The soaring and whimsical architecture of Barcelona is most closely identified with Antoni Gaudi, but a host of talented architects contributed to its memorable skyline as well. Lluís Domènech i Montaner (1850-1923), for example, designed several buildings in the modernisme català style that went on to become defining structures of the city. His Palau de la Música Catalana celebrates its centennial in 2008, so there's no better time than now to take in a performance. Its concert hall is considered one of the finest in the world, hosting performances of opera and classical music - as well as jazz, flamenco, and folk - for discerning fans from Spain and around the world. Highlights of this season include performances of Vivaldi, Sibelius, and my personal favorite, Debussy. A tip: try to take in a daytime performance, or else arrange a tour while the sun is still out. The auditorium, with its ornate stained-glass ceiling, is the only concert hall of its kind in Europe that is illuminated during daylight hours entirely by natural light. Guests at Le Méridien Barcelona might enjoy a visit to this living piece of musical and architectural history.
