Gracia used to be a separate village inhabited mainly by local industry workers, detached from the boundary walls of Barcelona´s Gothic centre. Then much to the locals´disgruntlement at the turn of the 19th century they became engulfed in the rapidly growing city. Even today there are people who demand Gracian independence.

During the Franco years, it was a hotbed of anarchist revolt. And today, despite the pretty streets of old balcony-fronted houses and peaceful squares, th¡s quiet, residential neighbourhood retains its political fighting spirit as a source of many protests and rallies. Gracia today has a bohemian and liberal flavour and attracts a young crowd to its many lively and trendy bars in squares such as the Plaza del Sol and the pretty Plaza de la Virreina set around a 17th century church.
Every August the neighbourhood is host to a colourful and lively street festival, the Festa Mayor (see our events guide).
Though it feels pleasantly detached from the noise and crowds of the city centre, Gracia is only a 20-minute walk from Plaza Catalunya via Paseo de Gracia, the most exclusive street in Barcelona or it is just a few stops by metro to the Gothic Quarter. Gaudi´s fantasyland Parc Guell is north of Gracia, a peaceful park unlike any other given the architect´s unique vision, and a place to soak up great views from above the city.