George Orwell Square (Plaça de George Orwell)

The basics

East of La Rambla, this square has two particular points of interest: a towering reproduction of a sculpture by Catalan surrealist artist Leandre Cristòfol and Orwell’s former home itself, labeled with a small plaque. There are also a few cafes with outdoor tables shaded by parasols. It’s easy to miss George Orwell Square if you’re not seeking it out, but many walking and bicycle tours of the Gothic Quarter stop there.

Things to know before you go

• George Orwell Square is a good place for families to take a break, as it has a small playground suitable for toddlers and young children.

• The square and its surrounding Gothic Quarter are best explored on foot, so wear comfortable shoes.

• Restrooms are available in the cafes that dot the square for paying customers.

How to get there

The square is in the Gothic Quarter, just east of La Rambla and five minutes from the Cathedral of Barcelona. The area is easy to navigate on foot or by bicycle, and rideshare vehicles are widely available. The nearest metro stop is Liceu (on Line 3), about a 7-minute walk away.

When to get there

George Orwell Square offers different things at different times. During the day, it’s a great place to relax with a cup of coffee or bring your kids to the playground. The ambiance is more festive at night, when residents gather in the area for drinks or dinner, and most cafes stay open relatively late.

George Orwell

One of the most influential writers of the early 20th century, George Orwell is best known for his socially critical works, notably 1984 and the allegorical Animal Farm. Before writing either of these works, Orwell penned Homage to Catalonia, which chronicles his brief period of fighting for the Republican faction in the Spanish Civil War.