Barcelona is the vibrant capital of Catalonia. It is a city with a rich Mediterranean culture and history and dynamic industrial tradition. It is located to the south of the Pyrenees Mountains, on the North East coast of the Iberian Peninsula, not far from France. It is the second largest city in Spain.

It was established by Hamilcar Barca as Barcino in the 3rd Century B.C. and soon became part of the Byzantine empire. It was conquered in turn by the Visgoths and Moors and then reclaimed for Spain in the 9th Century by Charlemagne’s son, Louis.

Catalonia has a strong national spirit that has been tested throughout history. During the War of Spanish Succession in 1714, King Philip V of Spain demolished La Ribera (the merchant quarter) and forbade the use of Catalan. Just over two hundred years later, the Spanish Civil War ushered in another era of political repression as Francisco Franco ruled until his death in 1975.
Barcelona has become one of the most desirable destinations for holiday makers as well as an important business center.  It is blessed by great weather which allows one to take advantage of the magnificent beaches at the city’s doorstep.

It is a city of culture, of fascinating museums, an earthy Gothic Center and awe inspiring architecture as exemplified by the still to be completed Sagrada Familia designed by the genius Antoni Gaudi
We look forward to welcoming you in this fascinating city.

Beatty and Karin Crawford