International Paralympic Committee (IPC) President Sir Philip Craven was among those present along with members of the organisation's Governing Board.

They were joined by representatives of Spanish and Catalan national and sporting authorities as well as Paralympians who competed at the Games.

"Barcelona 1992 was the Paralympic Games that acted as a catalyst to the Paralympic Movement's growth," said Sir Philip.

"They changed the Movement forever and many of the IPC Governing Board have outstanding memories of what took place there either as an athlete, administrator or spectator. 

"It's wonderful to be back in this great city celebrating the 25th anniversary."

A total of 3,001 athletes spanning 83 countries participated in 431 medal events across 15 sports at Barcelona 1992.

More than 1.5 million spectators attended the 12 days of competition.

It also marked the first Paralympic Games to be broadcast on television.

The special emblem, shown above, was unveiled to coincide with the anniversary.

Sir Philip, who is due to step-down after 16 years as IPC President later this year, also hailed how the Olympic and Paralympic Games had transformed the city of Barcelona.

"With the construction of the Village and the Olympic Port, the city centre opened to the sea," the Briton added.

"Today the city is a hugely popular tourist destination and a global blueprint for how a city can improve its accessibility for all.

"I think few would argue that Barcelona 1992 had more impact on the Paralympic Movement than any Games before or after.

"When a city wins the right to stage the Games, it cannot make absolutely everything accessible in the seven years it has to plan and prepare for the Opening Ceremony.

"Barcelona had a good go however, but what has struck me the most is that accessibility improvements have continued ever since the Games finished.

"When I came here in 2002, I didn't realise until leaving just how easy it had been for me to get around in my wheelchair. 

"Likewise, all members of the IPC Governing Board meeting in Barcelona this week have been blown away at the city’s infrastructure and the legacy the 1992 Games left for this city."