BARCELONA   

 

Barcelona, Catalan capital, is one of the most important cities in the western Mediterranean region. Host city to the 1992 Olympic Games, Barcelona was founded in Roman times and enjoyed flourishing periods, particularly from the economic and cultural point of view, during the Middle Ages and after the Industrial Revolution (19th century). The city contains an extraordinary wealth of monumental heritage, particularly as regards the Gothic, Art Nouveau ¾known here as Modernisme¾ (Gaudí) and the 20th century avant-gardes. Barcelona's attractions also include its long coastline with leisure areas and beaches and many important museums. This is, then, not only a cultural centre (music, theatre, exhibitions) but also a key trade and sporting city. Excellent hotels and superb restaurants. SIGHTSEEING:  - The old city (Gothic Quarter and Picasso museum). - The Ramblas (The popular market of La Boquería and the Opera House). - The seafront (Shipyards, Columbus monument, la Barceloneta, Maremagnum and the Olimpic village). - Montjüic (The castle, the olimpic ring, the Miro and MNAC museum, the spanish village, etc).  - The city center of Barcelona (Catalunya Square). - Gaudí works (Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, Sagrada Familia and Parc Güell).