Placa de Sant Josep Oriol is a lively, well-adorned square that's located beside Santa Maria del Pi Basilica in Barcelona's Gothic quarter and hosts an artists’ market every weekend. Mostre d’Art dels Pintors del Pi consists of around 40 local artists on the weekends, showcasing unique cultural pieces and souvenirs. This square is also significant because it was constructed on the site of one of the basilica’s cemeteries.
Spanish guitar concerts are given here daily by picturesque backdrops beside bars and cafes, which are common places to chat and relax and a regular and trendy choice of retreat for locals as well as tourists.
Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol in Barcelona - one of the highlights of 10 Best Places to Go Shopping in Barcelona (Read all about Barcelona here)
photo by Bernard Gagnon (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified
What are the highlights of Placa de Sant Josep Oriol in Barcelona?
Among the highlights of Placa de Sant Josep Oriol is the sculpture of Sant Joseph Oriol. The sculpture rests on the facade of Casa Mercedes Llopart across from a sign commemorating an unnamed militia fighter from the fight against fascism. The bronze statue of Angel Guimera, a great Catalan writer and poet, overlooks the square.
The beloved Bar del Pi on Placa de Sant Josep Oriol is one of Barcelona's most culturally symbolic bars and provides an unmatched view of the square and its energetic performance artists. The top of the bell tower of Santa Maria del Pi Basilica also provides a panoramic view of Barcelona.
What else is good to know about Placa de Sant Josep Oriol in Barcelona?
A food-centric fair is hosted every month on the square and features local Catalan specialities such as cheeses, honey, wines and cake. Placa de Sant Josep Oriol is located near the popular La Rambla, with the closest metro stop being Liceu, which is on the green L4 line. By bus, you can take the Red Route to the Gothic quarter stop.
When you visit the square, you may want to check out other important attractions nearby, including the Cathedral, Placa de Catalunya, Passeig de Gracia, El Call (the city's Jewish quarter), Carrer de Petritxol, Placa de Sant Felip Neri and the Liceu Opera House.
photo by trolvag (CC BY-SA 3.0) modified
Plaça de Sant Josep Oriol in Barcelona
Location: Barcelona, Spain