Barcelona

Barkeno

Barcino marble barcelona

Muralla Raval

Wyngaerde Barcelona 1563

Fortress on Montjuic

Barcelona is the capital and largest city of the Catalan autonomous community in Spain. It is the second most populous municipality of Spain, and with over 1.6 million residents within its city limits and more than 4.8 million within its urban area, it ranks as the sixth most populous urban area in the European Union. Situated on the northeastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula, facing the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona has a rich cultural heritage and is today an important cultural centre and a major tourist destination. The city is known for its architecture, particularly the work of Antoni Gaudí, who, along with other late 19th and early 20th century architects, contributed to Barcelona's distinctive Catalan Modernista architectural style.

History

Barcelona's history dates back to its founding as a Roman city in the 1st century BC. Over the centuries, it has been under the rule of the Visigoths, Moors, and Franks before becoming part of the Crown of Aragon. The city played an important role in the Spanish Civil War, and its history is marked by various cultural and political upheavals.

Geography

Barcelona is located on the northeast coast of the Iberian Peninsula, facing the Mediterranean Sea. It lies between the rivers Llobregat and Besòs and is bordered to the west by the Serra de Collserola mountain range.

Economy

The economy of Barcelona is diverse, with strong sectors in manufacturing, particularly textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles. In recent years, the city has also become a significant hub for technology and innovation, fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem. Tourism also plays a crucial role in Barcelona's economy, driven by the city's famous landmarks, museums, and galleries.

Culture

Barcelona is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, particularly in the arts and architecture. The city is home to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the works of Antoni Gaudí, such as Park Güell, Casa Milà, and Sagrada Família. Barcelona's cultural scene is also vibrant in terms of contemporary art, theatre, music, and gastronomy.

Sport

Sport is an integral part of Barcelona's culture, with the city hosting the 1992 Summer Olympics. The city is also home to one of the world's most famous football clubs, FC Barcelona, which plays its home games at the Camp Nou stadium.

Transport

Barcelona is served by a comprehensive public transport network that includes buses, trams, and a metro system. The city also has a major international airport, Barcelona-El Prat Airport, and is a significant port for both commercial and passenger ships.

Education

The city is a significant educational centre, home to several universities and higher education institutions, including the University of Barcelona and Pompeu Fabra University. Barcelona is also known for its international schools and business schools.

See also

• Catalonia
• Spain
• Antoni Gaudí
• FC Barcelona