Catalonia: what to do and see
History
Catalonia is a Spanish region situated in the north-eastern part of Spain. The capital city is Barcelona. In the distant past it was a part of the Aragon kingdom and in the 17th century a separatist movement started in Catalonia.
It became stronger in the 19th century, when people supported a movement called Carlism. Within a few years, they started to use their own language, Catalan language, in mass communication. Till the end of 1932, Catalonia was given the autonomy. Today, it is the most prosperous part of Spain.
Activities
Catalonia is a perfect place for family holidays. It has many facilities that are necessary for those going on vacation with children: babysitters with knowledge of foreign languages, sits for the children, amusement parks, special meals for children, etc. The best places for the families to stay are: Blanes, Roses, Calella, Calafell and there are several other good places as well.
With its mild climate, natural wealth, diversity of flora and fauna, high peaks of the Pyrenees and lovely sandy beaches, Catalonia is an ideal place for many sport activities and leisure. Mountain biking is a very popular sport in Catalonia.
There are over a hundred kilometers of marked routes, with a reception in the beginning of every route, where the bikers can get all necessary information or even rent a bike. Mountain biking is the ideal way of enjoying the magnificent landscape.
Catalonia also has modern ski centers and beautiful mountain lakes and spas with medicinal water. This is a place where you can try out all kinds of outdoor activities.
Cuisine
Catalan cuisine is not as famous as Basque cuisine. Nevertheless, it is very tasty and based on fish, different kinds of wine and vegetables. This area is well known for its mayonnaise made of garlic and a toast with tomato, cheese and olive oil on it.
Places for visiting
Barcelona is the capital city of Catalonia. Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, it has a population of over 1,5 million inhabitants. Once a Roman colony, today this city is famous for its beauty and art.
In Barcelona visitors can see some of Gaudi’s masterpieces, beautiful harbor called Rambla, amusement park Universal Mediterranean and the largest aquarium in Europe. However, there are many other important historical buildings such as cathedrals, palaces and museums.
Costa Brava situated on the Mediterranean Sea is a popular tourist destination in Spain. It has beautiful sandy beaches and significant cultural heritage. You can visit ancient Greek ruins, monastery of Santa Maria and Church of San Vicente.
Near Costa Brava is a lovely place called Girona. You should also visit Lloret de Mar near Barcelona, Portbou near the French border and Tossa de Mar or Roses. All the cities have beautiful beaches and important historical sites worth seeing.