SPAIN : BARCELONA
Barcelona
is the capital city of
Catalonia
(Spain). It is located
in the comarca of Barcelonès, along the Mediterranean coast between the
mouths of the rivers Llobregat and Besòs.
Barcelona
has undergone a radical change and has been rewarded for it with an
increased popularity since the early 1990’s., mostly due to the hosting
of the Olympic Games in 1992. As well as a string of purpose built
sporting developments springing up all over the city (with the epicentre
on the slopes of Montjuïc), Barcelona also benefited from major
investments.
Of
Roman origin, Barcelona's long history and economic dynamism have
provided it with an impressive cultural heritage, shown in the
conservation of its rich historic and artistic heritage and in the
encouragement of the newest artistic trends. Its long cultural agenda
will lead the visitor through museums, exhibitions, outdoor
sculptures... and an extensive calendar of music, theatre, and dance.
The modernist architect Antoni Gaudi,
Barcelona’s most famous son, whose unique style can still be admired in
a number of first-rate buildings around the city, has given the city
with a marvellous masterpiece : the (unfinished ) Sagrada Familia
cathedral which has become a symbol of Barcelona. More examples of his
work can be seen in the lampposts and fountains of Plaça Reial.
The popular culture of
Barcelona is still deeply rooted in old traditions, such as the Mercè
Festival, or the holiday celebrations in the districts of Gràcia, Sants,
or Poblenou. The innovative and imaginative cuisie is based on both
tradition and modernity : organically grown produce, fresh fish,
sausages and olive oil. Home-made pastries, and sparkling wines will
round off a merely superficial approach to Barcelona's culinary culture.
