(http://msnbcmedia.msn.com/j/MSNBC/Components/Photo/_new/121122_cataloniaindependence.photoblog600.jpg)Emilio Morenatti / APSupporters of center-right Catalan Nationalist Coalition leader Artur Mas wave pro-independence "estelada" flags during a campaign meeting in Barcelona, Spain, Thursday.By The Associated PressGIRONA, Spain -- As in towns across this wealthy northeastern region, the maze-like cobblestone streets of Girona's medieval quarter are fluttering with flags in favor of Catalonia's independence.
Follow @NBCNewsWorld (http://twitter.com/NBCNewsWorld) But while the separatist dream of millions has never felt so close to becoming a reality, independence fervor is now coming up against the cold, hard facts of what breaking free could mean.
For this Spanish region famed for its trading prowess might be shut out of the European Union for years, a huge hurdle to doing business with its most important trading partners.
EU officials say an independent Catalonia would face the same membership conditions of any other candidate nation.
NBCNews