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Art-lovers will always find great works of art to admire if they book a villa in Spain, almost anywhere in the country – from famous and historic galleries displaying art from throughout history like the Prado in Madrid, to museums dedicated to one iconic and beloved artist like the one for Salvador Dalí in his home-town of Figueres, to churches filled with painted and sculpted masterpieces, to the astounding architectural gems dotting the streets in the likes of Barcelona. Of course, there are also temporary exhibitions, special events, and other art events that make particular times and destinations especially appealing for the art fan considering a vacation in Spain.

This year, for example, is a great time for those who love the work of Joan Miró to book a holiday rental in Catalonia and visit Barcelona as the fifty-year anniversary of the Joan Miró Foundation sees this already fascinating gallery play host to a whole year of special events celebrating this great artist...

Those who love architecture will not need to be told that a vacation rental in Barcelona and time spent exploring all that the city has to offer is a must at some point in your life, a major item to tick off the bucket list. And, of course, traces of Gaudi can famously be found all over the city. However, his are not the only architectural gems to be discovered while on holiday in Catalonia. There are many others, some dating back hundreds and hundreds of years and some much more recent additions. However, if you have an interest in architecture and you plan on coming to see Barcelona, then one of the key attractions to make sure you set aside some time for is Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe and Lilly Reich’s Barcelona Pavilion.

Barcelona has a rich and delicious history when it comes to chocolate as it was one of the key points that cacao passed through when it was first brought from Mexico to Europe in the 16th century. Chocolate continues to play an important role in the culinary life and heritage of the city, meaning that those who love chocolate should definitely consider booking a vacation rental in Barcelona! From a chocolate museum with elaborate sculptures made from the sweet treat to the exquisite chocolate shops located along Barcelona’s, "Chocolate Street,” Carrer Petritxol, there are some key attractions in town for those who are serious chocolate-lovers.

Located in the city’s Gothic Quarter, Carrer Petritxol, with its shops and the mural of tiles and commemorative plates dedicated to famous Catalan creatives and figures throughout history and celebrating the history of chocolate in the city, is a beacon for fans of the sweet stuff who are looking to satisfy some cravings and to learn more about their favourite treat while staying in one of our lovely holiday rentals in Barcelona.

Those looking to plan a vacation in Catalonia should keep in mind that this part of Spain is an autonomous region that very much has its own distinct identity and culture. This applies not only to food, art, and more but also to language. The Catalan language is quite different from the Spanish spoken elsewhere in Spain and those who book a villa in Catalonia might do well to learn a few key phrases in the language in order to better communicate and show respect to the regional identity and culture. Using some common Catalan greetings and phrases is a great way to gain a good response and ingratiate yourself with locals so, take note of the below as you plan your holiday in Catalonia...

The city of Barcelona is a vibrant cultural hub upon which some of the greatest artists in the world have left an indelible mark. The architectural gems of Gaudí are prominently visible as one makes their way through the city but the artworks of Miró can also be spotted all over the place and even welcoming those arriving into the airport with one of his massive mosaics. In fact, those who love the works of Miró are really in for a treat if they book a vacation rental in Barcelona as there is a whole museum dedicated to his work. So, come and follow the artist all through the city and right to his museum as you soak up the culture and art of this incredible destination…

Located on the hill of Montjuïc, not far from the Catalonian National Museum, the Fundació Joan Miró was actually established by Joan Miró himself with the museum opened to the public in June of 1975. Conceived of in 1968 by Miró along with his friend Joan Prats, it was imagined as a space in which younger artists especially would be encouraged to experiment with contemporary art.