The County of Barcelona was a historical territory in the northeastern part of the Iberian Peninsula, primarily located in present-day Catalonia, Spain. Established in the early Middle Ages, it played a significant role in the formation of the Catalan identity and the development of the region's political structure. The county was ruled by a series of counts, with the most notable being Wilfred the Hairy, who is often credited with unifying the region. In the 12th century, the County of Barcelona became part of the Crown of Aragon, which expanded its influence across the Mediterranean. The county's capital, Barcelona, grew into a major cultural and economic center, contributing to the region's prosperity. Today, the legacy of the County of Barcelona is evident in Catalonia's distinct language, culture, and traditions.