Av. Drassanes, 08001
Drassanes

An impressive collection of boats, models, paintings, maps, figureheads and nautical paraphernalia all housed in the ancient Reials Drassanes, the spectacular 14th century ship building yards. Be sure to pick up your audio guide, as some of the audio-visuals make no sense without it.

At the heart of the museum, inhabiting almost the entire length of one of the central bays (nearly 16m), stands an enormous replica of the sixteenth century galley ship "La Real". Ships just like this were used to fight against the Turks during the fall of the Ottoman empire.

Viewed high up from the raised platform or below from the hull, the scale of this magnificent gilded vessel is breathtaking. Up to ten men were needed to work each of the ship's mighty oars.

Condemned men, these galley slaves were known as "chusma" (the rabble). Between ports they remained chained like barnacles to their benches, unable to move from their place to eat, sleep or relieve themselves. A thumping drum kept the pace as they out-manoeuvred their masters to victory; but the life of a galley slave was a one way ticket, few ever regained their liberty.

contributor: Nigel Hayler