Les Ramblas is exactly what the name implies, a series of rambling streets (Rambla is Arabic for riverbed) and stone pathways where one can stroll and take in the sights. Les Ramblas begins at Placa Catalunya and ends at the sea, just as it did when it was in its original form of a river running down from Collesrola Hill. The streets are named for the churches and convents that were constructed along the riverbank in the 13th century. Originally separated from the other districts such as the Gothic Quarter and the Raval by high walls, these religious buildings once again joined the community during the 1700's, when the wall was torn down. By 1830 this religious section of Barcelona was all but closed down, making way for a much more bohemian atmosphere. Today the traveler can saunter these streets and buy flowers much like were sold during the 19th century, as this was once the only street in Barcelona where flowers were sold. In fact, there is some discrepancy as to the origin of the name; some will tell you that "Las Ramblas" is actually Arabic for "dried flowers." An adjoining street was used as a bird market, and the name--Rambla dells Ocells--the avenue of the birds still stands as a memorial for the times, although today you are more likely to find newspaper and magazine vendors. The most notable aspect of this area is that it is the most popular place for the artists and writers to meet up. Les Ramblas is home to the original live statues, artists who dress up in gray paint and stand for extremely long periods of time on the streets. It is a very popular tourist attraction, with visitors from all over the world coming to have their pictures taken with these indomitable spirits.