What used to be Barcelona's medieval trading and maritime centre, today is one of the old town's most vibrant areas, very popular with young people both day and night. The Ribera district is a medieval quarter that keeps itself young. The church of Santa Maria del Mar is a fine example of Catalan Gothic architecture, and on Carrer Montcada stand the ancient mansions which are now the home of the Museu Textil i d'Indumentaria and the Museu Barbier-Muller d'Art Precolombi' featuring silver and goldware, sculptures and ceramics from the Atzec, Mayan and Inca cultures. The Picasso Museum is also here, which showcases early work by the artist who spent his youth in this district.
