Way back before we had even left for Barcelona, we had pre-booked tickets for a Flamenco Opera. On our fourth day there, we danced over to the Palau de la Musica Catalana to pick them up for that night. We knew it would be teeming with tourists and locals later on so we got most of our snaps in the morning.
The main entrance is covered entirely by glass, making for a very modern appearance. But just round the corner, the other side still flaunts an authentic, majestic quality.
The grandeur continues inside with beautifully stained glass archways, extravagant lamp shades and embellished ceilings overhead.
A short walk from the theater is Barcelona's Arc de Trimof.
We wandered through the arch and down the boulevard that follows, and discovered the city's favourite green retreat - Parc de la Ciutadella. Set apart from Barcelona's hustle and bustle, this park is by far the city's most popular destination for a peaceful hide away.
Attracting all from sunbathers, cyclists, rowers and wildlife, locals and tourists alike all roll in to soak up the splendor - especially on a sunny day!
I should mention that cycling is definitely the easiest and quickest mode of transport in Barcelona. Much more simple to park, and better to zip through narrow side streets - but a good knowledge of the area would be handy!
We sauntered and strolled all through the park, and eventually left to explore Sant Pere, the old province of Barcelona.
The architecture in the old district is relatively simple in style, however, the interior of Sant Pere's church is just gorgeously gothic.
This brings us up to wine o'clock. A few civilized drinks before the opera is just custom, right?
We got a bit carried away with the tapas here. Convinced that one plate of Spanish sausages to share would not suffice, we ordered two, and alas, we regretted this decision. Our eyes were definitely bigger than our bellies!
The rest however, we devoured; an exquisite selection of cheeses, ham and potato croquettes, tomato and basil brushcetta, marinated chicken strips and grilled foie!.....For those of you who don't know what grilled foie is, I dare you to try it.
Absolutely full to the brim, and seriously testing the seams of our dresses, we made our way back to Palau de la Musica Catalana.
The conductor was stood outside to greet us on arrival. How very welcoming!
Translated, Palau de la Musica Catalana means the Palace of Catalan Music. I'd say 'Palace' is just about accurate. Just as magnificent as the exterior, the interior decor too, would certainly not fall short of royal estimation.
I'm starting the hatch a few ideas of how I'd like my future living room to be arranged.
As always, no filming or photography was permitted during the show, so one quick selfie before the curtain went up. The musical and physical talent was incredible. The sheer speed these flamenco dancers twist and turn and tangle is almost an illusion!
We resolved to take up flamenco dancing as our new hobby once we returned to Edinburgh. We're still waiting for the right time to start...!
