Dan Blystone 
Barcelona traces its origins over 2,000 years ago to the Roman colony called Barcino. It was founded by Emperor Augustus during the period of 15-10 BC, and the full Latin name of the colony was Iulia Augusta Faventia Paterna Barcino.
Many important figures in the history of Barcelona are known to have been Freemasons. These include Ildefons Cerdà, who designed the 19th-century extension of Barcelona called the Eixample and Lluís Companys who was President of Catalonia during the Civil War.
Torre Bellesguard, still privately owned and lived in, sits in the exclusive Sarrià-Sant Gervasi district, perched in the upper reaches of the city.
A healthy ecosystem of investors, development entities and local talent has given rise to Barcelona earning its place among Europe’s leading startup hubs.
Explore the architecture of Barcelona, from Gothic to Modernist to Art Deco, through seven unique spiral staircases.
Discover Barcelona’s best rooftop terraces. Pools, bars and restaurants with breathtaking views from the heights of Tibidabo down to Barceloneta.