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Barcelona: Spanish city will take your breath away
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Well-placed lighting illuminate Barcelona's famed Batllo House, designed by the eccentric Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi. In 1904, building owner Josep Batllo i Casanovas commissioned Gaudi to refurbish an existing building. The home-turned-tourist attraction boasts one of the world's most impressive facades, and inside is full of curves, from the walls to banisters, staircases and ceiling arches. The tiled roof is associated with a scaled dragon's back.
When visiting the Catalonian capital of Barcelona, expect to hear the beautiful city’s name pronounced with a hint of a lisp; more like "Bar-the-lona." A friend once jokingly explained the reason: For if Spaniards there didn’t have the lisp, they’d be perfect. Barcelona is a breathtakingly beautiful cosmopolitan city, with much to offer beyond the spectacular architecture of Antoni Gaudi, beaches and fabulous restaurants. The locals we met were friendly and helpful, so proud of their city and willing to go out of their way to ensure a pleasant visit.
-- Sandra Jontz,
Stars and Stripes
