The Mediterranean colours the glass facades of the hotels by the sea, whilst those in the centre subtly mix old stones with modern comforts. Between modernity and contemporaneity, Barcelona has held onto its heritage without sacrificing modernity. Look upon the incredible buildings of Antonio Gaudí or of Lluís Domènech i Montaner, or of the more recent work of Jean Nouvel, Ricardo Bofil or Oscar Tuquets who have left their mark on the city. It is precisely what gives the capital city of Catalan its charm. These are the same characteristic that Barcelona's hotels proudly hold. Design? Yes, but on the condition of maintaining a certain authenticity. Contemporary, of course! But without denying the rich architecture of the past. The challenge was, naturally, difficult, but today it must be recognised that the 700 hotels which Barcelona has to offer gives it nothing to envy of its European counterparts. The 1992 Olympic Games played an essential role in the revival of Barcelona, projecting Barcelona into the closed circle of the most visited European cities.