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Did you know that…? Curious facts about the airport and Barcelona

Barcelona is a city full of history, culture and curiosities, and its airport is no exception! Whether you’re a frequent visitor or planning your first visit, here are some fascinating facts that are sure to surprise you:

  1. Barcelona-El Prat Airport has more than 100 years of history

Opened in 1916, the airport began as an airfield for aircraft testing. Today, it is the second largest airport in Spain and one of the busiest in Europe, handling more than 50 million passengers a year. Who knew it started so modestly!

  1. Its design bears the signature of a star architect.

Terminal 1, inaugurated in 2009, was designed by the famous architect Ricardo Bofill, known for iconic works such as Walden 7. The building combines functionality and aesthetics, making it a modern architectural gem.

  1. Why ‘El Prat’?

The airport takes its name from the municipality where it is located: El Prat de Llobregat. In Catalan, ‘prat’ means meadow, a reminder of the green landscapes that used to dominate the area before urban development.

  1. Barcelona, cradle of commercial aviation in Spain

The first commercial flight in Spain took off from Barcelona in 1927. The route connected the city with Palma de Mallorca and marked the beginning of commercial aviation in the country.

  1. Planes cross the Llobregat River!

The airport is surrounded by the Llobregat River, which was partially diverted to allow for its expansion. Today, some flights literally pass over the river on take-off or landing, offering breathtaking views.

  1. An airport full of art!

While you wait for your flight, you can enjoy contemporary works of art in different corners of the airport, including pieces by renowned Catalan artists.

  1. The Sagrada Família, visible from the sky

If you’re lucky and the weather permits, when you land in Barcelona you can enjoy an aerial view of the iconic Sagrada Familia. A perfect appetizer of the beauty that awaits you in the city.

  1. The Aerobus, the best connection to the city centre

Getting to the heart of Barcelona from the airport has never been easier. With 24-hour service 375 days a year, you can be in the city in less than 40 minutes, and now you can even enjoy exclusive content with Núvol TV on the way!