Gastronomy of Catalonia

The aim of the thesis is to point out the importance of Catalan gastronomy to tourism in both Catalonia and Spain as a whole country. First, the background of gastronomy is established explaining the key terms and their relations and also describing the role gastronomy plays in tourism. Next, the Catalonia has been described as a destination of the tourism industry. Not only does the description include fundamental information about Spain and Catalonia, but it also provides statistics of incoming tourism. The next step is the characterization of the Catalan gastronomy itself and it has been conveyed by elaborating on it from a few different perspectives. First, the traditional food, served in this area, is introduced and it is followed by characterization of the wine-producing regions. Furthermore, it presents the local dining habits and traditions together with some of the most important gastronomic festivals in the region. Finally, since there are many gastronomic trails situated in Catalonia, three of them have been selected as a case study and used for further illustration of their role for tourism in Catalonia and extension of the characterization of Catalan gastronomy. In summary, the Catalan gastronomy is very specific, strongly based on tradition and health and therefore it is notably appealing to current visitors. Consequently, I conclude that Catalan gastronomy undoubtedly is of importance to tourism in Catalonia and Spain.