The capital of Catalonia is unequivocally a Mediterranean city, not only because of its geographic location but also and above all because of its history, tradition and cultural influences. The documented history of the city dates back to the founding of a Roman colony on its soil in the second century B.C. Modern Barcelona experienced spectacular growth and economic revival at the onset of industrialization during the second half of the 19th century. The 1888 World's Fair became a symbol of the capacity for hard work and the international outlook projected by the city. Culture and the arts flourished in Barcelona and in all of Catalonia; the splendor achieved by Catalonian modernism is one of the most patent displays.

Barcelona, more than just a single city, is really a collection of multi-faceted and diverse cities. The visitor unfamiliar with its history might be surprised that such a modern and enterprising city preserves its historic Gothic center almost intact, or by the curious contrast between the maze of narrow streets and the grid-like layout of the Eixample, the urban planning "Enlargement" project of the end of the 19th century.

One of the most important celebrations in the city of Barcelona is the Mercè (patron saint of the city). The main event is on September 24th, although various pageants, concerts and activities begin three days earlier. Three of the most traditional events around the Mercé celebrations are:

'Els Castellets', building human towers. The 'castle' is deemed to be complete when the very smallest person is at the top and activities begin three days earlier.

'El Correfoc', 'diablos y demonios', devils and demons armed with all sorts of fireworks go through the streets.