This Born Street was the most upmarket address in Barcelona in the 12^th century. Boasting a string of compact mansions where medieval trading families once dwelt, they were built around large open courtyards and closed off from the nosy or hostile behind thick wooden doorways.

Many of these buildings have now been converted into bars, museums and galleries making C/ Montcada one of the most popular streets in the city partly due to its biggest attraction, the Museu Picasso.

Even though it’s a busy street with many tourists, its largely free of kitsch souvenir shops and has some smart galleries and shops, which fit the mood and style of the street. The famous Maeght Gallery (Nº 25) has a sweeping courtyard with a staircase of wonderful columns. It exhibits the work of new and established artists and also has an excellent bookshop. At Nº 20 the 17th-century Palau Dalmases, complete with overblown staircase and spacious inner court, now promotes itself as an Espai Barroc (Baroque Space), where you can sip an expensive cocktail amid red velvet and dripping candles.