The Hidden Beauty Above

Walking through the streets of European cities without looking up is a missed opportunity, as the architecture and decorations of many buildings that are part of daily life can easily go unnoticed in the busy streets. However, every time I look up, I notice details that make me wonder about their purpose.

Yesterday, while strolling through the streets of Barcelona, something green caught my attention without me realizing it at first. It was the classic green pharmacy sign, very common around here. However, this one was different — it shone like an emerald. Looking at it more closely, I saw that it featured the Rod of Asclepius and a dragon’s head made of metal, serving as a support pole.

It felt like I was looking at a work of art - a simple sign designed with care, detail, and passion. I like to think it was handmade rather than a mass-produced item from a factory on the other side of the world. But even if it were, that wouldn’t take away its magic, beauty, or the good taste of the building’s decorator.

I invite you to look up more often at the upper parts of the buildings in your area—you might find some interesting details.