Barcelona / Catalonia Calling
A guide to our favourite places in Barcelona
Barcelona is a contentious destination. For many, it’s associated with pickpockets and incessant street music. On the other hand, it’s the centre of Modernisme Catalan, one of the most fascinating architectural styles of the last century, and its location by the Mediterranean Sea makes it perfect for those who can’t decide between a city break and a beach holiday.
Throughout history, Catalonia has enjoyed and lost varying degrees of autonomy. Since 1714, it has been part of the unified Spain, suppressing main Catalan political institutions and rights, turning it into a Spanish province. In the mid-20th century, Spain experienced the second-fasted economic expansion in the world (known as the Spanish Miracle), and Catalonia prospered as Spain’s most important industrial and tourist area.
In 1978, the new democratic Spanish constitution recognised Catalonia’s autonomy and language, and today, there are growing calls for Catalan independence. From many windows and balconies in Barcelona, the Catalan flag moves gently in the breeze, a statement of the many locals who wish to see an even more defined independence from Spain.
Where to Stay