In 1888 Barcelona was building big and grand ready for the International World’s Fair Exhibition of 1888. One of these big and grand monuments is the Arc de Triomf and now an iconic symbol of Barcelona.
A Monument Of Historic Importance
The Arc de Triomf Barcelona is a large arched gateway situated close to the Ciutadella Park, Barcelona. Although similar in name to the Paris monument, it is completely different both in design and purpose. The large arch stands a towering 30 meters high and 50 meters wide. An iconic symbol of Barcelona, a time when the city started to be projected on to the world’s stage. The Arc de Triomf conceived and designed as the main entrance for the 1888 Barcelona World Fair. The 1888 International Exhibition, one of the two World Fairs held in the city. This inspiring monument stands over the central walkway of Passeig de Lluis Companys. This magnificent monument designed by architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas still stands proud.
Arc de Triomf 1888 Barcelona Worlds Fair Entrance
The arch built in red brickwork in a Moorish Neo Mudéjar style and colour. The arc has some fine detail designs in bedded such as bats that were the emblem of King Juame I who saw them as lucky charms. Some intricate features of this monument include at the top the coat of arms of Barcelona and the shields of the 48 provinces of Spain displayed on both sides of the monument. The design of the arch and many other sculptured details by artists such as Père Carbonell and Manuel Fuxà who sculpted Les Fames (winged figures) some of many artistic details the monument shares.
Make Sure You Visit Ciutadella Park At The Same Time
Walking from the Arc de Triomf down the Passeig de Lluis i Companys you will reach the Parc de la Ciutadella. Just a few minutes of a pleasant walk along the scenic Passeig de Lluis i Companys you will arrive at the city’s historic 77 acre Ciutadella Park. Built over 100 years ago, this unique open space has lush greenery and a large boating lake. The large fountain designed by Josep Fontserè was aided in its design by Antoni Gaudí. The park itself gives a plesant feeling of a time gone by with its many historic features.
Within the Ciutadella Park, you will find Barcelona’s Zoo. Opened in 1892, Barcelona Zoo has been updated and modernized during the last few years and is now a very popular attraction. Visiting the Ciudatella Park and Barcelona Zoo should be done at the same time as visiting the Arc de Triomf. The proximity of the Ciutadella Park and the Arc de Triomf, will make for a very pleasant afternoon.
How to get to the Arc de Triomf in Barcelona
The Arc de Triomf has both a train station and a metro station right outside the famous monument. The metro station named after the Arc de Triomf is served by lines 1 and 5. The RENFE train station is served by commuter lines. You can arrive by the following buses – 19, 39, 40, 41, 42 and 52. On foot, the Arc de Triomf is about a 15 minute walk from the Gothic Quarter. Walking from the Plaça de Catalyuna it will take about 10 minutes.
The monument is available to view 24 hours a day. Unfortunately there is no access inside or any possibility to climb to the top of the monument. The Arc de Triomf monument would take about 10 or 15 minutes to view. If you decided to visit Ciutadella Park at the same time, it would be best to allow around two hours. If you have a full half day to spare, a visit to the Arc de Triomf, Ciutadella Park and Barcelona Zoo could all be visited.
