Passeig del Born, Barcelona

The Born goes from the apse of Santa Maria del Mar Church up to the market and is where the legendary jousting matches of the Middle Ages took place, as well as numerous fairs and marches. This is also where men were knighted. However, in the 18th Century the Ribera area went into decline and the mansions that use to line the avenue began to disappear, one by one. The only one left is at number 17, and you can still see the 14th-century Gothic façade. Nowadays the area is positively packed with stylish bars and restaurants and is a favorite haunt for locals.