Hearing that we were going to be going on another field trip back to a new area surrounding the Cathedral was great news. Having been quite familiar with these streets after already visiting them once increased my expectations about what I was now going to encounter when we return to the small streets around the Cathedral.
After going on this field trip I now feel like I have a much better understanding of the area surround Via Laietana. The streets that we adventured down allowed us to experience another division of the city. Prof. Xavi had mentioned that the city is divided into four parts, Political, Merchants, the Cathedral, and the Arts. Knowing about the different divisions that existed throughout the city helps paint a better picture and reasoning for what exists. Other than the iron and architecture that always draws my attention in these small alleys, there was a lot of information that we learned that attracted my attention as well. For example, I was not aware of some of the many struggles women faced when living in this city. I could not imagine having to transport large laundry loads to and from the fountain area. This fun fact increased my appreciation for a washing machine because I could not imagine having to perform the labor these women once did.
One of the areas we explored consisted of smaller apartments. I was interested to hear that many poor people were once placed in this location of the city and landlords had the ability to kick older men and women out who were not capable of paying rent. Other interesting facts that captured my attention was the thought of people transporting furniture through these narrow buildings, often forcing families to construct their bedroom sets once they entered into their bedrooms. Upon entering into this area, my first reaction was that the air did not smell as fresh and clean as other locations within the city. Distracted by the smell, we soon found out that this area culminated more pollution due to the construction of the buildings and closeness of the buildings that prevent air from escaping more easily.
As the field trip progressed, I was shocked to see how fast we walked to the area of barceloneta. I never knew that this metro stop and surrounding area was able to be approached on foot and I am glad to see that it is as easy to get to walking as it is to take the metro. This area was breathtaking and I love being close to the water, which is one of the aspects of the city I enjoy the most. Furthermore, I wish that I enjoyed seafood so I could experience the “orgasmic” seafood this city has to offer and that we were told about. If I am feeling experimental one day, I will make sure that I taste the food located in the secret restaurant we were told of.
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