At UPF in Barcelona, we have three terms and I have now finished my second set of exams – ready for a few weeks off for Easter holidays. With Barcelona’s excellent public transport network, it is so easy to access the areas surrounding the city in Catalonia. This presents the opportunity to explore areas I otherwise might not get the chance to experience. While Gaudi’s distinctive architectural wonders can be seen throughout Barcelona’s landscape, another prominent Spanish artist is Salvador Dali. I took the opportunity to visit his museum in the north of Catalonia.

To reach the museum, I boarded a train from Barcelona’s central station to Figueres, a small town located in the Northern region of Spain, where Dali’s museum and gallery are situated. With summer approaching, Barcelona becomes increasingly busy with tourists, making the quiet Figueres a welcome escape. Situated near the French border, strolling through Figueres allowed me to appreciate the fusion of French and Spanish influences evident in the local architecture and streets. Moreover, the affordability of dining options was a pleasant surprise, with many cafes offering sandwich and coffee deals for around 4 euros – a stark contrast to prices typically found in the UK.

Salvador Dali is a significant figure in the surrealism art movement. His distinctive and imaginative style has left a lasting impression on the art world. Dali delves into peculiar concepts and dreams in his paintings and sculptures, captivating audiences worldwide. His unconventional artworks continue to intrigue people because of their distinctiveness. The museum, designed by Dali, serves as a showcase for his captivating artworks and sculptures, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in his unique artistic vision.

Before visiting the museum, my knowledge of the artist was quite limited, and I was taken aback by the diversity of Dali’s creations. While I had always admired his surrealist style, I came to realise that I hadn’t fully grasped the extent of his range. Dali’s work may not appeal to everyone, but the museum provides an immersive experience that serves as a fantastic backdrop for his unconventional creations.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to this museum and would highly recommend it to anyone. Barcelona serves as an excellent base for exploring various European destinations affordably. The art and architecture I have seen in Barcelona and Catalonia is unique and distinctive from anywhere else in Europe and I have loved learning more about it during my study abroad.

~ Eliza Urquhart (Go Abroad Ambassador 2023/24)