Barcelona Aquarium Facts: Fascinating Insights & Information

Visit this extraordinary destination that invites you to discover the fascinating world beneath the waves. Located along the vibrant coastline of Barcelona, Spain, this renowned marine sanctuary offers a captivating journey through diverse aquatic ecosystems and encourages you to explore the delicate balance of marine ecosystems and marine conservation.

Interesting Facts About Barcelona Aquarium

1. Diversity of marine life

The Barcelona Aquarium boasts an impressive collection of over 11,000 fish, representing approximately 600 different species from around the world. Visitors can witness the wonders of the Mediterranean Sea, encountering native species like the grouper, gilthead sea bream, and many more.

2. Digital modernization

The Barcelona Aquarium is taking a step forward by digitizing its content and showcasing new features, including its impressive digital floor entrance and its new immersive room, which takes visitors to the marine world's most extreme depths.

3. Collaboration with universities

The Barcelona Aquarium actively engages in collaborations with universities to promote scientific exploration and knowledge exchange. Through partnerships with marine biology and conservation programs, the aquarium aims to foster a deeper understanding of marine life and conservation.

4. Experience with sharks

Visitors can enjoy a unique and exciting encounter with sharks. This ranges from cage diving to the exceptional opportunity to dive directly into the Oceanarium, surrounded by rays, moray eels, groupers, and bull and grey reef sharks. These exciting experiences offer a rare and enriching perspective on the world of sharks.

5. Marine invertebrates

The Barcelona Aquarium showcases marine invertebrates in a specialized tanks. These animals include arthropods, crustaceans such as sea spiders, hermit crabs, and lobsters, as well as sponges, cnidarians, starfish, sea urchins, and brittle stars. This exhibit allows visitors to discover the enormous diversity and complexity of the marine invertebrate world.

6. The Oceanarium

The aquarium boasts a spectacular Oceanarium, which is 36 meters wide, 5 meters (16 feet) deep and holds a staggering 4 million liters (1 million gallons) of seawater. This extraordinary attraction provides visitors with a front-row seat to observe a vast array of marine species up close, including majestic bull sharks, rays, moray eels, gilthead seabream, and hundreds of other fish.

Tropical fish swimming among plants in a freshwater aquarium with mangrove roots.

7. Planeta Aqua

The Planeta Aqua exhibition covers around 4,000 square meters and explores how marine species and animals adapt to extreme conditions, including the icy waters, the darkness of the deep sea, or to warm tropical environments. You'll also find a full sperm whale model which houses a dramatic jellyfish display and exhibits on life at different depths.

8. Mediterranean species

As the world's largest aquarium dedicated to the Mediterranean, the Barcelona Aquarium allows visitors to discover and appreciate the diverse ecosystem that flourishes in this region. Its tour showcases the unique beauty and importance of local species to the overall balance of the marine ecosystem.

9. Educational programs

Barcelona Aquarium is committed to environmental education. It offers educational programs tailored for schools and families, providing valuable insights into marine conservation, ecosystem dynamics, and the importance of preserving our oceans for future generations.

10. Conservation efforts

Barcelona Aquarium contributes to the protection and preservation of marine ecosystems. Through research, awareness campaigns, and sustainable practices, the aquarium plays a vital role in raising consciousness about environmental challenges and inspiring visitors to take action.

Frequently Asked Questions About Barcelona Aquarium

What is the Barcelona Aquarium known for?

Barcelona Aquarium is known for its expansive Oceanarium, showcasing a diverse array of marine species in a mesmerizing underwater tunnel.

When was the Barcelona Aquarium built?

Barcelona Aquarium was built and opened to the public on September 8, 1995.

When is the Barcelona Aquarium open?

It is open every day of the year. Read more about timings and opening hours here.

Is Barcelona Aquarium accessible to people with disabilities?

Yes, it is completely accessible to people with disabilities

Can I visit the Barcelona Aquarium with a pet?

With the exception of service animals, pets are generally not allowed inside Barcelona Aquarium.

Are there storage facilities for bags and belongings?

Yes, Barcelona Aquarium offers storage lockers or facilities where visitors can securely store their bags and belongings during their visit.

Are there dining options available inside the aquarium?

Yes, Barcelona Aquarium features a restaurant where visitors can enjoy a meal or snack with a view of the marine exhibits.

Are there educational programs available for children and schools?

Yes, Barcelona Aquarium offers educational programs specifically designed for children and schools.

Is Barcelona Aquarium involved in conservation efforts?

Yes, Barcelona Aquarium actively participates in conservation initiatives and works closely with research institutions to contribute to marine conservation efforts.