Placa D’ Espanya, Barcelona Overview

Located on the outskirts of Barcelona, Placa D' Espanya is the city's largest square. It boasts many popular attractions, including historical ones. It is perfect for a one-day visit where one can relax, do sightseeing, eat, and go shopping.

Placa D’ Espanya is a centre which was built in 1929 as a venue to serve the universal exhibition that was held in Spain. Some of the prominent attractions around the square include the National Museum of Catalan Art, the old Barcelona bullfight ring, the Magic Fountain, Caixa Forum and the architectural hub village of Poble Espanyol. The square is famous for housing the former bullfighting ring which has now been converted to a grand shopping complex known as Arenas De Barcelona. Perfectly placed at the intersection of the main roads of Barcelona such as Gran Via and the Parel lel, Placa D’ Espanya is easy to reach from the central Barcelona within an hour or less.

Sightseeing in and Around Placa D' Espanya

If you happen to visit here during the New Year you will surely find your jaws dropping down by witnessing the amazing fire works and new year countdown with thousands of masses gathered at Placa D’ Espanya.

1. The Magic Fountain

Magic Fountain near Placa D' Espanya — Source

A magical combination of Water, Music and Light gives the pleasure of a perfect evening to be spent in Spain. The dancing fountain is a great treat not only to young and old but an exciting show for kids too. It was designed and constructed by a famous Architect Engineer of Catalonia named Carles Buigas with the efforts of 3000 heads for the Universal expo in 1929. This is the most enjoying spot at Placa D’ Espanya.

2. National Museum of Catalan Art

National Museum of Catalan Arts, Montjuic — Source

Passing through the Venetian towers of Placa D’ Espanya, you will land yourself in front of the famous Palau National building of Montjuic which was originally built for the Universal fair in 1929. This building houses the popular National museum of Catalan art that portrays the Roman architectural work and paintings. This visit will give you the best display of Catalan art to explore.

3. Caixa Forum

An astounding collection of the ancient as well as modern art representing the culture and social aspects of all around the world is what you will explore at Caixa Forum. It was originally built as a textile mill that was converted to a Storage house during the World Expo in 1929 and is now a beautiful art gallery.

4. Pavello Mies Van Der Rohe

Pavellion Mies Van Der Rohe, Montjuic — Source

Opposite to the Caixo Forum lies the perfect example for modern architecture built almost 90 years ago. It is a must visit place not only for tourists but also for the Architectural students and admirers. Not only the splendid architectural beauty but the history behind it is also amazing to know. Built during the Universal exposition in 1929, it was meant for the welcoming of the King and Queen of Spain. It is also known that it houses very few objects as a part of its grand furniture. This includes the only two chairs kept for the King and Queen of Spain and the famous sculpture named “Morning”. This modern unit which we see today was reconstructed again in 1983 as the pavilion was dismantled after its sole purpose during the Universal fair was solved. You can also witness some exhibition during your visit and shop for the architectural books and stuffs from the store located just outside of this building.

5. Poble Espanyol

Poble Espanyol village entrance — Source

A village which was actually built for organizing the World fair in Barcelona today houses the most vibrant colored and unique styled homes and buildings that showcase the true Gaudi architectural talent of the people of Spain. You will find many options to spend a good time in this Spanish village. From enjoying the Spanish food at the restaurants to shopping antique Spanish crafts and décor items this village also offers cozy bars to have a chilled Spanish Red wine with the setting sun.

How To Reach Placa D' Espanya

Getting to the Placa D’ Espanya from the center of Barcelona is quite easy when travelled through the 10 minutes ride on metro trains of Spain. If you are a walking fan then it will take around 40 minutes to reach the destination from center of Barcelona and 15 minutes from the Sants Estacio, one of the main metro stations of Barcelona.
One can even take up the sightseeing tourist bus that will drop off directly at the destination. There are many such tourist buses operating from the center of the town to Placa d’ Espanya through out the day.
If you want to hire a car then just follow the google maps and the local signboards along the road. While reaching your destination you can easily park your car at one of the many car parking available nearby.