Le Marsella is a true Barcelona institution.
As soon as you enter, you're overwhelmed by the splendor of its inimitable decor. On the premises, you can try the monks' spirit: absinthe.
Let's discover this place together!
Bar Marsella Barcelona : article summary
Marseille's old-fashioned decor
The place has aged for a century and looks like it's been abandoned for decades. The ceiling is unpainted, some light bulbs have not been replaced and the mirrors are damaged. However, the place retains something superb.
The large marble bar, ceramic floor and large wooden windows give the Marsella an indefinable charm.
The furniture is also period, with wooden chairs and wrought-iron tables. There's a very vintage, authentic feel to the bar, which contributes to its charm and historic appeal.
Marsella, an emblematic Barcelona bar
The Marsella is located in the Barceloneta. Founded in 1856, it is considered one of the city's oldest bars. Famous personalities such as Pablo Picasso, Ernest Hemingway and Joan Miró.
Marsella is best known for its signature drink, Absinthe, served in the French tradition. It's also appreciated for its authentic atmosphere and period decor. Marsella is considered a landmark of Barcelona culture.
Bar Marsella in Barcelona: Fancy a little absinthe?
In the heyday of the Marsella, loyal customers would buy their own bottle of absinthe, pour themselves a few glasses and store it in the bar's display cabinets until their next visit. The bottles adorning the walls are now over a hundred years old and unfit for consumption.
A glass costs about 5 euros and is served with a lump of sugar and a little water. Pour the water over the sugar so that it penetrates the alcohol, and you can enjoy it once the sugar has disappeared into the beverage. Rest assured, absinthe diluted in sugar water is not strong.
A few words about absinthe, the bar's speciality
Absinthe is an alcoholic drink made from plants, mainly grand wormwood, which contains thujone. It was very popular in Europe, particularly in France, in the XIXᵉ century. Quickly banned in many countries due to its high alcohol content, absinthe is still accompanied by the belief thatit caused hallucinations and violent behavior.
Absinthe is generally green, although it can also be other colors, and has a pronounced aniseed taste. Traditionally served with ice water and a sugar cube to sweeten the taste, it contains only 60 to 70 % of alcohol.
Experience the atmosphere of Marseille
The Marsella's regulars are mostly in their thirties. The relaxed atmosphere of the place provides a casual ground where lively conversations abound. It's a place where people come together to enjoy a drink and socialize in a relaxed setting. As the bar has a long history, you can also find older customers who come to drink absinthe and reminisce about the good old days.
Because of its historical significance and reputation, it's a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. Many visitors come to the bar to experience the authentic atmosphere and try the traditional absinthe ritual.
What are the opening hours?
The bar opens its doors:
- Sunday to Thursday from 5 p.m. to midnight
- Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
How to get to Bar Marsella in Barcelona
To get there, you can borrow :
- Visit metro and get off at Liceu or Drassane station
- the bus 14, 17, 19, 36, 39, 45, 57, 59, 64 or 157 and get off at the Barceloneta-Sant Carles stop, then walk for about 3 minutes to get to Marsella
Now you know how to spend a good evening with friends in Barcelona. This bar and its simple, traditional setting are perfect for evenings out on the town!
Leave a Reply