 Winds of change
Barcelona’s history has truly witnessed countless changes. The city’s origins date back to the 4th century BC, when settlements began to appear on what were known as the Barcelona flatlands (Pla de Barcelona). The location was a tempting one, and rulers came and went. This was particularly true after the 9th century AD, when Barcelona’s destiny became inextricably linked to that of Catalonia. The city itself was established by the Roman Empire as a colonial outpost. In the 5th century, it was conquered by the Visigoths. Three centuries later, the Visigoths were chased off by the Muslims. Soon after it was the Franks. During the course of the millennia, Catalonia has occasionally been an independent state, but for the most part it has been governed by other powers. Pride and passion Never has this fact damaged the proud spirit of Barcelona’s people. For centuries the Catalans have upheld their yearnings for freedom, becoming known as the “eternal separatists.” This still holds true today. The emotions are on full display when the pride of Catalonia, Barcelona Football Club, takes the field against the Real Madrid: matches between these two teams represent more than football, and a victory for Barcelona over Real is something of a victory for Catalonia over Spain. Catalonia also differs from Spain in its attitude to bull-fighting. The sport, which is common in Spain, will never be seen in Barcelona, where it is considered to be in poor taste. The Catalans have their own traditions – the dance that is known as the sardana, and the astonishing and sometimes dangerous human pyramids which are called castellers. 
Cultural treasures Barcelona is said to be an outdoor museum. It is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but with an unforgettable wealth of cultural and historical heritage. Barcelona’s geographic location and its hospitable residents have allowed the city to develop further and further while never losing sight of its values. It is no accident that Barcelona has no fewer than five sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Let your feet be your guide Warm Mediterranean breezes make Barcelona a pleasure to explore by bicycle or on foot, discovering one surprise after another. A tour of the city is best begun at the impressive Plaza de Catalunya. It is here that the famous La Rambla begins – a huge pedestrian boulevard with street musicians, mimes, and shops to fulfil every heart’s desire. Another mandatory destination in Barcelona is the Barri Gòtic, or the Gothic Quarter. This part of town boasts remnants of the Roman Empire, as well as mediaeval buildings which recall the brilliance of that era. Modern architecture also makes an unforgettable impression with the symbol of contemporary Barcelona – the Sagrada Familia, Antonio Gaudi’s still-unfinished masterpiece. Work on the massive neo-Gothic cathedral began in the late 19th century. When the great master died, a dispute broke out – should the cathedral be completed, or should it be left incomplete? If the Sagrada Familia seems breathtaking to you, then you will be pleased to know that the cathedral was not the only project on which Antonio Gaudi worked. His architecture left a major impression on Barcelona’s appearance.  Spring magic
Spring and the early summer are the perfect season to visit Barcelona. The weather is not yet too hot, the tourist masses have not yet arrived, and the active city is yours for the taking. No one is disappointed after a visit to Catalonia. Barcelona offers not just the benefits of a metropolis, but also a series of lovely beaches. These have become a most popular place for leisure and recreation – nothing is missing for a pleasant and safe day at the beach. The shoreline, which is four kilometres in length, is visited by more than 7 million people each year. Getting Around Barcelona’s airport is 12 kilometres to the south of the city. From the airport, you can get to the city via train, bus or taxi. Trains run from 6:00 AM until midnight, once every half hour. A ticket costs EUR 2.25. The trip to Plaça Catalunya takes around 23 minutes. Buses run from 6:00 AM until midnight, once every 12 minutes. A one-way ticket costs EUR 3.45, while a round-trip ticket (which remains valid for one week) costs EUR 5.90. The length of the trip depends, of course, on the traffic.
If you take a taxi, expect to pay EUR 12 or more for the trip. Within Barcelona, you can travel by metro, bus, taxi or bicycle. There are six metro lines with 121 stations, as well as more than 80 bus routes. A total of more than 860 buses ply those routes each day.  Must-see Places in Barcelona
La Rambla: one of the world’s best-known pedestrian streets, with thousands upon thousands of visitors each day.
Sagrada Familia: the gigantic Gothic cathedral designed by architect Antonio Gaudi – a symbol of contemporary Barcelona and a favourite site for tourists.
Poble Espanyol: a small village featuring various building and architectural styles from all over Spain. The village was built for an international exhibition in 1929, and the buildings are occupied during the day by various kinds of craftsmen who offer their wares to visitors.
The Barcelona Zoo: a wonderful place for leisure and relaxation, the Barcelona Zoo is one of the most visited tourism objects in the city. There are animals from all over the world, as well as restaurants, picnic locations and shops.
The Picasso Museum: the art of the legendary artist can be seen in chronological order, starting with Picasso’s earliest and ending with his final works.
The Magic Fountain of Montjuic: a performance of sound, light and water which transforms the night in Barcelona and is a must-see attraction. |
