Christopher Columbus monument Barcelona

Updated Aug 13 2023

The monument dedicated to Christopher Columbus is one of many that were erected throughout the world in honour of the discovery of America, but this one in Barcelona has a special significance for us. In addition to being a monument it’s also a viewpoint that offers a magnificent view of Barcelona coastline and La Rambla.

Information on the viewpoint of Christopher Columbus in Barcelona

The Christopher Columbus monument is a 60-metre high column made out of stone, and it was the result of the commissioning of Gaietà Bugas i Monrava, the well-known Catalan architect at the time, and head of Barcelona’s Universal Exhibition of 1888. It was built for this very purpose, and was inaugurated on 1st June of the same year.

Christopher Columbus at night

At the very top of the column is a statue of Christopher Columbus, made by the sculptor Rafael Atché. His arm is pointing out towards the sea; a common misconception is that it points towards America, but actually that’s not true at all – America is in the opposite direction!


The most accepted theory is that at the time, it was thought that it wouldn’t be appropriate, or aesthetically pleasing, to have Columbus pointing at the ground and not towards the sea, while others believe that he could be pointing towards Genoa, his alleged birthplace.

The Christopher Columbus viewpoint: unique views

It might look improbable at first glance, but there is actually a lift inside the Christopher Columbus monument that allows you to go up to the viewpoint at the top of it, and enjoy good views of the surrounding area, including the port, La Rambla and Montjuïc.

Views from the Christopher Columbus monument

Go up to the Barcelona’s Columbus monument

Tickets

-10% online

Barcelona Turisme

However, the space inside the monument is quite small, so you don’t get the best views of the city. In spite of this, we think it’s well worth a trip due to its great height.

The lions of the Columbus monument in Barcelona

At the foot of the column, and comprising part of the monument, there are eight lions – four standing, overlooking the sea, and four sitting down, looking towards the land. It’s very typical for tourists to have their pictures taken sitting on the lions, but if you choose to do so, please be careful!

You can buy your tickets for the viewpoint on the day of your visit at the ticket office, which is at the bottom of the statue, but if you buy your tickets online in advance you’ll receive a discount of 10%.

Photo gallery

Where is the Columbus Monument in Barcelona located? Map and how to get there


View larger Map

Address

plaça (square) Portal de la Pau, Barcelona.

Opening hours

Every day: from 08:30 to 20:30.

1st Januar: from 10:00 to 14:30.

Closed: 25th December.

Entry price

General admission: €6.

Children (from 4 to 12 years old): €4.

Over-65s: €4.

Free entry: Children under the age of 4.

Come arrivare

Metro: Drassanes (line 3).

Bus: lines 21, 59, 88, 121, D20, H14, V11, V13, N0, N6, N9 and Hop-on Hop-off Bus Barcelona.

How to get there?

Las Golondrinas boat tour
Maremagnum
La Rambla
Barcelona coastline
Centre d’Arts Santa Mònica

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