The historic buildings in the old town, called gothic quarter, are not maintained well, they are grey from dust, many are dilapidated, but graffiti, garbage and noise does not prevent the tourists to flock there.
To experience real Spanish life we took the Metro to another neighborhood to see the biggest flea market in the city. Then walked to the street where one of the famous buildings Gaudi designed stands.
The city most likely spends the tourist tax they just increased again two weeks ago on other priorities than historic preservation. They seem to prefer modernist architecture anyway, Barcelona has some truly interesting structures for sure.
The sun came out, it was time to get some fresh air and go down to the seashore again.
The sea, the waves, the reflection of light always captures us, regardless of where we are.
Did you know, that there are almost no tides on the Mediterranean sea?