Palau Requesens, Gothic palace in Gothic Quarter, Spain.
Palau Requesens is a Gothic palace in Barcelona's Gothic Quarter featuring pointed arches, stone walls, and medieval architectural elements integrated into the ancient Roman city wall. The building displays a blend of construction from different historical periods woven into its structure.
The palace was constructed between the 14th and 15th centuries as a testament to Barcelona's medieval period. Its builders reused sections of older Roman fortifications that remain visible in the foundation and lower walls.
The palace now houses the Academy of Fine Letters, an institution dedicated to preserving and promoting Catalan literature and language studies. Visitors can experience the ongoing cultural activities and events hosted within its historic rooms.
The building sits within the narrow streets of the Gothic Quarter and is best reached on foot from Jaume I metro station. Access involves walking through medieval-era lanes, so comfortable footwear is recommended.
Stones from the original Roman defensive wall dating to the 1st century BC are visible within the building's structure. These remains are directly incorporated into the Gothic framework, telling the story of how Barcelona transformed across multiple centuries.
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