COLUMBUS MONUMENT

Supplied by: Turisme Barcelona

Overview

Located at the end of the Rambla, the Columbus Monument is 60 meters high and offers a unique panoramic view of the city through the four cardinal points. From a breathtaking view of the sea to the rooftops of the Gothic Quarter, the Cathedral, Santa Maria del Mar and the Rambla to the north, the Puerto Olmpico and the Forum to the east, the Montjuïc cliff and its castle to the south and the immense green lung that surrounds Barcelona, Collserola, to the west

Inaugurated in 1888 during the Universal Exhibition, the viewpoint is accessed with an elevator that takes 30 seconds to reach the top

ADVANTAGES:
Did you know that Christopher Columbus chose to disembark in Barcelona harbour when he returned from his voyage to America?. To commemorate the event, we suggest you visit the Monument dedicated to this illustrious figure. The statue commemorates this landmark achievement by supposedly pointing to the new continent, although, in reality, America lies in the opposite direction!.

When you get to the top, you'll be able to enjoy stunning 360º views. For instance, to the north, you'll see the Gothic Quarter with the bell towers of the Cathedral, Santa Maria del Mar and La Mercè or the bustling Rambla. To the south, you'll see Mount Montjuïc, with the castle at the top. Montjuïc is also the site of museums, gardens, theatres and the Olympic Ring. If you look down, you'll see the Royal Shipyards, the Drassanes, which are home to the Museu Marítim.

If you look east and follow the coastline, you'll be able to make out the modern Forum area with its characteristic photovoltaic roof and skyscrapers. Closer to you, the twin towers mark the entrance to the Olympic Marina. At your feet you'll see the old harbour, the Port Vell, and the industrial port. Finally, to the west, you'll see the Parc Natural de Collserola, the vast green "lung" that surrounds the city, with the Collserola Tower and Tibidabo Amusement Park at the top.

Ride to the top and you'll see!