Barcelona, one of the most visited cities, is home to the most famous monuments in Spain, some of the most iconic buildings in the world and the monuments of Barcelona have the same reputation among other European nations. The capital of Spainâs Catalonia region has its own unique atmosphere with its fabulous Gothic architecture combined with later influences of the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. Barcelonaâs architecture with its twists and turns will play with your imagination and amaze you many times during your trip. So letâs take a look at the 14 most popular monuments in Barcelona that should be on your list.
List of Monuments in Barcelona
1. La PedreraÂ
Also known as La Pedrera, Casa Mila is a popular work by Gaudi. It is located in broad Paseo de gracia and is characterized by rustic stone facade and it has a marvellous terrace with warrior shaped chimneys.This ancient monument in Barcelona is located at No 92 Passeig de Gracia at the junction point with Carrer Provenca. The term Pedrera refers to Quarry and it is another masterpiece by Antoni Gaudi. It was a fashionable home that was designed for the wealthy Mila family. It was initially constructed to house apartments and homes, but now it has been transformed as a museum. It is illuminated at night which makes it look beautiful.
Address: Passeig de GrĂ cia, 92, 08008 Barcelona, Spain.
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2. La Catedral de Barcelona
Barcelona Cathedral is also known as the Cathedral of the Saint Eulalia and Holy Cross. It is a Gothic Cathedral and the seat of Barcelona’s Archbishop. Barcelona Cathedral is the central point of interest in the Gothic Quarter. As one walks around the Cathedral, he can see some marvellous examples of Gothic architecture along with Roman Walls. The cathedral was constructed between the 13th and the 15th centuries. The roof of this religious monument in Barcelona is notable because of its gargoyles which showcases a wide range of animals. It is a hall church that is vaulted over five aisles, the outer two being divided into chapels. The Cathedral is dedicated to Eulalia of Barcelona. One may attend the masses at the church.
Address: Barcelona Cathedral, Barcelona, Spain.
3. Arc de Triomf
Also known as the Arco de Triunfo, this Spanish triumphal arch was designed as the main gate of access for the Barcelona World Fair in 1888. Now, this important monument in Barcelona leads to Ciutadella Park, which has replaced the erstwhile World Fair Grounds. Facing Passeig de Sant Joan, the Arc de Triomf is often compared to its sister arches in Paris, London, and Bucharest. Many art aficionados have studied the Arc de Triomf for its hidden structural symbolism. A gateway to 19th century Barcelona, it depicts the Catalan city welcoming the nations of the world. Atop the arch shields of 49 Spanish provinces are perched, heralding the coat of arms of the city of Barcelona. Situated at the intersection of Barcelonaâs two boulevards â Passeig de LluĂs Companys and Passeig de Sant Joan, your visit to the Arc de Triomf can be combined with a walk through the Ciutadella Park and Barcelona zoo. Right across the arch, you can see an impressive statue, honoring a former mayor of Barcelona Francesc de Paula Rius i Taulet.
Address: Arc de Triomf, Barcelona, Spain.
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4. Park GĂźell
It is one of the most famous and breathtaking locations in Barcelona. It is declared as a UNESCO world heritage site and is proclaimed as a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI. This monument of Barcelona is one of the best works of architect audi in Barcelona. It is a giant Basilica that has been under construction since 1882. Sagrada Familia is an expression which symbolizes the stone of Christian faith. The contrast of the stone colour between the back and front of the building is a wonder. You may also be able to distinguish between the old and new parts of the building. Gaudi had an active role in the construction of this Basilica, till his death in 1926, and now the architects are doing major interpretations on the design and then working on them. There is a museum inside the building. Regardless of it being incomplete, it is a wonderful building and falls in the must see categories if you are visiting Barcelona. You can also worship at the basilica.
Address: Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain.
5. La Sagrada Familia
It is one of the most famous and breathtaking locations in Barcelona. It is declared as a UNESCO world heritage site and is proclaimed as a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI. This monument of Barcelona is one of the best works of architect audi in Barcelona. It is a giant Basilica that has been under construction since 1882. Sagrada Familia is an expression which symbolizes the stone of Christian faith. The contrast of the stone colour between the back and front of the building is a wonder. You may also be able to distinguish between the old and new parts of the building. Gaudi had an active role in the construction of this Basilica, till his death in 1926, and now the architects are doing major interpretations on the design and then working on them. There is a museum inside the building. Regardless of it being incomplete, it is a wonderful building and falls in the must see categories if you are visiting Barcelona. You can also worship at the basilica.
Address: Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona, Spain.
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6. Christopher Columbus Monument
The Mirador de Colom is a 60-metre high monument in Barcelona dedicated to Italian explorer Christopher Columbus for his voyage to the Americas. The statue is made from bronze with the pillars and base representing prominent Catalan personalities. This popular historic monument in Barcelona was built for the 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition and stands till date, now a major tourist attraction of the Catalan capital.The statue of Christopher Columbus is shown to be holding out nautical charts and supposedly pointing towards Mallorca. The spot where the monument stands is said to be the site where he first landed after returning from the âNew Worldâ. It was constructed by architect GaietĂ Buigas i MonravĂ with the bronze statue being sculpted by Rafael AtchĂŠ.
Address: Columbus Monument, Barcelona, Spain.
7. Casa BatllĂł
Casa Batllo is another masterpiece by architect Gaudi and is located at Paseo de Gracia. It is a wonderful facade that leaves a long-lasting impression on the visitors because of its beautiful interiors. This iconic landmark in Barcelona is often ignored by many people as it is located on the same street as the La Pedrera, yet the building has so much more in it. It is a stunning creation and every bit of the architecture is awe-inspiring. It was also designed by Gaudi for a wealthy aristocrat in Barcelona. The lower levels were meant for the owner, while the upper ones were made for renting. The house is a museum now and a must-see the attraction.
Address: Passeig de GrĂ cia, 43, 08007 Barcelona, Spain.
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8. La PedreraÂ
Also known as La Pedrera, Casa Mila is a popular work by Gaudi. It is located in broad Paseo de gracia and is characterized by rustic stone facade and it has a marvellous terrace with warrior shaped chimneys.This ancient monument in Barcelona is located at No 92 Passeig de Gracia at the junction point with Carrer Provenca. The term Pedrera refers to Quarry and it is another masterpiece by Antoni Gaudi. It was a fashionable home that was designed for the wealthy Mila family. It was initially constructed to house apartments and homes, but now it has been transformed as a museum. It is illuminated at night which makes it look beautiful.
Address: Passeig de GrĂ cia, 92, 08008 Barcelona, Spain.
9. Placa Reial
Placa Reial is a square which lies next to La Rambla in Barcelona. It is a well known tourist attraction, and it is more popular during the night because of the famous nightclubs like Jamboree, Karma or Sidecar. Placa Reial in Barcelona is such a beautiful square, that it has been named as Reial which means royal in Catalan. The ambience here is completely elegant and it is accentuated with the fountains, beautiful street lamps and the numerous palm trees.This famous monument in Barcelona was designed by Francesc Daniel Molina in Casamajo in the 19th century. It is one of the busiest and liveliest spots in the entire city. This square is now a busy nightlife hub and also has porticoes restaurants and bars.
Address: Placa Reial, Barcelona, Spain.
10. Poble Espanyol
Built in 1929 for an international exhibition, this open-air museum resembles an actual village. Literally translating to Spanish Village, this area is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Barcelona. Situated a short distance from the iconic MontjuĂŻc Fountains, the village is a unique combination of art and architecture. Housing some incredible life-size renditions of Spanish buildings, Poble Espanyol is open all around the year. The restructured village has been made easy to explore and experience for tourists. From Andalusian settings to chapels influenced by Gothic architecture, the museum has all sorts of attractions. It was originally designed as part of the Barcelona International Exposition in 1929.Although this popular landmark in Barcelona was planned to be destroyed once the exhibition was over, the museum was preserved because of its great success. The village conducts various shows around the year including theatre, dance performances and gastronomic festivals. It can also be hired for private events like weddings. From a Dominican monastery to an Andalusian barrio, this little makeshift village is a melting pot of the varied cultures in Spain. There are many group tours, some specific to children, which walk you through the annals of history. Poble Espanyol is a wonderful place to visit for a short while.
Address: Poble Espanyol, Barcelona, Spain.
11. Parc de la Ciutadella
Located in the heart of the city, the Parc de la Ciutadella is one of the most beautiful attractions the city has to offer. At one point of time, the Park was the only green space within the entire city. This place houses the Catalonian Parliament, the city zoo, museums, a small lake and a grand fountain at its centre. One can walk around the park, picnic there or even row on the lake. Designed by Josep Fontsère, the park manages to combine many styles in one. The large fountain in the middle of the park immortalises the prodigal architect, Gaudi, drawing heavily from his work. This iconic monument in Barcelona has a fascinating history, involving many sieges and battles. At one point it even acted as a prison for political prisoners of Catalonia, under the Bourbon King. In 1998 the Parc de la Ciutadella hosted the World Exhibition, exhibiting the work of some of the greatest artists in the country.
Address: Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona, Spain.
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12. Casa Amatller
A Monderisme building in Barcelona, the Casa Amatller makes up one-third of Barcelonaâs lionised Illa de la Discòrdia, the Block of Discord. It is an architectural masterpiece, designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch. The Casa Amatller, adjacent to Gaudiâs Casa BatllĂł was designed originally as a residence for chocolatier Antoni Amatller. In 1976, the Casa Amatller was declared an artistic and historical monument in Barcelona. Now only the ground floor is open to visitors since it is the only part of the house which has still preserved the intricately designed stained glass windows of the Modernista era. Incorporating Germanic elements, this neo-Gothic mansion sports some of the most detailed sculpture compositions on its archways. Some guided tours allow you access to Antoni Amatllerâs bedroom. An art loverâs paradise, the monument has several priceless pieces adorning its walls.
Address: Casa Amatller, Barcelona, Spain.
13. Placa Dâ Espanya
Away from the city centre, in the outskirts of Barcelona, Placa D’ Espanya is a well-known tourist hub. A large square, it boasts many popular attractions including historical ones. Some of the prominent names include the National Museum of Catalan Art, the old Barcelona bullfight ring, the Magic Fountain, Caixa Forum and the architectural hub village of Poble Espanyol. From entertainment, a shopping destination and a foodie’s hub, this square is perfect for a one day visit in Barcelona.This historical landmark in Barcelona is a centre which was built in 1929 as a venue to serve the universal exhibition that was held in Spain. The square is famous for housing the former bullfighting ring which has now been converted to a grand shopping complex known as Arenas De Barcelona. Placa Dâ Espanya is easy to reach from central Barcelona within an hour or less and perfectly placed at the intersection of the main roads of Barcelona such as Gran Via and the Parallel.
Address: Placa Dâ Espanya, Barcelona, Spain.
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14. Sagrat Cor
The Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor de Jesus or the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is popularly known as the Temple of Tibidabo. Courtesy of its name is the location of the temple which is situated on the highest peak of Mount Tibidabo. With having an excellent view of Barcelona city and being a wonder of an architectural masterpiece, Sagrat Cor tops the list for every traveller making their way to Barcelona. The Temple is open throughout most of the year, but the best time to visit is during the months of Summer and Spring. There is free access to the majority of the spaces and a small fee to pay for the interiors and the lift. A monument which can be spotted from any corner of the city, Sagrat Cor is an exploration of a lifetime.This ancient monument in Barcelona has traces of neo-gothic and modern influences, and its construction was completed in 1961. Bearing aesthetic resemblance with the Basilique du Sacre Coeur de Montmartre situated in Paris, travellers are intrigued by the parallel features. The inside of the Temple is carefully divided into two floors housing highlights such as the crypt, dome, and most prominently, the Statue of Sacred Heart at the very tip. The entire monument is complemented with glass art and intricate stonework. The journey up the mountain is as beautiful as the destination, which is why Sacre Cor is a family favourite.
Address: Sagrat Cor, Barcelona, Spain.
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