Barcelona has been used as the setting for many films, many of which recount the story of Spanish figures who have emerged through history. One of these which had great success was 'Salvador'; the flim based on the life of Salvador Puig Antich, a young arnarchist who was part of MIL. He spent his whole life fighting for freedom even though he was acutely aware of the repercussions of his actions. This made him a hero among his peers and a symbo of an entire generation. His fate was not unexpected and he was executed under the Francoist regime for killing a police officer.

The film was shot principally in Barcelona in 2005, the director used Valencia and Toulouse as well. The polemic nature of the content of the film made it stand out as the Franco regime is barely touched on in cinematography due to the sensitivity regarding it. Plus the the Catalan-British partnership of the film made it a work of art and it premiered in Cannes on the 23rd May 2006.

As Salvador grew up and lived in Barcelona they have stuck very true to history and filmed in the spots that he was known for frequenting. The Gothic Quater, Montjuïc Park and the Cathedral among other places. This is a great excuse to combine tourism and Spanish history with a touch of excitment as you retrace the steps of one of the most influential figures to emerge from the Franco regime.

Visit www.barcelonamovie.com to map out your tour of Salvador and other films.

Visiting the city? Rent flats Barcelona here.