Barcelona has some remarkable historical spaces that are little know but well worth a visit, such as the castle of Montjuïc and the Real Monasterio de Santa Maria de Pedralbes.
Up on the mountain of Montjuïc stands the castle of the same name, the parade ground of which has become a unique viewing platform overlooking the city, the port, the Mediterranean Sea and the surrounding area. The walls of this historical 18th-century fortress have witnessed harsh episodes of repression, including the bombardment of Barcelona, a dark period augmented by the execution of the then-president of the autonomous government of Catalonia, Lluís Companys, in 1940.
Today, the city has regained control over this space and placed it at the disposal of citizens with an interesting cultural programme including temporary exhibitions, art installations, children’s festivals, theatre shows, circuses and concerts. In the Interpretation Centre, which occupies four rooms of the castle, one can discover the history of the mountain and the fortress.
A haven of calm
The Real Monasterio de Santa Maria de Pedralbes is a space of silence, removed from the hustle and bustle of the centre of Barcelona, established in 1326 by Queen Elisenda de Montcada. The cloistering of Poor Clare nuns has led to the conservation of some extraordinary heritage over the centuries, and elements such as the imposing Gothic cloister, the church and the original 14th-century stained-glass windows have been preserved from the early days of the monastery, as well as the impressive chapter house, the Italianizing Gothic-style chapel of Saint Michael, the infirmary and the monumental bifrontal tomb of Queen Elisenda. It contains an important collection of artworks, objects and furniture items that bear witness to the life, devotions and tastes of the nuns. Activities and guided tours are organised throughout the year.