The Arc de Triomf is one of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks. Originally built as the grand entrance to the 1888 World’s Fair, the arch has become a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Its striking red-brick design and decorative details make it a favorite backdrop for photos. While you can’t go inside, the triumphal arch is well worth a visit to admire up close and take in its impressive architecture.
| Arc de Triomf | Tickets, openingstijden & openbaar vervoer |
|---|---|
| Price | Free to visit from the outside |
| Adress | Passeig de Lluís Companys, 08003 Barcelona |
| Public transport / metro | Metro: Arc de Triomf (L1) |
| Opening hours | N.v.t. |
Click here to navigate directly to 👇
- What is the Arc de Triomf
- How to get to the Arc de Triomf?
- Things to see and do at the Arc de Triomf
- Architecture Arc de Triomf
What is the Arc de Triomf
Barcelona’s Arc de Triomf, like the French Arc du Triomphe, is a triumphal arch. It was even inspired by the Parisian version, but it was not built to celebrate a military victory.
The impressive brick arch can be found near Parc de la Ciutadella, at the start of the grand Passeig Lluis Companys and the beginning of the Eixample district. The highlight was designed by architect José Vilaseca. The decoration was done by Josep Reynés, Josep Llimona, Antoni Vilanova, Torquat Tasso, Manuel Fuxá, and Pere Carbonell. The arch was restored in 1990, just before the Summer Olympic Games in 1992.
Custom bike tours around Barcelona’s highlights and hidden gems. Starting from €31.50.
How to get to the Arc de Triomf?
Metro
The easiest way to get to the Arc de Triomf is by metro. Take the red line to the Arc de Triomf station.
Walking
You can also easily walk to the Arc de Triomf from the city center, as it is located at the border between the Eixample and El Born districts.
By bike
Cycling is also an option; you can combine your bike ride with a visit to the Parc de la Ciutadella.
Bus
Bus 54, 7, B20, B25, H16 and V19 stop at Arc de Triomf.
Things to see and do at the Arc de Triomf
The arch leads to Passeig Lluís Companys, a beautiful promenade perfect for walking or cycling. It’s also a great spot for children to run around freely. Often, you’ll find life-sized bubble blowers along the promenade.
You walk along this path to reach the main entrance of thet Parc de la Ciutadella. You can also easily combine a visit to the Arc de Triomf with a trip to the trendy district El Born.
The Arc de Triomf is not open to visitors inside, except during the 48h festival, then it is possible to climb the arch, keep in mind there will be a very long queue
Architecture of the Arc the Triomf
The Arc de Triomf stands 30 meters tall and is one of Barcelona’s most striking landmarks. Designed in a Neo-Moorish style by architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, the arch is built from distinctive reddish-brown bricks and topped with ornate domes. Its intricate decorations make it a feast for the eyes.
On the front of the arch, you’ll find Barcelona Welcomes the Nations, a stone sculpture by Josep Reynés, symbolizing the city’s openness during the 1888 World’s Fair. On the opposite side, Josep Llimona’s La Recompensa (The Reward) highlights the event’s spirit of achievement. Flanking the arch, Antoni Vilanova created figures representing Industry, Agriculture, and Commerce on the right side, while Torquat Tasso sculpted allegories of Science and the Arts on the left. Atop the arch, you’ll spot female figures by Manuel Fuxá and Pere Carbonell, symbolizing glory. There are also two angels—one holding a laurel wreath, the other blowing a trumpet—adding to the sense of triumph.
A closer look reveals the coats of arms of Spain’s provinces—49 at the time of construction. (Spain now has 50 provinces, after the Canary Islands were divided into two separate provinces in 1927.)
The arch’s warm, reddish hues contrast beautifully against Barcelona’s often bright blue skies, making it especially photogenic. Today, the Arc de Triomf remains a popular spot for photos and is frequently used as a backdrop in music videos, films, and lip dubs.
