BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 12 (Xinhua) -- Barcelona on Thursday began its celebrations as the UNESCO World Capital of Architecture 2026, with a program of over 1,500 activities that showcase the Spanish city's rich architectural heritage.
For 10 months, every district will take center stage with activities that bring architecture closer to its immediate surroundings, said the Barcelona City Council.
Activities will include guided tours, workshops, debates, conferences, exhibitions and cultural performances for the public, schools and professionals across the city and the wider region.
A highlight is the UIA World Congress of Architects, scheduled for June 28 to July 2, which will draw thousands of international professionals to Barcelona, making it the only city to host the industry event twice.
Barcelona receives more than 12 million visitors per year for both business and pleasure, according to the city council. The city itself is home to 1.73 million people, 26.4 percent of whom are foreign nationals. ■
