The Cathedral г catedral de la Santa Creuд Construction began in 1298. The cathedral faces onto the Plaça de la Seu in the center of the Barri Gòtic area of the old city and is surrounded by other remnants of Barcelona's past - notably some Roman remains and various medieval structures. The main facade is dominated by the massive main door and the central spire. Oddly sited, the spire is placed to the front of the building instead of the more usual position over the crossing of nave and transepts. To either side of the building are two simple towers which are only visible from the sides and rear of the cathedral. Access to the roof can be from the northern transept via a small lift. There are excellent views over the city as well as a close-up view of the central tower. The interior of the cathedral is suitably impressive with a fine nave and soothing cloister.
La Plaça Sant Jaume
Back in the Roman period this square was (and still is) where important government buildings were found. On one side there is the Palace of the Generalitat (the government of the Autonomous Community of Catalunya) and on the other stands the City Hall. This square has been witness to some of the most important events in recent Catalan history, such as the proclamation of the Catalan State in 1931 or the return of Josep Tarradelles from exile in 1977. On Sunday mornings, people come to dance the Sardana, the national dance of Catalonia