Barcelona for literature lovers
Each and every corner in the Catalan capital has a story. Many artists have walked the streets of Barcelona, and have portrayed them in paintings, in written expressions and in architecture designs.
By Fabiola Chirinos
11/02/2016
No wonder UNESCO appointed Barcelona as the City of Literature early this year. To celebrate such an honor we have prepared the following selection for lovers of good stories and books.
For eating and drinking
One of the most famous places is the bar El Quatre Gats, located in the El Gotic district. The place stands out more for its history than for its culinary offer. In other times, it was the meeting place for great artists of the time. Many of them would meet in El Quatre Gats, the most noticeable is Picasso, he used it for his first exhibitions when he was a teenager, and drew their first menu. The atmosphere among the tables inspired writers such as Ruben Darío who attended the bar joining other intellectuals. Though food is expensive, it is worthwhile visiting, have a drink and become part of the pleasant atmosphere of the bar.
On the other hand if you are looking for a place to relax while enjoying a tasty meal and reading, you should visit Laie. This bookstore is located on calle Pau Claris in Eixample. In addition to its extensive literary offer, it has a cafe where you can eat and drink and a terrace for meals and reading.
Buying books in Barcelona
There are numerous bookstores in Barcelona and La Central stands out among them. The bookstore offers a wide selection of books and facilities that stimulate reading. If you are searching for a specific book you will for sure find it in La Central. You should wander along the aisles if you want to discover a new story, and if you keep your eyes wide open, you will be astonished by the variety.
Lovers of literature who are also passionate for travelling cannot leave Altair out. This bookstore specializes in books on travels, maps, brochures and more. And since we love visiting other cities we could not leave this one aside. You should visit and explore the selection of publications it has to offer, it is located in Les Corts.
For reading - Barcelona libraries
The Biblioteca de Cataluña is a must for all those who admire architecture and history besides enjoying reading good material. It is located in El Raval, the perfect place to find literature regarding culture and traditions of Catalonia. It was founded in 1907 and opened to the public in 1914. Since then it has been devoted to spreading literature in other places and among visitors.
Visit Biblioteca Francesca Bonnemaison if you want a different experience. It was the first building exclusively intended for reading among women, thus opening a space for females to gather and create new ideas in a world that is still heavily dominated by men.
Literary seasons
There are specific times in which Barcelona’s literary quality is in the spotlight. Those who love outdoor events, romance and literature could visit the city during the month of April. On the 23rd the people of Catalonia celebrate the day of Sant Jordi, the patron Saint. The tradition is that men give a rose to their girlfriends and in return women give them a book. Therefore the city is full of flowers and books, and the atmosphere is filled with a unique aroma that characterizes the date.
Vendors with many reading proposal can be found everywhere. Prestigious authors can be seen within the crowd looking for a new story, giving interviews or taking part in some scheduled literary event. Children look forward to their new books and you find smiles everywhere expecting to receive the detail of the day.
Kosmópolis is another of the big events for literature lovers. It takes place every two years and brings together authors from all over the world. Book lovers gather in Barcelona during this festival to exchange recommendations, to meet their favourite authors, attend workshops, discussions and interviews or to have their books autographed. Check the schedule before attending.
BCNegra is an event reserved for fans of crime writing. It offers literary presentations, meetings with authors, lectures and more. It usually lasts a little over a week and every year surprises the visitors with novelties and guests of great prestige.