The summer warmth and crystal-clear blue waters of Barcelona's beaches draw many to the major urban centre in northeast Spain throughout the summer months. With seven city beaches, totalling almost three miles of sand and surf, it's easy to see why many travellers take the trip to the capital of Catalonia to soak up the sun.
Further within the city, there are many more things to see and do that keep tourists coming to the Spanish city. The cultural roots of Barcelona stretch back thousands of years, with the local flavour affected by the influence of regional Catalonia and national Spanish traditions, such as music, performance and cuisine.
The architecture of the city also reflects its diverse history. A walk through the city's Barri Gótic, or Gothic Quarter, which comprises what was the Roman centre of the city impresses many a visitor. The labyrinth of tiny lanes in the neighbourhood give way to squares of urban activity, and you'll find the decadent royal residences of Catalan monarchs, as well as remains of Roman structures, including a temple of Augustus. The current government of Catalan is still headquartered here and there are a number of stunning Gothic churches, such as the Catedral de Barcelona, throughout.
When guests are greeted by the spectacular fountain of Plaça de Catalunya, they know they've arrived to a special place of the city. Marrying the Ciutat Vella, or old town, with Eixample, a section of the city built in the 19th century, the public square now hosts a number of shopping destinations and financial centres, as well as magnificent architecture. Deeper in Eixample, tourists will find examples of the finest Catalan Art Nouveau, with the under-construction masterpiece Sagrada Família its centrepiece.
Aside from the city's wondrous facades, Barcelona also offers world-renowned performance theatre and opera at the Gran Teatre Del Liceu, but also more avant-garde works at places like Teatre L'Antic. Art museums in Barcelona have plenty to offer tourists as well, as the city counts Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí as former resident and exhibiting early works here.
A trip to Catalonia wouldn't be complete without sampling the region's delicious cuisine. The region is ripe with quality vegetables and well-placed for netting fresh fish, reflected in traditional dishes such as Escalivada, grilled aubergine, red peppers and tomatoes, and Catalan-style cod, which is served with raisins and pine nuts.
Much like its architecture and cuisine, the beauty of Barcelona is timeless, which is why tourists time and time again book flights to Barcelona to enjoy their summer holidays and experience the best of Spain.
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