Guide to Barcelona

Bar Marsella

Tuesday, 14 September 2010 12:50

In and Around Barcelona

The Marsella Bar is known for beeing the oldest bar in Barcelona. Opened in 1820 in El Raval, Bar Marsella is said to be Barcelona's very first bar and everyone from Picasso to Hemmingway is rumoured to have been a regular at some point in this establishment's long and louche history. Paradoxically, while the grime on the chandeliers thickens, the floor tiles become even tattier and the cobwebs in every corner spread further, Marsella's appeal only seems to grow. Perhaps because the bar's mix of local Bohemians and brave tourists enjoy drinking in the sense of history as much as the venue's famed absinthe.

As pimps, prostitutes and thieves cavort right outside you are very much in the heart of the sleazy underbelly of Barcelona's nightlife, barely changed from the 19th century! Just when you thought it couldn't get any better (or worse!), a misanthropic bar manager who refuses to stomach any singing or dancing (this doesn't dull the atmosphere!) cements Marsella's cult status - no wonder Woody Allen chose to shoot a scene from Vicky Cristina Barcelona right here! Best after midnight as it gets going late.

This longtime bar is also known for serving Absinthe. The fact is that this drink is banned in many countries, including Europe. Absinthe is an alcoholic beverage with a flavor similar to anise and a high grading, up to 89 degrees. Absinthe has always raised much controversy, saying that a certain amount of absinthe causes hallucinations. But these hallucinations are not due to the absinthe itself, but to its high alcohol percentage. The difference is that we can get drunk by drinking less. So be careful by consuming Absinthe. Absinthe can be reduced with water and / or add some sugar, which is the normal way of serving.

Do not think you can go to many bars with almost two hundred years, reason enough to visit this place! But be sure that you will be there on time, since you only can find a free table untill mid night. This bar is very popular and full of charm, so give it a try!

Adress
Bar Marsella
C/San Pau, 65
08001, Barcelona

Metro
Metro Lines: L3 Liceu or L3 Drassanes.

Location
It is located very near to the lower part of Rambla de Raval. You can easily reach it by walking down the Ramblas to Carrer Sant pau, just stop before reaching Rambla de Raval.

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