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30m high by 28m wide this colossal gate, was built for the World Fair in 1888. Today there is a ton of pigeon protection at the top because falling off a ladder at that height is "no bueno!" Even Humpty dumpy wouldn't survive. Anyway, we stopped along this wonderful structure on our cycling tour. There was a couple singing a love song underneath to welcoming visitors.
The Arc de Triomf of Barcelona's history dates back to 1888, when it was built to welcome visitors to the Universal Exposition, not to be confused with the Arc de Triomphe of Paris and similar structures around the world. Differences between Paris include the style, with Barcelona's arch being red, the style as Barcelona's arch features a neo-Mudejar style, and the fact here it's in a fully pedestrianised area, so it isn't full of tourists cutting across the road who are unaware of the underpass like in Paris, the latter I think is a huge benefit compared to Paris, although I do prefer the french structure in general. The red colour of the arch stands out, along Parc de la Ciutadella, making it a fairly pretty area to sit back and relax and spend some time, although it does feel very touristy at the same time. Benches are available which have views of the arch. There is a Metro station of the same nearby, which is handy if visiting the arch and planning to continue your journey around the city with ease. While I don't think it's much better than similar structures which tend to exist in cities across Europe, it's certainly one of the main attractions to visit when in Barcelona and worth a visit for sure. 4*
What a beautiful Arc - this Arc de Triomf, it's a little bit far from La Rambla and Sagrada Familia but it's so worth it to come to this park to experience this beautiful open space. It's hard to believe that Spain and Portugal were world powers up until the late 1800s. They were like the astronauts of today - sailing to unknown worlds and territories. Cuba, Mexico, Central and South America and the Philippines, etc., their triumphs were vast and wide. This park, I suppose, is a celebration of all that, the Arc was built in 1888. I just recently visited the Dewey monument in Union Square (San Fran), and it marks the US Navy defeating the Spanish armada in Manila Bay, in 1898. Thus, loosening their global grip and lessening their military victories. Still, as of today, Spain has the 14th largest GDP, so economically, it's still very relevant. Glad to celebrate my Spanish roots (5% per 23 and me) and it was cool to see all the similarities between the Philippines and Spain. In fact, they fast track citizenship for Filipinos wishing to immigrate, due to this historical relationship. But I obviously digress, as I often do, so come to this park and take it all in, the architecture, the history, the people, this Arc of Triomf.
An absolutely stunning arch that's located at the westside entrance of Parc de Ciutadella. The arch was constructed by architect Josep Vilaseca and served as the entrance for the 1888 Universal Expedition (Spain's first international World's Fair). It is comprised of beautiful red brick and a row of decorative friezes as well as stone bats that represent the emblem of King Jaume I. This part of the park is always bustling with locals and tourists. People can be seen regularly posing near the arch. It makes sense as it's a truly beautiful sight. This is an excellent spot to embark on a leisurely walk or even to rest and take in the pretty views. It's bright and beautiful during the day, but I must admit that it's even more gorgeous at night. It's almost as if it's glowing in the dark. I must have passed by this arch about 5 or 6 times during my visit, and it was intentional most of the time. It served as a great resting spot that was also fun for people watching. You're pretty much destined to pass by Arc de Triomf at some point while in Barcelona. But if not, make sure that you carve out some time to see this beauty. It's a really stunning sight.
Seems every major city has one. So how do you pass up this one ? It's at the northwest entrance to the Ciutadella Park facing Passeig de Sant Joan. A grand way to enter a beautiful area of Barcelona. In 1888 for Barcelona World Fair, Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas built the arch as the main gate. Today it crosses over the wide central promenade of the Passeig de Lluís Companys, leading to the Ciutadella Park that was once the site of the world fair. Unlike other Arcs this one is created from red brick and truly stands out. Grab a seat in the shade in the park and peer through the arc at newer Barcelona from the old world-and enjoy.
First time in Barcelona so I wanted to check out all the sites and see almost everything that they have to offer and one of the popular hang-out spots is at the Arc De Triomf. I was amazed at how big and how many people are just hanging around and sitting with their friends just hanging out. You can see people running, walking, and just sitting down in the areas around it. It's a must-stop just to see how beautiful it is!
"Every relationship ends, until maybe you find one that lasts forever." - Penélope Cruz Hola! I admit I have an Arc fetish! Hoy! And maybe a Penélope one too! Arc de Triomf in Barcelona is perhaps one of my favorites or at least tied with Napoléon's Arc in Paris, which is second only to the majestic Arc de Triomphe also in Paris. Come follow me on my journey... Quiero ser tu heroe... Barcelona is one of my favorite European cities to just wander the streets. Of course it doesn't help everyone speaks to me in Espanol even though English is my first language and I never got above the 2nd grade in Spanish! I must sound dumb Jaja!:D Barcelona is filled with so much history, whimsical buildings by Antoni Gaudí, delicious Spanish tapas on every street corner, vintage vespas running around endlessly, and that one majestic red Arc called the "Gateway to the World". Arc de Triomf de Barcelona is a wonder to behold. Built for the 1888 Barcelona World's Fair, so of course the name stuck. Standing at 100 feet tall and 164 feet wide it's one of the largest Arcs in the world! The Neo-Mudéjar or Moorish Revival architecture is a sight you'll never forget. The front frieze contains the stone sculpture Barcelona rep les nacions (Catalan for "Barcelona welcomes the nations"). My favorites are the bats - The two pillars of the Arc feature bats carved in stone, which were the emblem of King Jaume I, who ruled over a period of prosperity in Barcelona. These bats are considered to be lucky in Barcelona! How amazing is this, right?! In the end, a visit to Barcelona without walking to, around, and through Arc de Triomf de Barcelona is simply no bueno. If staying in Barcelona, I highly recommend walking to this majestic landmark, to fully capture the essence of Spaniard lifesyle, as you pass the cafés, historic buildings, and everyday people just enjoying life. I walked under it from the Gothic Quarter to La Sagrada Familia with Penélope! Quiero ser tu heroe. Let me be your hero;)
A Landmark from Exposició Universal de Barcelona I was just showing off my Catalan; that means "Barcelona Universal Exposition"! :-) Arc de Triomfn or Triumphal Arch was built in 1888 as the main access gate to the World Fair by Catalan architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas. It is a redbrick structure and if you pass under it and walk all the way through Passeig de Lluís Companys, you'll end up in Parc de la Ciutadella which was built over the former site of the world fair. The arc is a popular spot for tourists, like yours truly, who want to snap photos of themselves with the a recognizable landmark in the back drop.
I didn't even realize Barcelona had an Arc de Triomf until I ran smack dab into it. I now think almost every major city in Europe might have one... I'm a fan of beautiful architecture and this small yet mighty landmark didn't disappoint. With intricate details in every inch of the structure, I was busy marveling at its unique beauty for nearly an hour. I know not of its history, but couldn't help but to feel some Roman influence. Again, this isn't a grand tourist site, just a simple albeit really cool and free stop. If you're taking the metro, there is a specific stop for Arc de Triomf.
Worth a stop. I am a fan of arches. We happened here as walking around the town. I don't know the history of the arch nor did I care our tour gave us so much history I was glad you just walk around and explore on my own . Don't know if it was somehow trying to copy the arch in Paris either way it was cool . There's a very interesting part very close by with fountains and parakeets and all kinds of cool stuff so if you come to the arch definitely check out that Park beside the zoo . This was Popular location lots of people ... tourists and street performers. Popular photo spot. read more
Very cool landmark - not as grand as the one in Paris, but way easier to get a good photo without a million people in the background. The red brick design gives it a unique vibe, and it's a nice walk around the area. Heads up: watch out for the photo scammers. They'll snap your pic, print it on a fake "newspaper," and then try to get you to buy it or "donate." Just say no and keep moving. Great quick stop if you're nearby -- and perfect if you're headed to Parc de la Ciutadella right after. read more
10 months ago
30m high by 28m wide this colossal gate, was built for the World Fair in 1888. Today there is a ton of pigeon protection at the top because falling off a ladder at that height is "no bueno!" Even Humpty dumpy wouldn't survive. Anyway, we stopped along this wonderful structure on our cycling tour. There was a couple singing a love song underneath to welcoming visitors. read more
2 years ago
The Arc de Triomf of Barcelona's history dates back to 1888, when it was built to welcome visitors to the Universal Exposition, not to be confused with the Arc de Triomphe of Paris and similar structures around the world. Differences between Paris include the style, with Barcelona's arch being red, the style as Barcelona's arch features a neo-Mudejar style, and the fact here it's in a fully pedestrianised area, so it isn't full of tourists cutting across the road who are unaware of the underpass like in Paris, the latter I think is a huge benefit compared to Paris, although I do prefer the french structure in general. The red colour of the arch stands out, along Parc de la Ciutadella, making it a fairly pretty area to sit back and relax and spend some time, although it does feel very touristy at the same time. Benches are available which have views of the arch. There is a Metro station of the same nearby, which is handy if visiting the arch and planning to continue your journey around the city with ease. While I don't think it's much better than similar structures which tend to exist in cities across Europe, it's certainly one of the main attractions to visit when in Barcelona and worth a visit for sure. 4* read more
The arc de triomf is very touristy but a great spot to walk around and take pics of. Wife and I enjoyed walking through and watching a few street performers. It was great on a sunny day. Parc and historic spot it is well taken care of and easy to get around. Must see while in Barcelona. read more
What a beautiful Arc - this Arc de Triomf, it's a little bit far from La Rambla and Sagrada Familia but it's so worth it to come to this park to experience this beautiful open space. It's hard to believe that Spain and Portugal were world powers up until the late 1800s. They were like the astronauts of today - sailing to unknown worlds and territories. Cuba, Mexico, Central and South America and the Philippines, etc., their triumphs were vast and wide. This park, I suppose, is a celebration of all that, the Arc was built in 1888. I just recently visited the Dewey monument in Union Square (San Fran), and it marks the US Navy defeating the Spanish armada in Manila Bay, in 1898. Thus, loosening their global grip and lessening their military victories. Still, as of today, Spain has the 14th largest GDP, so economically, it's still very relevant. Glad to celebrate my Spanish roots (5% per 23 and me) and it was cool to see all the similarities between the Philippines and Spain. In fact, they fast track citizenship for Filipinos wishing to immigrate, due to this historical relationship. But I obviously digress, as I often do, so come to this park and take it all in, the architecture, the history, the people, this Arc of Triomf. read more
An absolutely stunning arch that's located at the westside entrance of Parc de Ciutadella. The arch was constructed by architect Josep Vilaseca and served as the entrance for the 1888 Universal Expedition (Spain's first international World's Fair). It is comprised of beautiful red brick and a row of decorative friezes as well as stone bats that represent the emblem of King Jaume I. This part of the park is always bustling with locals and tourists. People can be seen regularly posing near the arch. It makes sense as it's a truly beautiful sight. This is an excellent spot to embark on a leisurely walk or even to rest and take in the pretty views. It's bright and beautiful during the day, but I must admit that it's even more gorgeous at night. It's almost as if it's glowing in the dark. I must have passed by this arch about 5 or 6 times during my visit, and it was intentional most of the time. It served as a great resting spot that was also fun for people watching. You're pretty much destined to pass by Arc de Triomf at some point while in Barcelona. But if not, make sure that you carve out some time to see this beauty. It's a really stunning sight. read more
2 years ago
Enormous and beautiful arc adjacent to a park! Very popular spot for tourists! So many people taking pictures at all angles. Love the detail of the arc if you go up close!! So meticulously made, and everykne appreciates it. read more
Seems every major city has one. So how do you pass up this one ? It's at the northwest entrance to the Ciutadella Park facing Passeig de Sant Joan. A grand way to enter a beautiful area of Barcelona. In 1888 for Barcelona World Fair, Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas built the arch as the main gate. Today it crosses over the wide central promenade of the Passeig de Lluís Companys, leading to the Ciutadella Park that was once the site of the world fair. Unlike other Arcs this one is created from red brick and truly stands out. Grab a seat in the shade in the park and peer through the arc at newer Barcelona from the old world-and enjoy. read more
4 years ago
First time in Barcelona so I wanted to check out all the sites and see almost everything that they have to offer and one of the popular hang-out spots is at the Arc De Triomf. I was amazed at how big and how many people are just hanging around and sitting with their friends just hanging out. You can see people running, walking, and just sitting down in the areas around it. It's a must-stop just to see how beautiful it is! read more
"Every relationship ends, until maybe you find one that lasts forever." - Penélope Cruz Hola! I admit I have an Arc fetish! Hoy! And maybe a Penélope one too! Arc de Triomf in Barcelona is perhaps one of my favorites or at least tied with Napoléon's Arc in Paris, which is second only to the majestic Arc de Triomphe also in Paris. Come follow me on my journey... Quiero ser tu heroe... Barcelona is one of my favorite European cities to just wander the streets. Of course it doesn't help everyone speaks to me in Espanol even though English is my first language and I never got above the 2nd grade in Spanish! I must sound dumb Jaja!:D Barcelona is filled with so much history, whimsical buildings by Antoni Gaudí, delicious Spanish tapas on every street corner, vintage vespas running around endlessly, and that one majestic red Arc called the "Gateway to the World". Arc de Triomf de Barcelona is a wonder to behold. Built for the 1888 Barcelona World's Fair, so of course the name stuck. Standing at 100 feet tall and 164 feet wide it's one of the largest Arcs in the world! The Neo-Mudéjar or Moorish Revival architecture is a sight you'll never forget. The front frieze contains the stone sculpture Barcelona rep les nacions (Catalan for "Barcelona welcomes the nations"). My favorites are the bats - The two pillars of the Arc feature bats carved in stone, which were the emblem of King Jaume I, who ruled over a period of prosperity in Barcelona. These bats are considered to be lucky in Barcelona! How amazing is this, right?! In the end, a visit to Barcelona without walking to, around, and through Arc de Triomf de Barcelona is simply no bueno. If staying in Barcelona, I highly recommend walking to this majestic landmark, to fully capture the essence of Spaniard lifesyle, as you pass the cafés, historic buildings, and everyday people just enjoying life. I walked under it from the Gothic Quarter to La Sagrada Familia with Penélope! Quiero ser tu heroe. Let me be your hero;) read more
Arc de Triomf is a replica of the landmark in Paris. It's a beautiful structure with many artistic details. It's located near a park in the city center and is easily accessible by the metro. Both sides of the structure have beautiful views. Overall rating: 10/10 read more
A Landmark from Exposició Universal de Barcelona I was just showing off my Catalan; that means "Barcelona Universal Exposition"! :-) Arc de Triomfn or Triumphal Arch was built in 1888 as the main access gate to the World Fair by Catalan architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas. It is a redbrick structure and if you pass under it and walk all the way through Passeig de Lluís Companys, you'll end up in Parc de la Ciutadella which was built over the former site of the world fair. The arc is a popular spot for tourists, like yours truly, who want to snap photos of themselves with the a recognizable landmark in the back drop. read more
I didn't even realize Barcelona had an Arc de Triomf until I ran smack dab into it. I now think almost every major city in Europe might have one... I'm a fan of beautiful architecture and this small yet mighty landmark didn't disappoint. With intricate details in every inch of the structure, I was busy marveling at its unique beauty for nearly an hour. I know not of its history, but couldn't help but to feel some Roman influence. Again, this isn't a grand tourist site, just a simple albeit really cool and free stop. If you're taking the metro, there is a specific stop for Arc de Triomf. read more
Holy Shit! If you come to Barcelona from Hamburg, if you are used to the typical northern german bricks, this buildung is a epiphany. No functional building, no office, no house. Just a triumphal arch - beautiful without the used northern strong geometric patterns. Something you know from Paris, Moscow or Munic, but here its RED! Something more astonishing, this triumphal arch never ever had been build to remind a blody victory. No miltary background. This one had been build as the main entrance to the EXPO (World Fair) in 1888. Nowadays its located on a long Passeig de Lluis, one of the (nearly) traffic free zones of Barcelona. read more
Interesting architecture located at the historical area of Barcelona. Unlike Paris, I don't think you can go in here but if you are in the area, be sure to walk by here to admire the architecture of the Arc. I noticed on bike lanes on the other side. They have a plenty of rental bike here and I think it will be fun to ride a bike around here. read more
5 years ago
Nice arch Big and towering Reminds me of the arch in france that reminds me of the archs in rome Clean and a nice place to walk People were playing music and blowing bubbles - nice vibes read more
5 years ago
One of the city's iconic landmarks, Arc de Triompf was built as the gateway to the fair which was held in the Parc de la Ciutadella- 1888 Universal Exhibition. The architect Josep Vilaseca designed a monument to showcase Barcelona's respect for the nations and provinces taking part in the exhibition. There are reliefs on one side symbolising agriculture and industry, and commerce and art on the other. At the top of the arch the shields of the 49 Spanish provinces are presided over by the coat of arms of the city of Barcelona. It is a beautiful photo op that will take 10 min of your time. read more
8 years ago
A beautiful structure and landmark situated close to where we were staying, right on the outer border of the Born neighbourhood. It's very similar to the Arc in Paris except this one is more for looking than climbing all up inside - but having done that in Paris... it's not a big deal, you walk up, look and go down (womp womp) - people just want a picture anyway. Unlike the Paris Arc, this one was built for a worlds fair in 1888 and is a beautiful representation of Spanish/Catalonian architecture from the era. Aside from the majesty of this landmark from a pure tourist photo-op perspective, what I really thought was cool was how the city uses this as the backdrop for local events/festivals. We were in Barcelona for La Mercè Festival Barcelona, which is essentially Barcelona Day. The Arc was used as the background for a massive stage that allowed the entire park in front of it to be concert grounds. This is also a very distinct landmark if you're lost AND there are a ton of metro, bus and transportation options right here as it is a major hub read more
Not as grand as other famous Arcs (like the one in Paris), this arc is still interesting in it's own right. During my stay in Barcelona, there were several independance protests and one of the spots was on the Avenue behind the Triomph. While I did enjoy seeing it, walking around and under it, I would have felt different had my hotel not been a 5 minute walk from it....otherwise, I would have been disappointed if I made a trip to it. read more
El Arco de Triunfo de Barcelona. . . Another piece of architectire in Barcelona that lays right outside of ciutadella parc . Nice place to walk around, meet other tourist,head over to the Ciutadella Park and even take a stroll to the art district from there. Pretty much a gateway to a variety of things. Follow @thehungrynomadz on instagram for more read more
We checked out the Arc De Triomf as it was one of the places on my check list to see and it didn't disappoint. There were signs directing us how to get the Arc on the streets which was helpful. My friend and I had fun trying to get the perfect pics by the arch. We walked through the park and checked out the scenery. It wasn't a "wow" attraction but cool to see and get those famous pics. read more
After visiting Paris' Arc last year I knew I had to check out this one in Barcelona while on vacation. We are only in Spain 3 full days so there were several things I wanted to see and didn't get a chance to, however, tonight on our last night here, we took a cab ride for $10,00€ before heading back to our hotel and it was worth every cent. The monument itself is free to visit and it's very pretty at night time. Wouldve like to see it during the day as well but I'm glad we made it at all. Kind of dirty in the plaza around the Arc. Broken glass and a little bit of graffiti, but you see that all over this big, beautiful city. read more
Arc de Triomf is the triumphal arch of Barcelona. Most of the famous arches I have seen in my travels have been white in color but this one was unique that it was brick red color. It was pretty massive in size. Great detail. The mini domes on top were neat. Not one of the main attractions of Barcelona but worth a visit if you have time. read more
I was in Spain and took a stroll around my neighborhood and I happened upon the Arc de Triomf. It was surrounded by a gorgeous park area. My friends and I immediately saw the space as a great photo opportunity to commemorate our trip. Its an iconic structure and beautiful to look at. I'm so happy that I crossed paths with the Arc de Triomf. read more
6 years ago
Just amazing. The feeling of accomplishment and triumph takes over you. Its definitely a site to see. A definite must on anyones Barcelona bucket list. Walking around this amazing arch is inspiring and breathtaking. read more
9 years ago
I was doing my list about the places i would like to visit in the city. When i saw the pictures of Arc de Triomf, the architecture style just caught my eyes. So I just decided to visit this place and check the place out in person. When I arrived to the gate I just amazed by how it look. This is another one of the kind gates I have visited so far. I like it's red color that made it pop. And the sculpture on it. It's historical and cultural as well. I think it really speak local spirit. I was walking toward to the Parc de la Ciutadella, when I looked back and saw the Arc de Triomf getting smaller and smaller was quite interesting. This place wasn't as busy as other tourist attractions I had been in Barcelona. Well, probably because I visited this place quite early. It was around 10 am. I really like it. I enjoyed the time I spent there and made quite some good pictures. read more
It's a beautiful spot. We headed over after a long day of Football. It was really cool to see at night. They were preparing for a festival. So there were a lot of street vendors. Beautiful setting though with lots of people and fun things to see. In addition there are a lot of great restaurants really close to the area. We had an amazing dinner at a restaurant near by. read more
7 years ago
Beautiful and historical! It was right by our hotel or we may not have chosen this as a spot to see with only two days in Barcelona. But I'm glad we did. In the adjoining park there were musicians, a man making huge bubbles with bubbles blowing everywhere, and a general happy atmosphere. The arc is much larger than it looks in pictures. Definitely worth seeing! read more
9 years ago
One of many monuments in Barcelona the Arc de Triomf is simply that, an Arch in the middle of a public green space celebrating some historic event. While I think we can all agree most cities could use more Parks, both the size and the fact that most of the structure was blocked by several stages was a disappointment. read more
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Arc de Triomf - landmarks - Updated June 2026
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