La Boquería Market

LA BOQUERÍA

The Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, often simply referred to as La Boqueria, is a large public market in the Ciutat Vella district of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain and one of the city's foremost tourist landmarks, with an entrance from La Rambla, not far from the Liceu, Barcelona's opera house. The market has a very diverse selection of goods.
History
The first mention of the Boqueria market of Barcelona dates to 1217 when tables were installed near the old door of the city to sell meat. From December 1470, a market selling pigs occurred at this site. At this time, the Market had the name Mercat Bornet or was (until 1794) simply known as Mercat de la Palla (Straw Market). At the beginning, the market was not enclosed and did not have an official statute, it was regarded as a simple extension of the market of Plaça Nova which then extended to the Plaça del Pi.
Later, the authorities decided to construct a separate market on La Rambla, housing mainly fishmongers and butchers. It is not until 1826 that the market is legally recognized and a convention held in 1835 decides construction of an official place. Construction began March 19, 1840 under the direction of architect Mas Vilà. The market officially opened the same year, but the plans for the building were modified many times. The official inauguration of the structure was finally made in 1853. In 1911, the new fish market was opened and, in 1914, the metal roof that still exists today was constructed.

La Boqueria is the most famous market in Barcelona. For many different reasons people has calificated la Boquería as one of the best markets in the world.

Of course there are other important markets on Barcelona. The oldest one, nearby the Cathedral is Santa Caterina Market. However, local people and visitants agree on the fact that no one is as special as La Boqueria.

Festival of Sant Joan in Barcelona

Festival of Sant Joan in Barcelona

The Night of Sant Joan (also known as the night of fire and the night of witches) is a popular celebration that takes place on the 23rd June, just after the longest day of the year and the Summer solstice. The city of Barcelona is literally alight on the "Nit de Sant Joan" when the streets are alive with parties, bonfires and outdoor celebrations known as "Revetlles" or "Verbenas"

As well as bonfires, fireworks and music, people also eat traditional cakes, "Cocas" as well as other sweet foods at home and around bonfires in order to ward off bad luck. Much of the symbolism that surrounds the festivities of Sant Joan, including the noise and fires themselves, are intended to fend off bad spirits.

It may be one of the shortest nights of the year, but during the hours of darkness from sunset on the 23rd June through to Sant Joan's day on the 24th June, the Barcelona skies are lit up with colour and fire. Each barrio has its own organised parties as well as many other rogue celebrations taking place in the streets.

The "Coca" cake itself is similiar to a sweet bread topped with pine nuts and filled with cinnamon, cherries and glazed fruits.

Another feature of the Sant Joan festivities is the brightly coloured decorations and bunting which you will see hanging around the city. This includes your local stores and supermarkets, where they will most probably remain for a few weeks yet to come.

With crackers, bangers and fireworks being so liberally launched in public places, safety is obviously of key concern at this time of the year. For those of us who are used to public displays take place at controlled distances, this wild, almost pyromaniacal, event is one is both disconcerting and exciting.

The Barcelona metro will open all night on the night of the 23rd. Street bonfires take place at various locations around the city.

Buggying bcn

Visiting Barcelona - SPAIN with Kids? Buggying bcn (www.buggyingbcn.com) is the new buggy rental service in Barcelona aimed at tourist visiting our amazing citty with kids up to 4 years. Do you need a fold up buggy for your child? Do you need any other kidfriendly item? Do you need some information about Barcelona? Do you wish us to organise some activities for your stay? Just tell us what you need and we will try to help you!