Plaça de Sant Jaume, Barcelona, Spain

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❖Plaça de Sant Jaume, Barcelona, Spain, 2009[open in full screen]

Previous Plaza de la Espana, Seville, Spain

First plaza ever designed in Barcelona is this one. it was planned as the Roman forum at the same time that first "castrum" around this spot, called Barcino was founded in the 3 century BC. Especially during the night, this panorama vas taken 5 minutes before midnight, this remarkable square turns into the quite compelling place. Since roman times it was home for important buildings.

Today it accommodates 14th century Palace of the Generalitat [parliament], 13th century city hall and several others. Square has been witness to some of the most important events in recent Catalan history, such as the proclamation of the Catalan state in 1931.

Unusually for the most of the public spaces in Barcelona it doesn't have any place to sit but it is not unusual to see several groups standing in a circle, just chatting or planing their next move.

On our way in or out of the old city we always stud here admiring physical and psychological harmony of this plaça. This is, without doubt, one of the most pleasant public squares I've visited.

Two small photos bellow right are from Plaça del Rei, another amazing square just steps away connected to this space.

MEANDER ⇢ Historic Squares

Next Plaça de la Catedral] Barcelona, Spain

❖..c l a s s i f i c a t i o n ... s y s t e m..❖
more about evaluation method		more about types of squares
sociability	8	ceremonial	x
uses & activities	10	religious	x
access & linkages	10	social	x
comfort	10	residential	x
image	10	court yard	x
tourist value	10	with park	x
total	58	street, shopping	x