In 1888, Barcelona hosted the Universal Exposition for the first time. To commemorate this event, they built a solemn triumphal arch in the city. In those days, it used to greet the exposition guests at the Citadel Park entrance where international events took place. Since then, the triumphal arch has become one of the most iconic landmarks of the city, popular with locals and tourists alike. Locals use it as a meeting place and arrange public festivities there, whereas tourists walk around it and learn the history and culture of the Catalan capital.

The triumphal arch in Barcelona is a unique architectural creation with a deep meaning. It is the only creation of that kind in the world that’s dedicated to human progress in art, science and economy, instead of military victories. If you look closer, you can see it in the arch’s appearance. It’s decorated with angles that symbolise peace, safety and happiness, and fruits that represent agriculture, manufacturing, trade and art. On the construction’s main facade there is a bas-relief used by Barcelona to greet its guests at the Universal Exposition. On the other side, there is another bas-relief that depicts the city thanking all the participants of the exhibition and giving them commemorative medals. The crowning glory of the arch is the Coat of arms of provinces of Spain along with the Coat of arms of the Catalan capital.

Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas, the architect of the magnificent 30-metre construction, wanted his creation to be a symbol of Barcelona’s respect for the nations and people who took part in the Universal Exposition of 1888, and he managed to bring this idea to life flawlessly.

The appearance of the triumphal arch in Barcelona also differs from other constructions of that kind. On the one hand, it maintains classical proportions and pomposity inherent to famous European arches. On the other hand, the architect drew inspiration from the neo-Mudejar style that was based on Medieval Islamic architecture. The unusual combination of red brick and light stone used during the construction of the arch further highlights this striking artistic contrast.