It is as varied culturally, geographically, and demographically as it is vast in size, combining indigenous, African, and European elements in a uniquely rich symbiosis. Abroad Portuguese 10. Abroad Portuguese 12. The metropolitan area, including many small industrial towns, has a population of 3.9 million. The old city lies close to the harbor.
Wide boulevards occupying the site of ancient walls surround the precinct.
The old city contains remains of the Roman settlement, a medieval cathedral and many ancient palaces and houses. The University of Barcelona was founded by Alfonso V, king of Arag n, in 1430, and is one of the largest and most important universities in Spain. There are a number of museums and galleries, including an important collection of works by Picasso, Miro and Tapies, and one of the finest museums of Romanesque art in the world. The city is a cultural center and a focus for sports activity, preeminently soccer. Perhaps its most famous building is Antonio Gaud 's unfinished Sagrada Familia church, begun in the late 19th century and characterized by its cluster of openwork spires.