La Carboneria (the coal-house) was built in 1864 and was used as a squat from 2008 to 2014 until the occupants were evicted by the police and the building was earmarked for destruction. However, the city council intervened and the building was preserved as a site of historic and artistic interest. The large mural on the exterior wall means it’s now one of the best places to see street art in Barcelona.

2. El Raval

Once one of Barcelona’s most notorious districts, El Raval has been rejuvenated in recent years thanks, in part, to its central location near Las Ramblas. Nowadays it’s one of the most ethnically diverse neighborhoods in Barcelona and the region’s cuisine and nightlife have benefited from this influx of influences. To get a sense of El Raval’s difficult past, visit the ‘Baby Drop-Off’ at Carrer de les Ramelleres, a wooden hole in the wall where destitute mothers used to leave their children to the care of the Church.

3. Olympic Stadium

Built in 1929, the original Olympic Stadium was intended to host the 1936 Olympics, a privilege that was ultimately awarded to Berlin. Barcelona finally got its chance to host the games in 1992 and the lighting of the torch by archer Antonio Rebollo remains one of the most iconic moments in sports history. The Olympics were instrumental in revitalizing Barcelona, both economically and architecturally, so the place is vital to understanding modern-day Barcelona and is well worth a visit, whether you’re a sports fan or not. Moreover, if you can catch a concert at the Olympic Stadium, that’ll surely be a night to remember!

4. Drive an F1 Car on the Spanish Grand Prix Circuit

If you’ve ever fancied yourself as a bit tasty behind the wheel then now’s the time to prove it. The Spanish Grand Prix has been held in Barcelona since 1992 and motorheads have the chance to prove their mettle by taking to the same circuit. A range of F1 cars are available but the 2011 Williams is the most current F1 car available to drive anywhere in the world. You’ll need a driving license (obviously) and *very* deep pockets, but cheaper alternatives in Ferraris are available too.

5. Carmel Bunkers

Because Barcelona is backed by mountains there are many spots that offer awe-inspiring vistas over the city but, if you’re looking for a place that’s secluded and inexpensive, the Carmel Bunkers should be at the top of your list. Built as anti-aircraft fortifications during the Spanish Civil War, the bunkers then fell into disrepair, before being salvaged by city officials keen to preserve the history and unique city-views this spot holds.

6. Barceloneta

Lively, independent, and full of enticing restaurants and bars, Barceloneta is one of the prime locations to experience local life in the city. You can take a visit to the zoo, hit the beach, or ride a cable car for some awesome views over the city. The streets really come alive during the Festival de Saint Joan—held on the Summer Solstice each year—when locals party and let off fireworks late into the night. If you want to get a taste of the festival, take a listen to ‘Barceloneta Heat’ by musician Greg Tank (below), a track inspired by the celebrations.

7. Icebarcelona

After spending the day in the Spanish sunshine, what could be better than a nice cooling drink? At Icebarcelona you can walk from the beachfront into freezing temperatures for a cocktail served in an ice glass. Enjoy the ice sculptures and chat with locals and tourists alike, before heading back out into the warm evening air.

8. Mount Tibidabo

Tibidabo might not be Barcelona’s most famous mountain but it’s still well worth a visit, especially if you have kids with you. At the summit is the spectacular Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor, a masterpiece of modern ecclesiastical architecture. Nearby is also Tibidabo Amusement Park, an old-fashioned theme park with many rides that offer panoramic views over the city and to the Balearic Sea beyond.

9. Camp Nou

Ok, this one might not be that surprising but I had to include it nonetheless. As a lifelong football (soccer) fan, I had to make a visit to Camp Nou, the largest football stadium in Europe and one of its most historic. Over the years this arena has been the home to the greatest footballers to have ever played the game, and even if you’re not a football fan, there is something about being nestled within 100,000 of the most passionate fans in world football that will send electricity right through your body. Win, lose or draw, it’s guaranteed to be an experience you will never forget.

Other Barcelona articles you should read next:

1. 6 Simply Wonderful Day Trips From Barcelona
2. 9 Cultured Spots In Barcelona Art Lovers Simply Can’t Miss

The post 9 Unique Must-Do Things In Barcelona That Many People Miss appeared first on Modern Trekker.

The options for art lovers are almost endless in Barcelona. The Museu Picasso is a traditional favorite with visitors, but for me at least, it’s Joan Miro who best epitomizes the vibrancy, color and quirkiness of Barcelona. Some of Miro’s sculptures can be found dotted around his home city, but for the most immersive experience, visit the Fundacio gallery on Montjuic. If you’re bitten by the Miro bug you can take time to pay your respects afterward, as Miro’s body is interred in nearby Montjuic cemetery.

2. Palau de la Musica

This concert hall is not just one of Barcelona’s best locations to indulge in a symphony or some jazz music, it’s also a masterpiece of Art Nouveau architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in its own right. The famous skylight could be straight out of a Renaissance Cathedral, but the rest of the building is another example of Barcelona’s love affair with “modernisme”. Guided tours can be arranged from as little as 20 Euros, though it’s more if you want to take in a performance too.

3. MNAC

The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya is an art gallery housed within the almost preposterously grandiose Palau Nacional, on Montjuic Hill. One of the largest museums in Spain, MNAC exhibits everything from early church paintings to modernist and surrealist works. What better way to understand a place and its people than through the works they leave behind?

4. Park Güell

Most major world cities have one or more architects or planners who have left an indelible mark on the landscape. In the case of Barcelona, that person is undeniably Antoni Gaudi. Here, Gaudi draws on his life-long fascination with the natural world to create a miniature wonderland of colorful mosaics and contoured lines; a small paradise in the middle of a modern city.

5. Block of Discord

Colorful, exuberant and conflicting—no other spot best encapsulates the explosion in modernist architecture that took place in Barcelona at the end of the 19^th Century than the “Block of Discord”. Another of Gaudi’s masterpieces, the “Casa Batllo”, is perhaps the best-known of the houses in this area, but other architects have also left their mark. “Casa Amatller” and “Casa Lleo-Morera” are no less distinctive than Gaudi’s masterpieces For the best experience take a tour inside one—or all—of the houses, where the styles are even more over-the-top than they appear from outside.

And here’s a very imaginative (and weird!) video in the style of Gaudi showcasing the otherworldliness of the Block of Discord:

6. Deep Dive Gaudi

No one comes away from the first visit to Barcelona without some exposure to its most famous architect, Antoni Gaudi. However, those looking to gain a deeper insight into Gaudi’s work should visit the Palau Guell in El Raval, his first major building in the city, and Bellesguard Tower in Sarria-Sant Gervasi. These two monuments showcase Gaudi’s style but are removed enough from the throngs of crowds that you’ll have time enough to savor the details and drink in the atmosphere.

7. Cathedral

The Gothic Cathedral—built largely in the 14^th Century—is in the slightly unusual position of being overshadowed by a much more recent neighbor (of which more later). However, for many centuries before the modernist explosion in Barcelona, the Gothic Cathedral was the heart of public life and a spectacle that would have been unrivaled anywhere in the region. It’s also the likely origin of one of Catalunya’s most unusual traditions—the dancing egg—which takes place throughout Catalunya during Corpus Christi.

8. Sagrada Familia

Begun in 1882 and still under construction, La Sagrada Familia is regarded by many as one of Gaudi’s masterpieces and is certainly Barcelona’s most emblematic site. It’s an explosion of colors and ideas set in stone, for some this means that it lacks some of the internal harmony compared to Gaudi’s masterpieces dotted elsewhere around the city, but for others, it’s a testament to the breadth of his vision. Yes it’s touristy and yes it’s crowded, but it’s also a structure unlike any you will find anywhere else in the world, making it a must-see. Just make sure you order your tickets online in advance or prepare for long queues to get in.

The Sagrada Familia is currently unfinished (even though construction started in 1882), though here is a video showcasing how it will look once it is finally finished:

9. Tablao Cordobes

Flamenco is an art form that is synonymous with the southern region of Spain, meaning an authentic experience of the dance is a near impossibility in the north. Luckily for us, the one exception is Barcelona. The Tablao Cordobes has been in operation since 1970 and has hosted some of the masters of the form since then. It is now one of the only two authentic tablao in Barcelona. Enjoy tapas or a larger meal as you watch the dancing for the complete experience.

Other Barcelona articles you should read next:

1. 9 Unique Must-Do Things In Barcelona That Many People Miss
2. 6 Simply Wonderful Day Trips From Barcelona

The post 9 Cultured Spots In Barcelona Art Lovers Simply Can’t Miss appeared first on Modern Trekker.

1. Spectacular Scenery – Pyrenees Mountains

If you fancy a break from city life then why not hire a car and head north to explore the Pyrenees? The towns of Ripoll or Olot are excellent bases for rock-climbing and bouldering. Alternatively, head to Grandvalira for the best skiing in the region. Keep pressing north-west and you’ll reach Andorra, Europe’s fifth smallest country. The capital, Andorra La Vella, is a beautiful city nestled in a picturesque valley where French and Spanish influences mix. It can take a full day to do a round-trip from Barcelona and so it is well worth an overnight stay if time and budget permits. The Pyrenees has so much to offer depending on where you decide to explore. See the video below to get an idea of everything the Pyrenees has to offer!

2. Beaches – Tossa de Mar

Sitting atop Mount Guardi, a craggy outcrop towering above the Balearic Sea, is Tossa de Mar, the only surviving fortified medieval town anywhere on the Catalan coastline. A short climb to the top of the mountain provides an opportunity to drink in gorgeous views of the coastline whilst savoring the local seafood in one of the restaurants. Beyond that, the wider town boasts a lively (if touristy) shopping district and a string of pleasant beaches. Nearby Lloret de Mar is another popular destination, but we found it to be more crowded and less characterful than Tossa.

3. Medieval History – Girona

A forty-minute train ride from Barcelona, Girona is overflowing with history and is one of the best spots in Catalunya to gain an understanding of life in medieval Spain. Walk the city walls for a real sense of how a medieval city operated, then dive down onto the streets to sample local food in charming surroundings. The highlight for many is the magnificent Cathedral, a former Moorish mosque which has stood on this spot for over 1200 years. It will be familiar to Game of Thrones fans as the place where Cersei Lannister started her walk of shame, among other scenes.

4. Roman Ruins – Tarragona

A relatively short train ride from Barcelona, Tarragona was founded in the 5^th Century BC and is steeped in Roman history. The amphitheater is one of the best preserved in Europe and its beauty is only accentuated by the coastal backdrop. The Roman aqueduct and Circ Roma (chariot-racing track) are other major draws for history buffs, as is the Romanesque Cathedral. After you’ve taken in the sights, Tarragona has a number of first-class seafood restaurants to help you round off your day in style.

5. Religious Life – Montserrat Monastery

Historically Catalunya’s most important religious retreat, the abbey at Montserrat is still home to around 70 monks. During the Spanish Civil War, it was used as a refuge for artists and intellectuals opposed to Franco’s regime. As well as its interesting history, the Monastery is located in some of the most stunning scenery in Catalunya, making it a must for any visitor looking to explore the wider region beyond Barcelona.

To see a full view of Montserrat Monastery, see the video below.

6. Local Culture – The Castellers of Catalunya

Spain is famous across the world for its public festivals, and one of the most iconic is undoubtedly the human towers constructed by Catalunya’s “Castellers”. These towers are comprised of pinya—generally stocky and strong individuals who act as the base of the tower and a safety net to people who may fall—and the upper levels of more lightly-built people, often children, who make the daring ascent to the top. UNESCO recognised the tradition of making Castells as one of the “Masterpieces of Oral and Intangible Heritage” in 2010. The Castellers’ schedule for Barcelona and beyond can be found on their website here.

We hope you enjoyed our 6 day trips from Barcelona! Want to learn more? Or know of anymore? Feel free to comment below.

Other Barcelona articles you should read next:

1. 9 Unique Must-Do Things In Barcelona That Many People Miss
2. 9 Cultured Spots In Barcelona Art Lovers Simply Can’t Miss

The post 6 Simply Wonderful Day Trips From Barcelona appeared first on Modern Trekker.

Well, you might if it’s jamón ibérico. Frequently called “the best ham in the world,” here’s what makes this unusual Spanish delicacy so special—and expensive.

Ibérico: One-of-a-Kind Flavor

Served in paper thin pieces, this premium ham has an elegant sweet and nutty flavor, with an earthy undertone. The fat is rich and delicate; it will begin melting at temperatures as low as seventy-five degrees when properly sliced. And because the best cuts are so well marbled, it creates a sense the ham is literally melting in your mouth.

The result? Heaven on a plate.

The Process: Creating the World’s Best Ham

Porqueros act as herders, leading a sounder of Ibérico swine to and from acorn-rich locations on a dehesa. Many of these dehesas are centuries old, having been originally created as oak-studded pastoral grounds by the Spanish monarchy.

For roughly two years, the pigs graze on the natural bounty provided by these dehesas. But the secret is nuts. As in, a literal bounty of acorns dropped from oak trees spread throughout the land. From October to March the pigs feast on these tiny morsels, packing on intra-muscular fat and flavor.

Once they fully mature (a weight of around three-hundred and sixty pounds), the pigs are sacrificed—“slaughter” being a taboo word in the world of jamón. They are then carved into assorted parts, with the fatty legs being skinned, salted, and dried before being sent to cure for a year or more.

The Real Secret: Ibérico Pigs

It’s believed that Iberian pigs landed on the Peninsula thanks to an ancient sea-faring race known as the Phoenicians. They’re thought to have brought domesticated pigs with them on their wide-ranging explorations. And the eventual interbreeding with native boars resulted in the genetic combination we know today.

Unlike the pink, curly-tailed farm swine of American storybooks, Ibérico pigs are dark. In fact, they’re near-black, right down to their hooves. This unusual hoof coloring helps distinguish between Ibérico and Serrano at a glance. Plus, it generated another nickname for this culinary delight: pata negra.

But what’s makes them kings among swine? Well, a few things.

As mentioned above, their pastoral diet stems almost entirely from acorns provided by three different local oak trees. This rich diet, combined with a genetic disposition for fat accumulations, creates plenty of rich marbling. And it’s this distinct marbling that creates the sweet, sinful, nutty, and decadent flavor people know and love.

Jamón Ratings: Diet and Ancestry Make a Difference

Each ham comes with a color-coded label certifying the pig’s ancestry and diet. A black label represents the top tier, with a 100% pure-blood ancestry and almost exclusive acorn-fed diet. Red, green, and white labels indicate a decreasing percentage of Iberian ancestry and dietary additions like grain.

To be labeled true “Ibérico,” the pig must hail from the region and be of at least 50% Ibérico ancestry. However, only 5% of the ham produced in Spain can claim to be the best of the best: both pure-bred and acorn-fed.

Slice of Life: How to Serve Jamón Ibérico

Another interesting characteristic of jamón ibérico is how it’s served. The leg is secured inside a unique holder, designed specifically for the purpose. It anchors the ham near the hoof and provides a resting place for the hock itself.

Once the layer of fat is removed from the top and sides, the meat sits exposed and ready to slice. A long, thin blade is used to cut near-transparent pieces, and the cut itself is difficult. Professionals train for years to be able to cut a slice with the perfect thickness. In fact, the World Record holder hails from Spain. Noe Bonillo Ramos sliced nearly one-hundred fifty-five kilograms of ham over the course of seventy-two hours, with a variance in thickness of less than a single millimeter.

Enjoy: Where to Find the World’s Best Ham

Many restaurants serve jamón alone, although it’s not uncommon to see it alongside traditional pan con tomate (toasted Spanish tomato bread). Usually, the easiest way to enjoy it is by finding an authentic Spanish restaurant, like Portland’s Ataula. They do a brisk business, and the volume they serve allows them to purchase the best quality at a negotiated rate.

You can also source it from high-end delicatessens around the country but be sure and inquire about the quality.

And finally, you can always take a trip to Spain and learn more about this interesting delicacy first-hand. Many places in Barcelona offer training courses to teach you to taste, identify, and slice jamón ibérico like a pro.

Savor it like the kings of old and raise a glass to the beautiful sacrifice on your plate.

Suggested reading: 3 Ways Other Countries Do Fries Better

The post If You’re In Spain, Then You Need To Eat This appeared first on Modern Trekker.