Not just another Gaudi building but probably the most complete example of his work in Barcelona. Nicknamed “La Pedrera” (The Quarry), Casa Mila was commissioned by the well-to-do Mila Family at the beginning of the last century. As well as being a tourist attraction it still serves its orginal function as an office and apartment block.
The undulating roof and the angular chimneys, which look like medieval knights.
The attic - in itself beautiful - is home to a permanent exhibition on Gaudis work, with models and slideshows showing how Gaudi drew heavily on nature for his inspiration.
Queues can get quite long, particularly in summer months, and seeing the relatively cosy apartments with a crowd of people can be quite tiresome.
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Yes, I know that the Ramblas figures high up on any guide to Barcelona, and I agree that the concept is great: a huge pedestrian street which cuts the old town in half and enables the city folk to enjoy a nice stroll on a hot summers evening. However the reality is, well, tourist hell quite frankly. Packed solid at any hour of any day the Ramblas requires an exercise in patience and restraint. Avoid the miserably inactive human statues (Or are they real perhaps?) and keep a sharp look out for thieves.
Not really a highlight, but getting from one end to the other with all your possessions intact and without having had an altercation with swarthy adolescent tour groups should be considered an achievement.
Thieves, crowds, human statues, con artists, tourist tat etc etc.