Catalonia – rich history, strong economy

With its capital city Barcelona, Catalonia (spanish: Catalunya) plays an important part in the historical and political development of the country as a "historically autonomous community in Spain". Catalonia is also described as a nation of its own due to its differences in language and cultures as well in ethnic traditions. To the north, the region's topography borders France and Andorra, separated by the Pyrenees mountains. The region's highest peak is the 3,143 metre Pica d`Estats. 

The transition from the Pyrenees mountains to the autonomous region of Catalonia is generally defined as "Catalonian Pyrenees" and "Catalonian Pre-Pyrenees". With a total area of about 32,107 square kilometres and a population of more than 7.5 million, Catalonia's four Provinces - Barcelona, Tarragona, Lleida and Girona - are among the economically strongest regions of Spain. The region's advanced industrialization can be seen as a natural consequence of specializing in the chemical, textile, pharmaceutical and automotive sectors.

The wine-growing industry deserves special mention in the agricultural sector. After France, Catalonia is the most important producer of sparkling wines. This success can be ascribed to the influence of a Mediterranean climate and a premium soil that is based in the limestone of the Pyrenees foothills.