Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain in both size and population. It is the capital of Catalonia; one of the autonomous communities of Spain, and is located on the northeast coast of the Iberian Peninsula, facing the Mediterranean Sea. Barcelona lies on a plateau with an area of 170 square kilometres, of which over 100 square kilometres are occupied by the city itself. Barcelona is located between the two rivers Llobregat and the Besos.

The Collserola Mountain range shelters the city to the northwest, and most of the city is scattered with small hills.

Barcelona has a typically Mediterranean climate, with warm, dry summers and mild winters. The coldest months are January and February; with temperatures averaging about 10 C. July and August are the two warmest months, with temperatures of about 30 C.

Barcelona is a very modern city that still retains many historical buildings, architecture and traditions. The city is believed to have been founded as a Roman colony in the second century B.C. and Barcelona’s rich culture has evolved from this long history. The Gothic Quarter; located in Catalan, is the centre of the old city of Barcelona and is almost intact. It is home to buildings that date back from medieval times, and some from the times of the Roman settlement. The architecture found in this area have left a long lasting legacy in Barcelona, and is visited by thousands of people from all over the world every year. There are a great range of museums found all over the city which are homes to some amazing arts and buildings from different eras of the history of Barcelona. Roman ruins, Gothic Arts and Architecture play an important role in showing visitors the history of the city.

Barcelona is a bilingual city, with Catalan and Spanish being the two official languages spoken. The Catalan language is a Romance language that was developed in the 9th century, and the Eastern Catalan dialect spoken in Barcelona is very close to the standard Catalan. Since the arrival of democracy in Spain, the Catalan culture has been promoted in Barcelona with a revival of its history and past. During the previous dictatorship, the Catalan language and arts had been suppressed.

Barcelona is not only famed for its history and architecture, but for its beautiful landscape and beaches. Barcelona has over four kilometres of beaches that are frequented throughout the year. It is a modern and vibrant city, with beautiful walks along the coast, as well as around the old and new parts of the city. Small charming cobble stoned roads are dotted all over the city, and are surrounded by colourful shops and restaurants. Barcelona is a popular destination, and is often said to be one of the most romantic cities in Europe.

Barcelona has a great deal to offer people looking for history, architecture, beaches or mountains. Its beautiful location along the Mediterranean coast attracts people from all over the world. Barcelona is a charming city that boasts some amazing architecture and sites that are guaranteed to impress anyone.