The Arc de Triomf (in Spanish, Arco de Triunfo) is a colorful brick triumphal arch from 1888. Designed by the modernist architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, it is built in the Neo-Moorish style. The triumphal arch of Barcelona is definitely worth seeing. The arch is not only a symbol of the city but also a piece of history.
What to See and Do at the Arc de Triomf
Built with colorful brickwork in Mudejar style, the Arc de Triomf of Barcelona is 30 meters high and adorned with a large number of sculptures and reliefs. The front decoration by Josep Reynés depicts how the city of Barcelona welcomes visitors. The other side, designed by Josep Llimona, shows an award ceremony.
The arch is decorated with a stone sculpture of the coat of arms of the provinces of Spain under a crown. The arch is also adorned with twelve statues of women symbolizing fame. On the narrow sides, one side depicts agriculture, commerce, and industry, and the other side science and art. On the outside, there are two angels on each side, one angel carrying a laurel wreath and the other playing the trumpet.
Viewing the Arc de Triomf from Inside
Once a year, it is possible to peek inside the pillars of the Arc de Triomf and stand on top of this triumphal arch. This only happens during the 48h Open House in Barcelona, an event where the doors of many buildings in Barcelona that are otherwise closed open to the public for an entire weekend. A unique opportunity to get to know this monument from the inside!
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Walking Promenades
The Arc de Triomf is a gigantic construction at the intersection of two of the most beautiful promenades in the city: Passeig de Lluís Companys and Passeig de Sant Joan. These two promenades are definitely worth a leisurely stroll.
Parc de la Ciutadella
In addition, Parc de la Ciutadella is very close by, making a visit to the Arc de Triomf very easy to combine with a visit to Ciutadella Park. So, take a walk along the green boulevard on your way to Parc de la Ciutadella. In Parc de la Ciutadella, you would find tranquility next to the lake and the large fountain with a waterfall, the symbols this park is known for. In addition, in Parc de la Ciutadella, you will find the Barcelona Zoo and various museums and government buildings.
👉 Read more about Parc de la Ciutadella here.
History of the Arc de Triomf
The Arc de Triomf was built in 1888 for the 1888 World’s Fair, which took place in Parc de la Ciutadella. The Arc de Triomf, located at the end of a wide promenade, Passeig Lluís Companys, served as the main entrance to the exhibition.
Unlike other triumphal arches, this one does not have a military character. The arch, designed by Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas in the Neo-Moorish style, was erected for a completely different kind of triumph. The fact that the 1888 World’s Fair came to Barcelona was a significant victory for the city. This major event had to be celebrated, and therefore the triumphal arch Arc de Triomf was built.
How to Get to the Arc de Triomf
The Arc de Triomf is located near Parc de la Ciutadella, at the intersection of Passeig de Lluís Companys and Passeig de Sant Joan, near the Arc de Triomf metro station (L1).
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Useful information
Price: Free.
Opening Hours: Not applicable.
Address: Passeig de Sant Joan, 4 08010 Barcelona
Public Transport:
Metro: Arc de Triomf (L1)
Bus: 19, H16, V19, N4, N11, B20, B25
Tram: Wellington (T4), Marina (T4)
Train: Arc de Triomf (R1, R3, R4)
