Barcelona is one of the biggest cities in Spain. It is also a prominent European destination. It is renowned for its scenic locales and breathtaking beauty. Besides, it ranks fourth in the continent behind only London, Paris, and Frankfurt as a viable destination to set up a new business venture. A multicultural city, it is also 48th most populated city in the world. A hub for local and international travelers, about 268,000 travelers flock to its premises each week. While the world knows it as a peaceful and fun loving city, there is a different side to it as well. Let us look at some intriguing facts about this plush and spectacular city.

Barcelona beaches are artificial
No doubt, that the city offers an incredible milieu for a perfect holiday, what most of us are unaware about is that the beaches here are artificial. No beaches existed in the city until the year 1992. However, since it was to host the Olympic Games that year, beaches were created. This was done to promote seaside as a leisure spot. Today, it boasts of a four and a half kilometers of sandy beaches that are a hit with all.

Barcelona drivers are amongst the worst in the world
Though the city is magnificent in every way, the fact of the matter is that you will have to watch out while driving around its streets. This is because the city is prone to accidents every nineteen seconds. If statistics are to be believed, Barcelona drivers are amongst the worst in the world. The accident rate here rises tremendously on the weekends when an accident is reported every ten seconds! Hence, it is advised to walk in the city than to risk your life at the wheels!

World Book Day is an inspiration from the city
St. Georges Day is celebrated with fervor and zest in this Spanish city. As a part of the tradition, each year people shower their friends and family with roses and books on this day. The United Nations took cue from this strange city habit with UNESCO declaring April 23 as the International Day of Books.

Street Portal de l’Àngel is a record setter
Unbelievable but true, Portal de l’Àngel is the most walked down street in the whole world. Reports suggest that about 3,500 people flock to this street every single hour thus setting a unique record of sorts. When in town, do not forget to come here for a stroll and become a part of history!

The Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família is an unfinished church
The construction of Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, a Roman Catholic Church in the city began in the year 1982 and still remains unfinished! Antoni Gaudi, a famous architect, who worked on it until his death in 1926, designed this church. The work then progressed at snail’s pace and it is still under construction. The expected completion date is the year 2026, which also marks Gaudi’s 100th death anniversary. This church however, has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.