Columbus Monument, Barcelona Overview

The Mirador de Colom is a 60-metre-high monument in Barcelona dedicated to Italian explorer Christopher Columbus for his voyage to America. Located at the end of Barcelona's Rambla, the monument is said to stand on the site where he first landed after returning from the ‘New World.’

The statue of Christopher Columbus is shown to be holding out nautical charts and supposedly pointing towards Mallorca. It was built for the 1888 Barcelona Universal Exposition and stands till date, now a major tourist attraction of the Catalan capital. It was constructed by architect Gaietà Buigas i Monravà with the bronze statue being sculpted by Rafael Atché. The statue is made from bronze with the pillars and base representing prominent Catalan personalities.

Viewing Platform at the Columbus Monument, Barcelona

View from the Platform at the Columbus Monument, Barcelona — Source

The monument offers an opportunity for tourists to view the coast from its small viewing platform at the base of Columbus’ feet, which can be reached by elevator on the grounds. This glass structure is a treat to the eyes with an aerial and scenic view of the city of Barcelona and sights like the Montjuic Mountain, the Gothic Quarter, Gaudí’s Sagrada Família, the Montjuic castle and Port Vell Marina.

Architecture of the Columbus Monument, Barcelona

The statue sits on top of the Corinthian column with Columbus holding a naval scroll in his left hand and pointing towards the sea on the right. However, the direction to which Columbus is seen pointing has been a matter of debate till date. The statue also has an inscription below it as ‘Tierra’ which means land. The pedestal of this monument is a marvel to catch a sight of with four Phemes and gryphons at the top along with four structures around the pedestal, and each side has a medallion portrait of people associated with Columbus. It also has eight other statues between the medallions and the buttresses at the base. The base of this monument has eight bronze bas-relief panels illustrating Columbus’ voyage and eight more coats-of-arms as a symbol of the places he visited. The circle at the base has four staircases with eight lions which can often be seen in tourist photographs.

Wine Tasting at the Columbus Monument, Barcelona

If you want to taste some wine while hundreds of feet above the ground, Columbus monument makes it possible at the wine tasting space on the viewing platform. The wine or cava selection can be made from the four Designation of Origin regions – Penedes, Catalunya, Pla de Bages and Alella. The setting allows you to enjoy the beautiful panoramic views of Las Rambla while you soak into the moment with a glass of wine in hand and some traditional artisan cheese on the side.

Tickets for the Columbus Monument, Barcelona

Tickets can be purchased to go up the viewing platform on top of the monument. An elevator takes tourists up to the platform where one can enjoy views overlooking Port Vell and Rambla.

Adults - EUR 6
Children (above the age of 4) - EUR 4
Children (below the age of 4) - Free

Book your tickets here - https://booking.touristactive.com/barcelona/barcelona-columbus-monument-entry-ticket-with-optional-wine-and-cava-tasting-id14464/