Barcelona Two

I really wanted to see more of the famed  Gaudi “Church” so I returned early this morning. To get inside at a convenient time,  I would need to book. Hmm...going to have to use Tony’s iPhone. After some early morning snaps, and a brisk walk back to the apt, we booked for 5pm this afternoon.
Hailing a taxi on the streets, he delivered  us to Park Güell, another Gaudi project. Nope, need a pre-book for that one also. We wandered around the park that is open to all, peaking at some structures above the tree tops, and decided that our fix of the great man would be at the cathedral.
A taxi to the port for a pleasant lunch and a ridiculously large juice for Tony. There is a grand tribute to Christopher Columbus at the port. With the passing of time, he is being surrounded by tourism and modern structures.
Tony’s choice was to visit the Maritime Museum. Its main feature was a replica of a 15 th century war galleon. What a monster. Manned by 500 men including 256 slaves who worked the oars, it was a wonderful example of craftsmanship...and the deplorable conditions of those who moved it across the seas. Rarely moving from their position for ANY reason, no wonder their life span once assigned to a galleon was less than 2 years.
After a brief return to the apartment, we again walked to the Sagrada Famillia. Tight security saw Tony hand his pocket knife to a guard who bagged it and gave us a number to retrieve it later. With an efficient commentary from the audio guide, we first wandered the exterior and then entered the interior.  Words are not enough. THE most extraordinary structure ever. A building of lumps and bumps, as Tony mildly put it. An incredible work of imagination and deliberate thought. The grandest of scale. I loved Gaudi’s intention of presenting the story of Jesus and Christianity on the exterior, but the inside, although including some Christian symbols, was designed to make ALL feel at ease and to be a place of personal contemplation. Have a close look at the photos. The details are complex. So glad that we have seen this marvel, due to be completed in 2026, 100  years after the death of its designer, who is deservedly, buried in its crypt.
Drinks amongst the locals and tourists at a pedestrian street nearby, and back to a simple meal.

And ...Go Hills! I am sure the townsfolk are all talking about the Grand Final. After battling for decades, this turn around is a real buzz...win or lose. 🏆👍