The "1929. The Barcelona Pavilion" is one of the places where I always take my friends when they come to visit me to Barcelona. It was designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe as the German National Pavilion for the 1929 Barcelona International Exhibition. The day I made the photo was raining heavily, even then I found it great.

In 1938 during the Spanish Civil war, Francisco Franco laid siege to the city of Barcelona. On the 30 September 1938, one of Franco's bombs fell on the church killing 30 people most of whom were children from the School of Sant Philip Neri and some were refugee children from Madrid where the church had been turned into a make-shift orphanage. As people pulled survivors from the rubble, a second bomb hit the square, killing 12 more bringing the death toll to 42. It was the second worst bombing hit in Barcelona during the war. Evidence of the bombings can be seen in the pockmarked walls of the church.

All Espai Joliu-lovers rejoice! Very recently a second location called Orval has opened, and it’s only 10 minutes away from its big sister. Just above Ciutadella park, just like its predecessor does. It has plenty of natural light that comes in through the large windows. Another added benefit with the new location is that it consists of two floors instead of just one as in Espai Joliu. Both cafes have their unique charm: Espai Joliu has that rugged, Berlin-inspired atmosphere, and Orval an added modern touch. The concept of plants and coffee remains consistent here, with a similar drink menu (with many options, and great specialty coffee) and beautiful plants for sale. You will also find an array of magazines and guidebooks. The staff deserves an added mention, such a friendly bunch!

Sculpture from Eduardo Chillida

Once a month I go to Jose's Hairdresser salon to cut my hair. Is an small place, simple and nice placed very near from my home, Jose cuts my hair exactly as I like it to do and the treatment is excellent: he is kind, but he doesn't speak too much, something rare in the field of hairdressers. With no doubt is one of my indispensable places of Barcelona.