Barcelona, capital of the Catalonia region, is Spain’s second biggest city located in the north east of the Mediterranean Sea, beside the Pyrenees Mountains. It has a population of more than 1.5 million people.

Although the capital of Spain is Madrid, Barcelona is the more renowned city. In fact, it is the most renowned city in all of Spain. Catalonia is a polemic spot which has its own language although the official languages in Spain are Spanish and Catalan. Catalan is not difficult to understand since it is similar to Spanish.

Barcelona was originally named Barcino, after a Carthaginian ruler, Hamilcar Barca. It is said to be established by Carthaginians and Phoenicians. It is rich in history with the Romans present at 1BC, the Visigoths at 5 AD and the Moors at 8 AD before the Franks.

From counties to territories, the region expanded to be known as Catalonia. Barcelona gained importance as a city during the 19th century Industrial Revolution. Catalonia managed to restore its political power to make Barcelona a relevant and interesting part of Spain.

Barcelona became more famous after hosting the 1992 Olympic Games successfully, with several other successful hosting of international events along the way, such as the 2004 Universal Forum of Cultures. Its city streets are well planned with organized housing and buildings. The city centre has its main avenue “La Rambla” running from its famed Square of Catalunya, all the way to the enchanting Mediterranean waters and Old Port.

Barcelona has a string of thrilling offerings for every visitor or local; enchanting sights aside, Barcelona established itself as an important and relevant business centre due to its strategic location as well as its historical links with surrounding regions. The beaches are excellent destinations for all in Barcelona as the mild climate all year through, is very encouraging for a day out. Its temperature of 10 degrees Celsius during winter and 25 degrees Celsius during summer makes Barcelona a preferred destination of fun, thrills or relaxation, even if rains are expected frequently.

There’s never a dull moment in Barcelona, as there’s so much to see, do and taste. Besides the awesome Holy Family cathedral mentioned, Sagrada Familia, which is incomplete till this day, there is the renowned Gaudi's works of Park Güell, which are eccentrically shaped monuments of unique stones and ceramic that represent elements of nature. For a time of fun and thrills, there is the serene park with a colorful terrace for a breath-taking view of the city. Since there is no entrance fee to visit the park which is open daily, it is a worthy visit to relax and enjoy the greens and serenity of a park in the city.

For art lovers, the famed Picasso Museum with Spanish modernism masterpieces, are right at the city centre, close to a few mediaeval palaces. The number of museums in Barcelona will occupy your time worthily. Barcelona is also renowned for its culture and arts inspiration with outstanding music, dance and theatrical events with the second largest Opera theatre, “el Liceu” on “La Rambla” street.

Nightlife is a unique experience in Barcelona which must not be missed out, with the numerous restaurants and bars offering delectable dishes and wine selection.

It’s never enough time to explore Barcelona as its offering is varied and vast; so drop by and discover its treasures by wandering through its streets, day or night.

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