One of the most emblematic monuments in the town, the Christopher Columbus Monument; that further stands at the end of La Rambla of Barcelona, near the sea. The 52 metre high column was designed by Gaietà Buïgas for the World Exhibition in 1888, and in the same vein is crowned by a statue of Christopher Columbus, a work by Rafael Arché that stands 7 metres tall.
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About the Columbus Monument
Christopher Columbus, is the legendary navigator who discovered America in October 1492. In 1881, Barcelona City Council agreed to erect the monument as a tribute to Christopher Columbus, who chose to disembark in the port of Barcelona on his return from America. Subsequently, construction of the monument started in 1882 but due to financial problems it was only completed just in time for the exhibition.
The monument is placed at the site where Christopher Columbus arrived in 1493 after his discovery of America the year before. Columbus was presumably born in Genoa, Italy. He first moved to Portugal and later on settled in Spain. Nonetheless in the nineteenth century Columbus was considered a Catalan.
The monumental cast-iron column stands in the middle of the Placa de la Porta de Pau. In addition, it is set on a stone pedestal spectacularly adorned with statues. The statue of Columbus atop the sixty meter tall column overlooks the sea from its elevated position; and is noticeable from a distant.
Sightseeing at the top
You can enjoy the monument from afar; however for a more exhilarating experience during your visit, you can enjoy the panoramic views from the top of the monument. Take the lift inside the column to the viewing gallery at the top; a viewpoint 60 meters above the ground, where you can enjoy great views of Barcelona. The entry fee is €4 for Adults and €3 for Children (4-12 years old) and senior citizens; and is to be paid inside the basement of the monument.
If you decide to take the ride up, there are incredible views at the top. To the north there is the Gothic Quarter and the city’s historic buildings; Santa Maria del Mar and La Mercè, La Rambla, Placa de Catalunya and the entrance to the Eixample district. To the east, following the coastline, you’ll be able to see the modern Forum district in the distance. Nearer to you, the Olympic Marina, Port Vell, and the industrial port are at the foot of the monument.
Moreover, to the south stands Montjuïc Hill, with its castle at the top. The Royal Shipyards which house the Museu Marítim, are further at the foot of the hill. However, to the west you can see the Collserola Natural Park, the vast greenery surrounding the city; with the Collserola Tower and the Tibidabo Amusement Park as its two stand-out attractions.
Where to stay in Barcelona?
When planning your trip to Barcelona, it is good to note that the La Rambla area is considered to be the most desirable area to stay in Barcelona by most visitors. For instance, because of its location, being central to everything, activities, sites; and other various destinations in Barcelona become readily accessible. Likewise, if you are coming in a group, book your apartment in advance to secure a comfortable stay during your time here. But if you are planning to visit Barcelona as couples or in much smaller groups then view available rooms and book now!
Practical information
Address: Columbus Monument – Plaça Portal de la Pau, s/n, 08001 Barcelona
- Metro: Drassanes (Green Line, L3)
- Bus: Portal de la Pau: 59, 120, D20, H14, V13 | La Rambla / Santa Mònica: 59, 91, V13
Opening hours: Every day from 08:30 to 20:30