The "Counts of Barcelona" were the rulers of the historical region of Barcelona in Catalonia, Spain, during the early Middle Ages. They played a significant role in the formation of the Catalan identity and the development of the region's political structure. The title was first held by the Frankish noble Wilfred the Hairy in the 9th century. Over time, the Counts of Barcelona gained power and influence, eventually merging with the Crown of Aragon in the 12th century. This union helped to expand their territory and establish a more centralized governance, leading to the rise of Catalonia as a significant political entity in the Mediterranean.