Arc de Triomf

Arc de Triomf
Choose two or more items and save on your trip:
Work out the symbolism behind the various friezes and carvings on this large monumental arch that dwarfs its surroundings.

The Arc de Triomf is an enormous monument initially built for the 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition. Today, the arch is one of the city’s most iconic attractions and marks the entrance to the scenic Parc de la Ciutadella. Visit the Arc de Triomf to admire the neo-mudéjar design of the dark red triumphal arch.

Get a closer look and study the intricate carvings and sculptures adorning the walls. Giant pillars merge with the arch’s sides, presenting imposing stone sculptures of bats. These winged creatures were considered the emblem of King Jaume I in the 13th century.

Pass through the arch and gaze up at its curved ceiling. Each side of the arch’s interior has three light blue doors.

At the top of the arch, notice the horizontal stone tapestry that depicts various historic figures beneath a large emblem. The friezes represent themes including agriculture, industry and art. Stand back and consider the sheer size of the structure, which is 98 feet (30 meters) tall.

The arch stands in the Passeig de Lluís Companys, a long pedestrian boulevard flanked by palm trees and elaborate lanterns. Find the best spot on the lengthy approach to the monument to capture a photo of your group, with the arch making up an impressive background.

Consider the history of this Catalan symbol, which was designed by architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas and built as the gateway to the 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition. The arch’s various symbols welcomed other nations to the exhibition and depict the awarding of medals.

Find the Arc de Triomf on the edge of the Old Town quarter in central Barcelona. Take the train or metro to its namesake station right beside the monument, which is in the northwestern corner of the Parc de la Ciutadella. See some of the nearby sights, such as the Plaça de Tetuan, the Plaça de Catalunya and the Museu de la Xocolata.

Hotel ILUNION Bel Art
Barcelona Century Hotel
Hotel Casa Gardenia
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Air, helicopter & balloon tours

See all 7 activitiesOpens in new tab

Reviews of Arc de Triomf

4.2
Top destination
5 - Excellent
211
" "5 - Excellent 33.59872611464968%
4 - Good
348
" "4 - Good 55.4140127388535%
3 - Okay
68
" "3 - Okay 10.828025477707007%
2 - Disappointing
1
" "2 - Disappointing 0.1592356687898089%
1 - Terrible
0
" "1 - Terrible 0%

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
30 Oct 2019

Electronic scooters are available to hire here and great to get to the fountain

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
2 Oct 2019

Sagra de Família is breath taking

5/5 - Excellent

Verified traveller
17 Jul 2019

Take a rickshaw bike tour or Sunday stroll along here

3/5 - Okay

L
7 Jul 2019

Lovely area to walk along in the evening

4/5 - Good

Peter/Sarah
9 Jun 2019

Plenty of street performers along the main mall.

4/5 - Good

Verified traveller
12 May 2019

Nice area - walked through and along.

Popular places to visit


Top Hotel Deals

Arc la Rambla
Arc la Rambla
3 out of 5
La Rambla 19, Barcelona
Arc la Rambla
Hotel Rec Barcelona - Adults only
Hotel Rec Barcelona - Adults only
3 out of 5
Carrer del Rec Comtal, 19, Barcelona
Hotel Rec Barcelona - Adults only
Rialto
Rialto
3 out of 5
Carrer de Ferran, 40-42, Barcelona, Barcelona
Rialto
Cuatro Naciones
Cuatro Naciones
2 out of 5
Calle La Rambla, La 40, Barcelona
Cuatro Naciones
Hotel 1898
Hotel 1898
4 out of 5
La Rambla, 109; (entrance on the street, Pintor Fortuny), Barcelona
Hotel 1898
Ciutat de Barcelona
Ciutat de Barcelona
3 out of 5
C/ Princesa, 33-35, Barcelona
Ciutat de Barcelona
Hotel Barcelona Universal
Hotel Barcelona Universal
4 out of 5
Del Paral.lel, Del 76-78, Barcelona
Hotel Barcelona Universal
Hotel Colón Barcelona
Hotel Colón Barcelona
4 out of 5
Avenida Catedral, 7, Barcelona
Hotel Colón Barcelona
Motel One Barcelona - Ciutadella
Motel One Barcelona - Ciutadella
3 out of 5
Passeig de Pujades, 11-13, Barcelona
Motel One Barcelona - Ciutadella
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.