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Arc de Triomf Barcelona | Highlings, Getting There & More

Arc de Triomf Barcelona

There are plenty of famous arches in the world’s architecture, but Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf is quite different from its predecessors, from its size alone. The Arc de Triomf in Barcelona is one of the most beautiful monuments that you could spot in the entire city. Situated between Paseo de Lluis Companys, Paseo de San Juan, and San Pedro roundabout, the structure was initially built as the main entrance to the World Exhibition which was conducted in 1888 in the city, which was held in Citadel Park. Rather than a military one, this is a civil monument. Want to discover more about this fascinating landmark? Read on!

Why Visit Arc de Triomf Barcelona?

Arc de Triomf barcelona
  • The Moorish-inspired style of ‘Neo-Mudejar’ is what makes the arch stand out, especially the unmissable red bricks appearing in the blue Barcelona skies. 
  • Built at the top of Paseo de Lluis Companys, it was used as an entrance to the 1888 Barcelona Universal World Fair, and this definitely deserves regard by all those visiting Barcelona. 
  • The beautiful white sculptures and carvings make it a sight to be beheld. 
  • The intricate art holds a great amount of symbolic value for the structure in Barcelona and discovering symbolism is in itself a whole new experience that is worth having.

Why was the Arc de Triomf built in Barcelona?

The Arc de Triomf in Barcelona is a triumphal arch which was built by architect Josep Vilaseca I Casanovas as the gateway to the Barcelona World Fair in 1888, which was held in the Parc de la Ciutadella. This monument is classical in design and the proportions and features are truly astounding. The decorative finishes of the structure are replete with symbolism and are undoubtedly one of the most iconic landmarks in Barcelona.

Arc de Triomf Barcelona Highlights

1. The Bats on the Arc de Triomf

You will be able to identify some stone bats that are attached to the triumphal arch of Arc de Triomf, Barcelona. This was the emblem of King Jaume I, under whom the city flourished economically and even liberated Valencia, Mallorca, and Menorca from the Moors. To date, the bat is the emblem of Valencia and will be found in various structures of Modernism.

2. Music Festivals

There are numerous live music events and concerts held at Arc de Triomf during the festival, that you will be spoilt for choice. The location attracts some of the top bands from around the globe. Various styles of music, may it be jazz, classical, or funk bands, the spot usually stages important concerts with famous groups from Spain and across various cities.

3. Marathons & Other Events

The half-marathon, also known as the Mitja Marato de Barcelona is the city’s second-largest running event. The route taken by the runners is from the Arc de Triomf, from the old town to the Placa Catalunya. Later goes down the Ramblas and eventually goes through the modernist Eixample district and is back to the Arc de Triomf. This is a very interesting and varied street circuit that is marked out. There is so much that the place has to offer and is too hard a miss!

Plan Your Visit To Arc de Triomf Barcelona

Arc de Triomf barcelona

The Arc de Triomf in Barcelona is freely accessible 24/7 by all and is open to the public. It can only be visited from the outside.

arc de triomf barcelona

Once you are done visiting Arc de Triomf, stop by at a restaurant to have an exotic cuisine of the area.

  • 65 Degrees Barcelona: Provides fusion dishes and creative tapas that are blended together with an artistic touch. Enjoy brunch, dinner, and cocktails.
  • Casa Rafols: Tapas and Spanish cuisines made from local ingredients, in a trendy and vintage 100-year-old building. 
  • Elsa y Fred: The restaurant prepares great authentic dishes with fresh and quality products that vary by season. Serves tapas, grills, desserts amid warm décor.   
  • Taco Alto: This place emulates the taquerias and traditional stalls in Mexico, but with a modern and revamped touch. 
arc de triomf barcelona

Make the most of your trip by visiting these famous attractions near Arc de Triomf Barcelona.

Interesting Facts about Arc de Triomf Barcelona

  • The thought behind building the Arc de Triomf was to build it as the gateway to a fair that was held in the Parc de la Ciutadella. 
  • The structure of Arc de Triomf is classical in shape. It features the ground-breaking sculptural and finishes replete with symbolism. 
  • The red bricks and a row of friezes used as decorative borders around the arch make it one of the most iconic landmarks of Barcelona. 
  • While looking from the Park de la Ciutadella to the Triumphal Arch, you can see that the gate points towards the modern Eixample district. 

Visitor Tips

  • Only a limited parking facility is available.
  • The most popular time to visit Arc de Triomf is from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. 
  • You will spend an average time of 1 hour at the attraction. 
  • Monday, Fridays, and Sundays are the busiest days at Arc de Triomf. 
  • Since the Columbus Monument and Ciutadella Park are nearby, you can visit these attractions before or after your visit to Arc de Triomf, based on your convenience. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Arc de Triomf Barcelona

Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf is a triumphal arch in the city and was built by architect Josep Vilaseca I Casanovas as the main entry gate for the Barcelona World Fair in 1888.