Everything you need to know for your visit to Arc de Triomf

The Arc de Triomf was designed by the postmodernist architect Josep Vilaseca, standing 30 metres tall and primarily built from red brick. Its design draws inspiration from the Neo-Mudéjar style, which combines Spanish, Arabic, and Asian influences.

While the structure follows a classical arch form, it is rich in symbolic details, reflecting the progressive ideals Barcelona aimed to convey during the exhibition. The decoration includes sculptures, ceramics, and ornate friezes, each representing different themes associated with the city:

• Main frieze: Depicts Barcelona welcoming the 22 countries participating in the exhibition.

• Rear frieze: Known as The Reward, symbolising the distribution of prizes to the exhibition’s participants.

• Side friezes: Represent key concepts such as agriculture, industry, commerce, sciences, and the arts – the foundational pillars of 19th-century universal exhibitions, celebrating the ideals of progress in modern society.

At the very top of the arch, you’ll find the coats of arms of Spain’s 49 provinces, protected by the coat of arms of Barcelona at the centre.

This blend of historical significance, architectural beauty, and symbolic detail makes the Arc de Triomf a must-visit landmark in Barcelona.