Barcelona, Europe's skate capital

The Spanish metropolis of Barcelona's laid-back atmosphere makes it a haven for skateboarders from all over the world

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On a blindingly bright afternoon in Barcelona, two gentle sounds are in concert.

Small waves are landing on a nearby beach, their soft crash blending into the hum of ball-bearing wheels rolling across smooth concrete. It is the kind of soothing aural backdrop that could lull you to sleep.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Sunday Times on April 29, 2018, with the headline Barcelona, Europe's skate capital. Subscribe