El Raval is a district in the Ciutat Vella of Barcelona. It is located near Las Ramblas and is often referred to as China Town ("Barri Xino"). As the name suggests, the area is home to people of all different cultures. For this reason, many young people, particularly students from all parts of the world, choose Raval as their home. It is estimated that of the 200,000 inhabitants of Raval, about 70 percent are under 35 years old. And this rising trend means Raval has become a barrio full of cafes, bars, stylish shops and art galleries. The shopping in Raval is highly recommended. There are many small shops with brands which usually can't be found in normal stores. Second-hand shops, music shops and fancy clothes- there are shops on every corner. There is somewhat of an international fashion scene in Raval as the young people in the area bring different styles with them from their home countries. But Raval also boasts a lot of great sights such as the museum MACBA (Museu d'Art Contemporani Barcelona), which with the CCCB (Centre de Cultura Contemporania de Barcelona) has displayed many important contemporary works of art and international exhibitions from the late 20th Century. Furthermore, there are many galleries in Raval that are worth a visit along with the Monastery of Sant Pau del Camp, the unfinished church Eglesia de Sant Agusti, the Palau Güell (Gaudi's first major project) and the Maritime Museum at the end of Raval, which includes the city's old walls and gate which date back to medieval times. Interestingly, the name Raval comes from Arabic meaning "outside the walls". L'Illa de la Rambla del Raval is a mega-complex, which consists of a hotel, offices, apartments, shops and a huge video library. Every weekend at the Rambla de Raval there is an ethnic market in which all kinds of products are offered. This is directly next Botero's sculpture of a giant cat. The nightlife in Raval is a truly special experience. Restaurants in this district offer local cuisine (Catalan specialities) but also international cuisine. It is easy to find restaurants, which offer individual but also traditional food. Give in to the temptation of the delicious treats on offer and wash it all down in one of the many bars in Raval. The multicultural atmosphere is reflected in the exceptional pubs like the Bar Marsella and the Bar Pastis, which are famous for their absinthe. And in the clubs, there is always a great festival atmosphere. Raval is one of the oldest districts, along with the "Barrio Gótico", which directly borders with Las Ramblas. The contrast between the old and new architecture can really help to make your stay in Raval a special one. The best way to reach Raval is directly from Las Rambla, and the nearest Metro stations are Drassanes and Liceu on line L3 and Paral-lel and Sant Antoni on line L2.