Bornliving 

If you are fashion minded and genuinely interested in the evolution of weaves and fabrics of all types, the Museu Textil is worth a visit. Housed in the impressive Palau dels Marquesos de Llio, well known because of its original wooden roof and ornate central courtyard (still beautifully preserved), the collection includes 16th to 20th century fashion - from richly embroidered Baroque frocks and silver soled shoes to Christobal Balenciaga’s tailored suits and fluffy “baby doll” dress and Paco Rabanne’s funky 1960’s chainmail hotpants.

There is a collection of rare fabrics and exquisite tapestries dating back to the third century, an exhibit of lace and another of dolls. The basement features the designs of Barcelona’s up and coming fashion and textile designers in contemporary exhibitions. Up in the attic, old looms and sewing machines illustrate the mechanisation of the textil trade which made the city’s fortune in the 17th and 18th centuries. While you’re up there have a look out across the rooftops around you.

At the entrance below there’s a good cafe with some tasty snacks and coffees to choose from in the beautiful courtyard.