Gothic Quarter, Barcelona
Located around the Olympic Stadium on Montjuic Hill, this is the most important area that was redesigned for the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, due to the importance of its facilities, which include the Palau Sant Jordi, the Olympic Stadium, the Picornell swimming pools, the Montjuic municipal swimming pool, the INEFC building and, since 2007, the Olympic and Sports Museum.
In the middle of the ring is the famous Torre Calatrava, a 136-metre communications tower.
Since the Universal Exhibition of 1888, Barcelona has been the venue for countless events of world renown. Barcelona’s trade fair tradition is not only a reflection of its rich history, but also of the dynamism and vitality of this vibrant city.
Located between two iconic venues, Montjuïc and Gran Vía – the latter opened in 2007 – the Fira de Barcelona is more than an institution: it is the epicentre where companies from different economic sectors meet. These spaces, which together cover more than 400,000 square metres, are the focal point for trade fairs, congresses and other events that take place every year. Here, leading companies not only showcase their innovations, but also promote business and exchange valuable knowledge and experience.
In addition, from 2021, the Fira will expand its scope by managing the Barcelona International Convention Centre (CCIB), an impressive 100,000m2 space that will host around a hundred events a year.
Built in 1929 for the Barcelona World Expo and designed by the architect Puig i Cadafalch, it currently houses a total of 117 buildings from fifteen Spanish autonomous communities, reproduced to scale over an area of 42,000 square metres.
It is considered a unique space in the city, a real village, with streets, squares and buildings that can take us from an Aragonese church to an Andalusian neighbourhood, all within a single enclosure.
Since 1997, it has also been home to 20 workshops of jewellers, glaziers, mask makers, embroiderers, puppeteers, leather workers, potters, etc., offering unique pieces with their own brand name. For this reason, the Generalitat de Catalunya has declared it an area of interest for crafts.
Barcelona, a city of wonders and charms, has another unique corner: the Poble Espanyol. Built in 1929 during the Barcelona World Fair, this complex is the work of the famous architect Puig i Cadafalch. With a surface area of 42,000 square metres, it promises visitors an unforgettable experience.
Enter its streets and squares and let yourself be enchanted by its magic. From an impressive Aragonese church to a picturesque Andalusian neighbourhood, this area offers a journey through fifteen of Spain’s main regions without leaving the city.
As you explore Barcelona, a city of art, culture, and stunning architecture, you will come across Montjuïc Castle, a monument that piques curiosity due to its historical significance.
Initially emerging as a watchtower, this site was transformed into an imposing fortress during the War of the Reapers.
This site has witnessed many significant events. It played a crucial role in the War of Succession between 1705 and 1714 and was remodelled by the talented military engineer Juan Martín Cermeño in the 18th century. Thanks to Cermeño, the castle retains its majestic appearance today.
Over the years, Barcelona has endured bombings from this site. However, the castle has not only served as a defensive fortress but also as a military prison. A tragic event in its history was the execution of Lluís Companys, president of the Generalitat.
Today, Montjuïc Castle no longer houses prisoners or armies. Since 2007, it has been managed by the Barcelona City Council and has been transformed into one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions. Its rich history and prime location make it a must-visit for visitors.
If you are interested in discovering more local monuments in Barcelona, we invite you to explore our guide, which takes you on a journey through the city’s historical gems.
The pavilion was built in 1929 for the International Exposition as the German Pavilion. It is a building of simple forms but crafted with luxurious materials such as travertine marble.
Once the exposition was over, the pavilion was dismantled in 1930. Over time, it became a key reference point not only in the career of Mies van der Rohe but also for the broader context of 20th-century architecture. As a result, the pavilion was reconstructed in 1980 and inaugurated in 1986 at the original site.
It is one of the most emblematic monuments of modern 20th-century architecture, which has been extensively studied and interpreted while also serving as an inspiration for various generations of architects.
Its creators were Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, director of the Bauhaus, the centre of aesthetic reflection that changed the course of art and design in Europe, alongside Lilly Reich. The pavilion is constructed from glass, steel, and four different types of marble: Roman travertine, Alpine green, ancient green from Greece, and golden onyx from the Atlas.
This open-air theatre was designed and built in 1929 by the architects Ramón Reventós and Nicolau Maria Rubió i Tudurí for the Barcelona International Exhibition. Reventós and Rubió were inspired by Epìdauro’s plan for the theatre.
Located in an old quarry in the mountains, the cut stone wall serves as the theatre’s stage.
With an area of 460 square metres, the theatre has a total capacity of 1900 seats.
Since 1976, the Grec Festival has been held here every year, with many important artistic performances, especially in the summer. The rest of the year it is rarely used.
There are gardens and a restaurant on the site.
One of Barcelona’s most precious treasures is the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium, a monument that has witnessed decisive moments in the city’s sporting and cultural history. Originally built in 1929 for the Barcelona International Exhibition, the stadium was meticulously renovated by a team of renowned architects, including Gregotti, Correa, Milà, Margarit and Buxadé, for the Barcelona 92 Olympic Games.
The stadium is named after Lluís Companys, president of the Generalitat de Catalunya during the Civil War, and is a tribute to his memory and legacy. In addition to its historical significance, the stadium has become an important venue for high-profile events, including concerts by major artists and top-level sporting events.
One of the curiosities of the stadium is that the stone quarried to lower the ground level during its reconstruction was of such high quality that it was used in the construction of the iconic Sagrada Familia. Today, visitors can admire the preserved Olympic cauldron outside the stadium, an everlasting reminder of the Olympic flame and the spirit of the Games.
Whether you’re a sports fan, a history buff or simply looking for a unique experience in Barcelona, the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium is a must-see. We invite you to explore this iconic venue, discover its history and experience the excitement that still vibrates in the stands.
Barcelona 92 is a showcase for the genius of architect Arata Isozaki. Not only is it Barcelona’s most visited Olympic facility, but it has also hosted concerts by international artists such as Bruce Springsteen, U2, Madonna and Shakira. It is renowned for its versatile structure, capable of hosting everything from sporting events such as the Davis Cup to musical performances.
Book your tour of the Palau Sant Jordi here and discover its stunning modern architecture.
Around the Palau you’ll find other outstanding facilities such as the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium and the Bernat Picornell swimming pools. Don’t miss the Sant Jordi Club, a more intimate concert hall located behind the Palau.
At the end of your tour, we suggest you enjoy the sunset next to the artistic installation “Utsurohi” (Change) by Aiko Miyawaki, a series of cylinders that glow in the evening light.
Barcelona, with its iconic buildings such as the Sagrada Familia and Torre Glòries, offers unique experiences and one of the highlights is the Montjuïc cable car. This public transport offers visitors and locals alike a spectacular way to enjoy the cityscape and nature.
Located on Avinguda Miramar, the cable car was created to link the vibrant life of the city with the tranquil mountain of Montjuïc. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted by the historic Castell de Montjuïc, a military fortress built in 1640 and now home to cultural activities. Nearby, the Parc de Montjuïc offers access to cultural gems such as the Joan Miró Foundation and the National Art Museum of Catalonia.
For those interested in the Barcelona ’92 Olympic Games, the iconic Olympic Ring is just a short walk away. And don’t forget to stop off at the Mirador de Montjuïc, the highest point in the city, for breathtaking views, especially at sunset.
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Gothic Quarter, Barcelona
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Gothic Quarter, Barcelona
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