No trip to Europe would be complete without a visit to historical sites in Barcelona. A city steeped in culture, Barcelona traces its history back to 230 BC, when it was part of the Catalonia Empire. The city was founded by the Carthaginians, but conquered by the Romans and became part of the Roman Empire. Barcelona was absorbed by various empires throughout the years, and eventually became part of what we now call Spain in the 15th century. As you might expect, this rich history has left Barcelona with numerous sites that are 'must sees' when traveling through Spain. Following are a few historic buildings and monuments to visit in Barcelona.

Monument a Colom
This site, the Christopher Columbus Monument, is located in Barcelona's Old City District. The statue towers 200 feet high and is located at the end of La Rambla Avenue. This is the spot where Columbus stepped ashore in 1493 upon returning to Spain from his historic trip to discover the New World.

Arc del Triomf
This red brick arch resembles the famous archways of ancient Rome. Built by Josep Vilaseca, the Arc del Triomf was constructed to be the entrance for the Universal Exposition of 1888. The designs on this monument, located in the northeast section of Barcelona, commemorate the conquest of the Moors in 1229 AD.

La Sagrada Familia
One of the foremost landmarks in Barcelona, this building was the work of master architect Antoni Gaudi. Generally regarded as awe-inspiring, La Sagrada Familia is one of the most visited sites in Barcelona. Known for his Catalan Modernism style of architecture, Gaudi unfortunately passed away in 1926 before completing La Sagrada Familia. Construction on this cathedral began in 1882. Its four towers shoot up into the sky, laced with complex carvings on the spires.

Casa Mila
Another example of Gaudi's modernistic approach to architecture is seen in the Casa Mila. Although it was not readily appreciated when it was constructed - it was actually nicknamed La Pedrera, which means Stone Quarry, because of its facade made of uneven grey stone that creates a wave effect and also has intricate wrought-iron balconies - the building was eventually acclaimed as a World Heritage Site and is internationally celebrated as one of Gaudi's most interesting creations.

Palau Reial Major
Part of the Historical Museum of the City, Palau Reial Major is the former residence of the Royal Family of Catalonia. It is a museum complex that takes visitors through a historical tour of Roman, Visigothic, and Medieval Barcelona. A couple of rooms are outstanding, and not to be missed - the Salo del Tinell and the Chapel of Santa Agata, both built in the 14th century.

Cathedral of Barcelona
An impressive structure located in the Gothic Quarter, the Cathedral of Barcelona was constructed in the 14th century, with the facade added in the 19th century. It was constructed on former worship grounds of the Romans. It is dedicated to Saint Eulalia, the patron saint of Barcelona. The cathedral is an example of Catalonian Gothic architecture, with the steeples overlooking a plaza.

Torre de Collserola
The Collserola Tower was constructed especially for the Olympics, which Barcelona hosted in 1992. There is an observation deck as well as a restaurant. It is regarded as a one of the best examples of contemporary architecture in Barcelona.

These are merely the tip of the iceberg of historic buildings and monuments that are worthy of your time when visiting Barcelona. It would take months, if not years, to see all the attractions and absorb the culture of this city.

Guest post from Bailey Harris. Bailey writes about insurance quotes for InsuranceQuotes.org.