Barcelona international resident Jamie Stephens introduces his five favourite squares in Barcelona:
Plaça d´Osca
Away from the hustle and bustle of the centre you will not be harassed by any street-sellers in this square. It used to be the site of the Sants neighbourhood market and has remained popular with the locals since so it’s worth booking a table, especially at weekends. ‘La Mestressa’ is a great place to grab some lunch amongst a diverse variety of bars and restaurants, if you enjoy craft beer ‘Homosibaris’ is the place for you.
Plaça del Sol
Set in the heart of Gràcia, this bohemian square is a popular hangout for musicians and artists. It was built in 1840 before Gracia had been absorbed into Barcelona. Though it’s busy, it has a relaxed feel and is a great place to spend an afternoon or evening on one of its terraces. It has a lively atmosphere, especially during the fiesta de Gràcia, which takes place in the third week of August. There are plenty of places to get snacks but check out ‘Envalisa’ (Plaça del Sol 13) if you fancy a sit-down meal.
Plaça Prim
You can easily forget you´re in a city when relaxing in Plaça Prim, which feels like part of a small seaside town. It used to be a meeting place for factory workers and fisherman in the late nineteenth century and is characterized by its small white houses and orange trees. ‘Els Pescadors’ is a fantastic fish restaurant that’s well worth a visit.
Plaça de la Concordia.
Originally part of the neighbouring town Sarria, this tranquil square situated in Les Corts, was absorbed into Barcelona in 1897. I’ts very popular with the locals and is a great place to eat outside, Fragments Cafe is especially good. The plaça frequently hosts events, concerts and markets and has kept its traditional shops which are overlooked by the beautiful Church del Renei (1850).
Plaça Sant Felip Neri
Despite being one of Barcelona’s most picturesque, romantic squares it’s also one of the most tragic asit was hit by a bomb during the Spanish Civil War and several children who were running for cover were killed. This beautiful square, which is dominated by its baroque church and fountain in the middle, also features in Woody Allen’s Vicky Cristina Barcelona.
