On one of my free days in Barcelona, my roommates and I embarked on a two-part adventure. We first visited the MOCA Museum, short for the Museum of Contemporary Art. Despite the fact that it was the third Sunday of the month, we had to pay around 20 euros for entry. While the museum offered an interesting experience, it fell short of my expectations and misinterpreted the philosophies of artists like Banksy, who believed art should be accessible to all without charge. The gift shop had overpriced items, but I would suggest visiting the museum on a different Sunday when admission is free, but be prepared for the misrepresentation of certain artists.
The most intriguing aspect of the MOCA Museum was the display of digital art and the Banksy exhibit!
After our museum visit, we embarked on an hour-long hike to reach a fort/castle. This site held historical significance, serving as both a fort and a castle. Originally a fort where the king of Spain stayed, it was later designated as a castle. Reaching the summit was immensely satisfying, and entry to the castle was free. Although there wasn’t much to see inside, as it had recently been transformed into a museum, I would recommend this destination to avid hikers or those interested in the history of the Spanish Civil War.
In conclusion, my final free day in Barcelona encompassed a visit to the MOCA Museum, which left me disappointed in its misinterpretation of artists’ intentions, followed by a rewarding hike to a fort-turned-castle. While the museum visit may be worth it on a day with free admission, the castle is a worthwhile destination for hiking enthusiasts or history buffs.