Blessed with rich and fertile soil, an excellent harbor, and a hardworking population, Barcelona has always been prosperous. When Madrid was still a dusty Castilian backwater, Barcelona was a powerful, diverse capital, influenced by the empires that had their eye on this Mediterranean jewel. Rome, North African Muslims, the Visigoths, Charlemagne-era France, and Castile all overran Barcelona, and each left a unique and indelible mark on the region's identity.
The Catalans themselves are also marked by a distinct character. In their own words, they are a mixture of seny (common sense) and rauxa (which can best be translated as being predisposed to moments of madness). These two poles are evident in almost every aspect of Barcelonese life: a group of suited businesspeople singing in a local bar, an elegant street that features a bizarre piece of sculpture, or the entire city stopping to watch their beloved soccer team, Barça, compete against their archrivals, Madrid. They liken Barcelona to a modern and vibrant European metropolis with an enormous respect for tradition and culture.
Landmark Gothic buildings and world-class museums fill the historic city of Barcelona, while the whimsical creations of the moderniste movement and cutting-edge contemporary architecture highlight the newer part of town. And an array of nightlife (Barcelona is a big party spot) and shopping possibilities, plus nearby wineries, ensures that you'll be entertained round-the-clock. It makes for some serious sightseeing; you'll need plenty of time not only to take everything in but to appreciate the city's unique, hidden charm.
The aim of this section is to introduce you to Barcelon's various multi-faceted barris, or districts, and to advise on how to get around by public transport (an excellent value) as well as on foot.
Officer! Officer!
There are four police forces in Catalonia: the Guardia Urbana (whose main responsibility is traffic), the Policía Nacional (National Police), the Guardia Civil (Civil Guard), and the Mossos d'Escuadra (Catalonia's autonomous police force). Tourists are more likely to deal with the latter at the Turisme-Atenció station, Les Ramblas 43 (tel. 93-344-13-00). It's open 24 hours, and there are officers who speak various languages. This is where you can report petty theft for insurance purposes.
