![]() ![]() If there s a pattern emerging in how Barcelona presents itself to the outside world, it s the emphasis on a remarkable fusion of economic energy and cultural expression. Since then the economic and physical transformation of Barcelona has been extraordinary, with some remarkable new buildings and public spaces sharing the limelight with renovated historic quarters, revamped museums and a sparkling city beachfront. Along with a construction programme that touched every corner of the city went the indisputable knowledge that these had been Barcelona s Games, and not Spain s an important distinction to the Catalan people. Barcelona itself has long had the reputation of being at the forefront of Spanish political activism, and of radical design and architecture, but these cultural distinctions are rapidly becoming secondary to the city s position as one of the most dynamic commercial centres in the country.ħ Dancing the sardana Gaining the 1992 Olympics was an important initial boost. Catalunya (Catalonia in English), of which Barcelona is the capital, has a historical identity going back as far as the ninth century, when the first independent County of Barcelona was established, and through the long period of domination by Castile, and even during the Franco dictatorship when a policy of cultural suppression was pursued, it proved impossible to stifle Catalan identity. With the return to democracy following the death of Franco, the various regions were allowed to consolidate their cultural identities through varying degrees of political autonomy. 4 It s no accident that Barcelona is the least Spanish city in the country. As neighbourhoods are rebuilt with panache, and locals and visitors alike pursue the latest, most fashionable sensation, there s also an enduring embrace of the things that make life worth living the daily market visit, strolling down the famous Ramblas, a lazy harbourside lunch, frenetic festival nights, a Sunday by the beach or a ticket for FC Barcelona s next big game. It s a confident, progressive city, one that is tirelessly selfrenewing while preserving all that s best about its past. The glossy mags and travel press dwell enthusiastically on its outrageous architecture, designer shopping, hip bars and vibrant cultural scene, but Barcelona is more than just this year s fad. restaurants I Bars and clubs J Entertainment K Gay and lesbian Barcelona Festive Barcelona colour section following p.208 Colour maps following p Parc Güell Casa Batlló at nightĦ INTRODUCTION WHAT TO SEE WHEN TO GO Introduction to Barcelona It s tempting to say that there s nowhere like Barcelona there s certainly not another city in Spain to touch it for sheer style, looks or energy. ![]() 9 Things not to miss Basics 17 Getting there Arrival and departure City transport City tours Information The media Travel essentials Guide 43 1 The Ramblas Barri Gòtic El Raval Sant Pere, La Ribera and Ciutadella The waterfront: from Port Vell to Diagonal Mar Montjuïc The Eixample The northern suburbs Out of the city Contents L Festivals and holidays M Sports and outdoor activities N Shopping O Children s Barcelona Contexts 255 A history of Barcelona and Catalunya Barcelona snapshot Catalan cookery Books Language 287 Pronunciation Useful words and phrases Food and drink Glossary of Catalan words Travel store 301 Small print & Index 307 Antoni Gaudí and modernisme colour section following p.80 CONTENTS Listings 173 G Accommodation H Cafés, tapas bars and. ![]()
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