Sant Bertran quay. Port of Barcelona (1912) by A. CasalsMuseu Marítim de Barcelona
The Mediterranean port city of Barcelona is renowned for its iconic architecture, world class soccer team, and hosting of major global events - including the 1992 Olympic Games. Originally a Roman city, the urban area is now the fifth most populated in the EU.
It's a major transport hub, with its port being one of Europe's busiest and main airport dealing with more than 50 million passengers a year. With so many cultural highlights to enjoy, it's no wonder it's so popular with visitors. Let's take a 3D tour of some of the highlights.
La Sagrada Familia
Sagrada Familia
No 3D tour of Barcelona would be complete without a closer look at this magnificent basilica. A UNESCO World Heritage site and magnum opus of legendary architect Antoni Gaudi, building began in 1882 and is yet to be finished, including the addition of ten more spires.
The building has been described as: 'The most extraordinary personal interpretation of Gothic architecture since the Middle Ages'. And when work on the spires is completed, it will stand 170 m high, making it the tallest church building in the world.
Three more views of some of Barcelona's iconic architecture.
Plaça de la Catalunya
Plaça de la Catalunya
This large square in the heart of Barcelona is generally considered to be the city center. It's also the place where the old city and the 19th century Eixample meet, and where some of the city's main thoroughfares intersect, including La Rambla and Passeig de Gracia.
The square is well known for its fountains and statues, as well as its proximity to some of the city's most iconic attractions. It also played a key role in the Spanish Civil War as the site of the May Days confrontations.
Major sporting and international events have been held in the city, bringing it international recognition.
Cathedral of Barcelona
Cathedral of Barcelona
Not to be confused with the equally spectacular Sagrada Familia, the Cathedral of Barcelona is actually much older, with much of the major construction work taking place between the 13th and 15th centuries.
The cathedral is dedicated to Eulalia of Barcelona, a young girl who suffered martyrdom during Roman times in the city. She is one of the patron saints of the city and her body is entombed in the cathedral's crypt.
Font Magica de Montjuic
Font Magica de Montjuic
This huge ornamental fountain was constructed in 1929 for the International Exhibition and has become one of the city's most popular attractions. Each year a large light and firework spectacular takes place here to close the city's main festival.
The fountain is located at the end of the Avinguda Reina Maria Cristina close to the Palau Nacional. Even when not lit up, the spot offers spectacular views across the city, from the Plaça Espanya to the Tibidabo hill.
More views of the city - past and present.
Mirador de Colom
Mirador de Colom
The Mirador de Colom, designed by Gaietà Buïgas, is located at the end of Barcelona's Rambla, close to the sea. It was built in 1888 to mark the Universal Exhibition as a tribute to Christopher Columbus. It features a 51m high cast iron column and viewing gallery.
Look north to the Gothic Quarter, cathedral, and bustling Rambla. To the east, you can follow the coastline to the Olympic Marina. To the south stands Montjuïc Hill, with its castle. To the west is the Collserola Natural Park, the vast green lungs of the city.
[The Port of Barcelona with the European squadrons for the Barcelona World Fair in 1888] (1888) by Emili Sivillà i TorresMuseu Marítim de Barcelona
Want to know more?
You can discover more about the naval history of this incredible city here.
