Café Caelum (Heaven in Latin) is not just a pleasant tea/coffee house and a gift shop, but the paradise in the Gothic quarter.
On the first floor you can buy a wide variety of delights made in Spanish convents and monasteries. Next to the shop there is a lovely room with huge windows facing the street. But the most breathtaking spot is downstairs, in the basement. You wouldn’t expect to find the remains of the female Jewish public baths hiding beneath, dated from the 14th century. They are amazingly well-preserved. The men’s baths are hidden in a furniture shop (Oliver), located two minutes on foot from Caelum, on Banys Nous street, right at the corner. The basement is illuminated by candle lights giving the place a romantic and mysterious atmosphere. The arches and the remains are spectacular.
It’s like having a drink not today but in the past, back into the Middle Ages. They serve a great selection of teas as well as home-made pastries displayed on a table in the middle of the room. Ah, they also have hot thick chocolate!
Unfortunately, Caelum has become too popular among tourists and it is now difficult to find a table downstairs. Don’t give up, wait for a while, the place is worth a visit. Due to its reputation and good reviews, pastries and teas are a bit more expensive than in other tea rooms. However, to be honest and as a local, I’d suggest you to go, at least, once.
