o9REJNDFZpEgpiXcdD-tLZYqdPiQDU/s400/bicylcle.jpg" style="TEXT-ALIGN: center; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 279px; CURSOR: hand" /></a> </div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

Main Post Office

One of my favorite things to see in Barcelona, which you won't find in many guidebooks, is the beaux arts styled main post office. Centr...

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