Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf, located between the Passeig de Lluís Companys and the Passeig de Sant Joan, was not constructed in celebration of any military triumph or battle won by the city. So, its history as a monument is neither epic nor military in nature. Rather, it was constructed to be used as the main entrance to the Universal Exposition which was celebrated in Barcelona in 1888.

Barcelona's Arc de Triomf

Its architect, Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, was inpsired by the neo-Mudéjar style in his design of this 30 meter high monument. The exposed brick structure- a style rarely recreated in Barcelona since, features a varied selection of relief sculptures that depict various scenes and metaphors for industry, craftsmanship and business.

Josep Reynés, comissioned to create the main frieze of the Arc, created a representation of the city of Barcelona welcoming visitors to the Exhibition. With regards to the rear frieze, renowned Catalan sculptor Josep Llimona captured a scene of the Exhibition’s award ceremony.

The Arc de Triomf is an emblematic monumento of the city, and is a site that should not be missed. It’s located in a central neighbourhood of Barcelona, within walking distance of Plaça Catalunya, so it’s accessibility is easy for all visitors to the city center. Further, it is the namesake of a stop on the Line 1 (red) of the Barcelona metro. This stop, true to its name, leaves you at the base of this majestic Arc.

Finally, the Arc de Triomf is your gateway to the Parc de la Ciutadella – “the garden of the Barcelonins”- another emblematic sight of the city and an oasis of tranquillity and calm in the swarming metropolitan. Don’t miss out on either of these sights. Check what’s available, and reserve your Barcelona apartment in the touristic heart of the city, today.