When thinking of Barcelonas must-sees, many people think first of its architectural icons such as the Sagrada Familia by Gaudí. A close second is probably the sea and sandy beaches. So it comes at no surprise that the Barceloneta neighbourhood is a popular place among tourists and locals alike as you will find wide sandy beaches surrounded by many restaurants, bars and clubs.
The iconic sculpture of an iron tower is probably one of the most photographed landmarks in the area. It is called L’Estel Ferit or Wounded Shooting Star. Despite its popularity, only a few people know that it was designed by German artist Rebecca Horn for the Olympic Games, which were held in Barcelona in 1992. The now popular Barceloneta had been a rather neglected neighbourhood for a long time and has changed remarkably since the 1980ies and 90ies.
The sculpture consists of four cubes that are a reminder of the Barceloneta’s history. Rebecca Horn wanted to remind us of the legendary seafront bars which could be found all along Barcelona’s coastline just a few years before the sculpture was made. These so-called xiringuitos were shacks that had already started to fall apart when they were removed. Today, new bars and restaurants have opened along the coast. For me, a beer at sunset sitting right next to the Wounded Shooting Star, is still the best way to enjoy a warm, breezy summer evening in Barcelona.
