10 Interesting Facts about Barcelona

2.- It’s Older than Rome. One theory about the origins of Barcelona says the city may have been founded by Hercules, 400 years before Rome was built, but truth is, no one really knows…

3.- If everything had gone according to Gustave Eiffel’s initial plan, Paris’ most famous landmark Eiffel Tower would now be in Barcelona. Unfortunately, Spain rejected the architect’s project, deciding that it was too “radical” and did not fit the city’s aesthetics.

4.- In the past, the Barcelona coastline was filled with industries to such an extent that was no place left for people to enjoy the sea. This changed in 1992, when the city became the site of the Olympics. The authorities moved the industries and transformed the area into a place of leisure with numerous restaurants bars and, of course, new cool beaches.

5.- Barcelona was the capital city of Spain from 1937 to 1939. Today, it remains the capital of the region of Catalonia.

6.- Barcelona is the only city in the world to have received the Royal Gold Medal for architecture. The Royal Institute of British Architects gives the award to a person or a group of people who’s had a significant influence on the advancement of architecture.

7.- There are 12 abandoned metro stations in Barcelona – and rumor has it, they’re haunted. They were initially left due to the expansion and modification of the city’s layout, which led to the stations losing importance.

8.- In 2005, Spain became the 4th country to legalize gay marriages in the world. The city implemented the law of anti-homophobia in 2014. Today, it’s considered one of the most LBGTQ+-friendly cities and celebrates the Pride festival in June.

9.- Park Güell is actually a failed housing project. The initial plan was to build 60 villas on the site where Park Güell stands today. This idea fell through shortly afterwards, as there was very little interest shown in the area, so the building ceased after two show houses were completed.

10.- Las Ramblas is actually 5 streets combined . The famous tree-lined pedestrian in Barcelona is also sometimes called Las Ramblas because it is made up of smaller sections.

Barcelona is one of this kind of city with an amazing mix between perfect size and quality life. The sun, the beaches, the food and its architecture leaves you spoiled for choice. If you are thinking about visiting Barcelona here are my best tips before you get on board this chaotic adventure!