Pl del Rei,
Jaume I

A museum of two halves representing two different stages in the city's history. First the underground excavations of Roman Barcelona, followed by the historic Palau Reial Major, residence of the Catalan monarchs from the 10th to the 15th century. The impressive 14th century Saló de Tinell, or throne room, is often the location special temporary exhibits.

This subterranean labyrinth of Roman streets and buildings was discovered during the construction of Via Laietana in the 1930s. It's literally history beneath our feet -- which is where you'll be if you choose to explore the troglodytic half-light of this fantastic archeological complex.

Beneath the city's present pavements and buildings you can wander the streets of ancient Barcino, visiting the remains of a Roman dye shop, a laundry and a wine factory complete with its impressive pottery wine vats. At one point you even venture beneath the Cathedral itself, into a fourth century baptistry.

Truly an extraordinary space that echoes with the sound of footsteps past.

contributor: Nigel Hayler