With one of the most anticipated holidays of the year rapidly approaching, we wanted to provide a breakdown of Christmas traditions here in Barcelona, as well as Catalunya at large. No different than the rest of the world, where Christmas is universally recognized as one of the year’s biggest holiday seasons, Catalunya has some distinctive traditions.

December 8^th, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, is recognized as the start of the season, when decorations are put up. The nativity scene is a common decoration, both in houses and in public areas. One part of nativity scenes unique to Catalunya is a small figure known as the Caganer. The Caganer is a small figure with its pants around the ankles, slightly bent over in the act of defecation. With many explanations for its presence in the nativity scene, it is most likely a tribute to Catalan humor. In recent years, famous political figures have been immortalized in their representation as Caganers, such as the newest addition, Barack Obama.

In the same vein, another prominent Catalan Christmas tradition is the Caga Tió, a log figure painted with a smiley face that poops out presents. During the weeks leading up to Christmas day, children feed the log sweets, much akin to the tradition of leaving cookies out for Santa Claus. The log grows fat throughout the season, as presents are stuffed inside of it. At the culmination on Christmas day, children hit the log which then yields the presents that were stored inside. These presents are generally the smaller, family presents, while the larger ones are brought by the Three Wise Men on January 6^th, the last day of the Christmas season.

Naturally, the next thought is likely to be, Where can I get these Christmas figures? One of the oldest outdoor markets in Spain is located right outside of the Barcelona Cathedral, known as the Fira de Santa Llucia, where all these figures are available for purchase.

Make sure to visit us at ComeToBarcelona to reserve your apartment early for the Christmas season!

Opened on April 4, 1847, the Gran Teatre del Liceu is one of the most storied buildings in Barcelona. Located in the middle of Las Ramblas, the theatre was funded by private donors, a sharp contrast to other opera houses in Europe which relied on funding from the monarchy. Reflective of this is the lack of a royal box in the theatre. Host to a diverse array of opera, orchestra and ballet performances throughout the years, this opera house has an even richer history.  

The first of two major fires that struck the opera house occurred in 1861, destroying the stage and hall. Repairs were finished one year later, only to again be needed when an anarchist attacked in 1893, again damaging the building. During the 1930s, there was a brief nationalization of the opera house during the economic crises. Finally, the second major fire occurred in 1994 that eventually led to its rebuilding with more modern equipment, yet still fashioned to stay in keeping with the original designs.

As one of the largest opera houses in Europe with 2,292 seats, the time in October when opera season begins is one of the most anticipated times of the year. Opera enthusiasts can look forward this year to performances of works by Verdi, Wagner and Tchaikovsky.

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While difficult to fathom, sometimes it is nice to get outside of Barcelona, even just for a little bit, and enjoy the serenity and natural beauty of Catalonia. In this day trip, we offer just that: a pleasant afternoon of hiking and a tour.

Located about 40 kilometers outside of Barcelona, San Miquel del Fai is an incredible area full of small lakes, waterfalls, caverns and trees, all surrounding a mountain that is perfect for hiking. In addition to the scenery, one can see examples of Catalonian medieval architecture in the buildings there.  

Visit us at ComeToBarcelona so that after a great trip, you can return to one of our Barcelona apartments and enjoy the night!

One of the most amazing things about Barcelona is the way that magnificent structures seemingly blend in to the city. A true testament to the fantastic city planning, sometimes it takes a helping hand to point out specific structures, despite how large they may be!

Santa María del Mar is a perfect example. Tucked back in La Ribera, this cathedral was built in the 14^th Century. Built in the Catalan Gothic style, this towering church is in juxtaposition with the narrow streets surrounding it. The exterior, large and dark, give way to an expansive and light interior. The wonderful ambience of the interior has made it a very popular locale for concerts.

Santa María del Mar was built in celebration of the Catalan conquest of Sardinia. Amazingly, at the time of its construction, its name was very appropriate, as the Spanish `mar´ means `ocean.´ When constructed, Barcelona´s coastline was more inland—the Cathedral was on the ocean! However, as time passed, the coast shifted outwards, and the only reminder of this time long ago is in the church´s name.

Prior to her burial in the Cathedral of Barcelona, the patron saint of the city, Saint Eulalia was buried here, in Santa María del Mar. Legend has it that as two men were moving her casket to its new resting place, one of the men took part of her hand as a relic. The casket became unbearably heavy and they could make no further progress. Then an angel appeared to them, admonishing the man for what he had done, and instructing him to return the relic. The man obeyed, and once again they were able to carry the casket to its new place. Where the angel is said to have appeared is forever memorialized, as that place is now known as Plaza del Angel. 

So visit us at ComeToBarcelona and rent an apartment today, so that you may be on your way to discovering Barcelona.

The National Museum of Catalan Art has the goal of educating the viewer on Catalan art from the Romanesque Period all the way to current times with special emphasis placed on the Catalan variations of Romanesque and Gothic. Currently, it is home to an exhibition of rare Iberian coins, some of which are from as long ago as the 2^nd Century BC!

Perhaps most striking about the Museum is the building itself. The Palau Nacional, built for the 1929 International Exhibition, has been the museum´s home since 1934. Located on top of the mountain Montjuic, many things are afforded to the viewer in addition to the incredible art housed inside. From the outside premises, one can see straight down la Avenida de la Reina Maria Cristina, which is home to many large expo buildings and ends in Plaza España, the Magic Fountain and draws an arrow straight to Mount Tibidabo in the distance. In addition, Barcelona´s famed Olympic Stadium is right nearby in Montjuic.

What makes this the place to see? It is a terrific way to achieve a heightened appreciation of a foreign culture by viewing their art. Also, Friday and Saturday nights you can see the Magic Fountain and its incredible display of lights and music. As typical of the museums in Barcelona, it is free on the first Sunday of each month. You can also use your Connect Club Discount Card for a discount on admission. With its close proximity to other great landmarks in Barcelona, this museum is definitely a must see! 

Make sure to visit us at ComeToBarcelona and reserve your apartment today!

Barcelona, as we have chronicled, still exhibits characteristics resultant from its time as a Roman colony. For evidence, one needs to look no further than the remains of the Roman walls still present. For today’s extraordinary excursion, we take you south down the coast to a town with an even heavier Roman history, Tarragona.

Formerly known as Tarraco, Tarragona was founded in 218 BC as a prominent Roman military base. It later became a Roman colony, and astonishingly enough it was even capital of the entire Roman Empire when the Emperor Augustus lived in the city for two years. It was a stop along the famed Via Augusta, which ran from Rome to present day Cadiz.

Today, much of Tarragona´s allure lies in its history. Following in the steps of Romans long ago is a breathtaking adventure, as you can still see the aqueducts and the remains of the amphitheatre, and begin to form a picture of what life in that distant time may have been like. For example, make sure to stop and check out the old Roman circus where they held chariot races. Located on the Mediterranean coast, another great appeal are the beaches, some of which have even received awards for their purity.

So for lovers of history and those who want to see more of the Spanish coast alike, this is a great destination, one we are sure you will enjoy to the fullest. Visit us at ComeToBarcelona and reserve a Barcelona apartment to start your journey!

One of the great things about the Barcelona, the Mediterranean city, is the multitude of fantastic locations nearby. Though you can never run out of fun things to do and see in Barcelona, sometimes it is nice to get out and see what a different locale has to offer.  In this continuance of our extraordinary excursion series, we offer a great combination for your traveling pleasure. This day trip to Montserrat, Torres Winery and Sitges is the perfect blend of sightseeing, refinement and relaxation.

The day commences with a trip to the Torres vineyards, where both your palate and brain will receive an education. Learn how this famous Spanish producer makes their wines, while discovering a new personal favorite through the many tastings.

Next, the trip heads on to Montserrat. As we have previously profiled, this area is rich in history and beauty. The monastery atop of Montserrat is one of the most interesting sites in all of Catalunya, reason enough for this great trip.

Finally, after what is sure to be a day full of excitement, the lovely beaches of Sitges offer the perfect respite. Enjoy the crystal blue waters and white sands as you soak in both the beach and the town as well.

So make sure to visit us at ComeToBarcelona and reserve an apartment today, so that tomorrow you can be on your way!

Prominently located in the Gothic Neighborhood, the Cathedral of Barcelona is one of the standout sights in the entire city. Generally referred to as `La Seu´, the cathedral receives its name from Saint Eulalia, the co-patron saint of Barcelona.

The history of the site occupied by the cathedral dates back to Roman times, when an ancient basilica resided there. In the 10^th century this basilica was destroyed at the hands of Moor invaders,  Construction of the cathedral began in earnest in 1298, and it was not until 1913 that it had finally come to completion. The cathedral is an example of Gothic architecture, a style characterized by pointed arches, tall spires and large windows allowing cascades of light.

As the cathedral was named after Saint Eulalia, the Christian martyr who died at age 13, it has special significance tied to her life. For example, in the cloister, one can always find 13 geese, one for each year of her life. As typical of a patron saint, her remains can be found in a crypt beneath the altar.  

With this as one of many great sights to see, we hope that you reserve your Barcelona apartment today!

The fountain´s first show took place on May 29, 1929 during the Great Universal Exhibition.  The designer was architect Carlos Buigas who set out to awe the visitors of the Exhibition.  With the creation of this amazing fountain, he accomplished his goal. 

Spend a day at Montjuic visiting El Pueblo Español, the Olympic Stadium, and Palau Nacional and finish off with this spectacular show!  Let us help you find an apartment near Montjuic so you can see all these amazing sites. 

Often forgotten in the excitement surrounding Halloween is the day afterwards, November 1^st. This is a very important day in Spanish culture, All Saints Day. On this day, people remember their loved ones who have passed away.

Originally a day to remember all the saints of the Catholic Church, especially the martyrs, the day has since expanded to include all the deceased. It has become one of the largest days of celebration in Spain, full of many traditions. Cemeteries are adorned with flowers in remembrance and masses are offered there as well. Large family meals are typical, and afterwards roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes are consumed. The chestnut vender on the street is definitely something to look out for!

Another key tradition is Spain´s longest running play, Don Juan Tenorio, written by José Zorilla. In the play, the protagonist don Juan is depicted in the struggle between salvation and damnation, with the pivotal scene taking place in a cemetery, making it very appropriate for this day.  

Check out our page at ComeToBarcelona and look at our great Barcelona apartments so you can enjoy the traditions of a different culture!