The Parc de la Ciutadella is Barcelona’s green lung and the city’s oldest public park. It was created on the site of a former military fortress for the 1888 Universal Exhibition. It still preserves landmarks from that period, including the Cascada Monumental, the Modernista Castell dels Tres Dragons and its well-known lake. Beneath the shade of mature trees, walkers, families and joggers share the 18-hectare park throughout the day. Every visit feels slightly different, with life unfolding in every corner.
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One of Gaudí’s earliest works can be found here. As a student, he helped design the Cascada Monumental, and a closer look reveals details in the ornamentation and railings that already hint at his distinctive style.
The park is also made for wandering, whether alone or with family and friends. There are several children’s play areas, including a play centre, a giant, reinforced-concrete mammoth sculpture and table tennis tables that bring together locals and visitors alike.
It is also home to one of the centres of Catalan political life. The former military arsenal now houses the Parlament de Catalunya.
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Zoo de Barcelona
A zoo housing over 2,000 animals from around 300 species in habitats designed to ensure their welfare.
Castell dels Tres Dragons
A majestic modernista castle with towers, dragons and exposed brickwork, right in the heart of the Ciutadella.
Arc de Triomf
A civic triumphal arch built in 1888 as the gateway to the Universal Exhibition, 30 metres high and in the Neo-Mudéjar style.
