
The city has inherited a rich cultural tradition resulting from its prime position in the Mediterranean and has a unique identity with its own language – Catalan.
"Barcelona was founded as a Roman colony at the end of the 1st century BC, when it was known as Barcino."
From the 13th to 15th centuries, the city enjoyed a period of splendour, to which the Gothic Quarter still bears witness. In the mid-19th century an industrial revolution took place and a period of cultural renewal began.
Barcelona ended the 19th century with a major urban transformation and its landmark neighbourhood – the Eixample (Expansion) – was built, which showcases some of the most characteristic modernista buildings.
For many years holidaymakers have accounted for approximatley 50% of visitors to the city, making it an ideal destination for a short break.