Bar Marsella. Absinthe bar in Raval area of Barcelona. Bar Masella opened in 1820 and has not dusted or painted since then by the look of it. The crumbling and ancient interior with high ceilings in the Raval barrio does, however, have a special atmosphere and vibe, not least because it's easy to imagine past customers like Picasso, Dali and Hemingway swilling down a glass of absinthe here. Many tourists come to try the absenta, absinthe, which is served by pouring into a glass and then pouring cold water over a sugar cube resting on a small fork lying across the top of the glass. When the sugar dissolves, use the fork to mix the sugar and absinthe, drink it and wait for the funny pictures to appear. Not in a pretty neighbourhood, but if you are looking for inspiration in the hallucinatory effects that absinthe is supposed to produce, then this is the place in Barcelona. Absinthe is the house speciality, but beers and other drinks are available. Cool vibe with lots of locals and original decor.

Opening times Bar Marsella
Monday to Thursday 23:00 to 02:30
Friday and Saturday 23:00 to 03:00
Sunday closed