The Gothic Quarter is where it all started for Barcelona. The land was settled as far back as Neolithic times, but it was the Romans who gave “Barcino” (as it was known then) city status, building a forum, city walls, an aqueduct and a temple to Caesar Augustus. The forum is buried underneath the site of Plaça Sant Jaume, while remnants of the latter three are still visible today. After the Roman Empire fell, Barcelona weathered the dark ages to prosper in the medieval ones, developing into one of the most important economic and political centres of the Western Mediterranean. It was during these affluent times (13th to 15th century) that the Gothic Quarter we know today took shape, a district full of palaces, plazas. This part of the district is a fun to wander through, with its labyrinthine streets, hidden squares, cute cafes, romantic antique shops. Plaça Felip Neri is very picturesque and well hidden amongst the Gothic Quarter’s meandering streets (but I am all about hidden gems, and I actually found it pretty easy😛) @evanescenceofficial filmed My Immortal video at this very location, and I may have recorded some stories ages ago, when I visited the place, but here are some snaps I haven't published.🖤