Built to welcome
It was the ceremonial gateway to the 1888 fair, held in Ciutadella Park. The frieze facing the city is called 'Barcelona Welcomes the Nations'.
Urban Tales › Barcelona › Arc de Triomf
Arc de Triomf: a welcome, not a victory
Barcelona's Arc de Triomf celebrates no battle. It was built as the main entrance to the 1888 Universal Exposition, the city's first world's fair, and has stood at the top of the promenade to Ciutadella Park ever since.
Built for1888 Universal Exposition
ArchitectJosep Vilaseca
StyleNeo-Mudéjar brick
Leads toCiutadella Park
Hear the Arc de Triomf story, in the app's voice
A short preview. The full story plays on its own when you walk up to it with Urban Tales.
Three stories most visitors miss
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Brick instead of marble
Architect Josep Vilaseca chose red brick in a Neo-Mudéjar style, inspired by Spain's Islamic-influenced architecture, rather than the marble of classical arches.
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Look for the bats
Small bats are carved on the arch, a symbol long linked to King James I and the Crown of Aragon, which appears on many Barcelona and Valencia emblems.
TipWalk the wide promenade from the arch down to Ciutadella Park and its cascade fountain. It's especially pleasant on a weekend morning, with street musicians and skaters. With Urban Tales running, its story plays as you reach it.
Nearby landmarks
Arc de Triomf: common questions
Why was the Arc de Triomf built?
As the main entrance to the 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition, held in Ciutadella Park.
Who designed the Arc de Triomf in Barcelona?
The architect Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, in a Neo-Mudéjar style of red brick.
Is it like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris?
Only in shape. The Paris arch honours military victories; Barcelona's was built to welcome visitors to a world's fair.