Opposite the Palau Moxó, in the small Sant Just Squar, is the beautiful Basilica of Saints Just i Pastor, considered the last of the great Gothic temples in Barcelona and declared a Cultural Asset of National Interest. In this parish district were located the Palau Reial Major as well as the residences of the wealthiest noble families, which gave an economic boost to the construction of the church (14th to 16th centuries). Also in the square is the Font de Sant Just (14th century), which was the first public fountain of potable water in the city.
Between the 13th and 15th centuries, local aristocrats established their residences around Plaza de Sant Just, and the area became the fashionable district among the elites of the time.
In addition to the Palau Moxó, there are also neighbouring mansions such as the Palamós Countess Palace or Requesens Palace (current headquarters of the Reial Acadèmia de les Bones Lletres on Bisbe Caçador street, 3), the Graell-Pallejà Palace -former Fivaller Palace (Lledó street, 4) and the Palau Mercader Palace (Lledó street, 11).
Also on Lledó street -one of the prizest stately street in medieval Barcelona- sets the Mercer Hotel Barcelona, the Mercer chain flagship property. This exclusive 5-star Monument hotel occupies a medieval palace renovated by the prestigious architect Rafael Moneo and contains architectural remains from different periods, including part of the ancient Roman wall and one of its defence towers (Lledó street, 7).
Nowadays the Gothic Quarter is still the soul of Barcelona with the city's main points of interest. It is worth getting lost in its narrow streets and charming squares, discovering its thousand-year-old history, visiting its monuments, museums, markets and design shops, as well as enjoying the local cuisine in bars, restaurants and terraces. A central vibrant district, just a few minutes from the beach, where you can feel the city.
