The history of Barcelona

Up to 2 centuries BC – Iberian, Greek and Phoenician peoples settle in the current territory of Catalonia.

Approx. 218 BC – Occupation of the territory in the 2nd Punic War and founding of the city of Barcino.

Up to 800 AD – Changing occupation by the Romans, Carthaginians, the Germanic tribes of the Vandals, Alans and Suebi, the Visigoths, Moors and French.

801 AD – Establishment of the Spanish Marches with the county of Barcelona as the most important centre.

875 to 895 – Union of several small counties by Guifré el Pilós (Wilfred the Hairy), which are administered from Barcelona. The region of Catalonia is established later from this union.

14th and 15th centuries – The centre for maritime trade in Barcelona (Llotja de Mar) and Gothic buildings are constructed.

From 1492 – After the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus, maritime trade moves away from the Mediterranean towards the Atlantic, and the Catalonian economy suffers as a result.

Middle of 19th century – Barcelona becomes the most important industrial city in Spain and the first railway is built.

Start to middle of 20th century – Catalonia receives its autonomous status.

1986 – Spain joins the EU.

1992 – The Olympic Games take place in Barcelona.

2006 – Catalonia is allowed to refer to itself as a “nation” in its own constitution.

2010 – Pope Benedict XVI consecrates the Sagrada Família as a papal minor basilica and thus awards it the honorary Catholic title for churches.

Start of 2012 – Bullfighting is prohibited in Catalonia.