While many visitors arrive at Plaça d’Espanya merely for its transportation connections, take the time to admire the plaza for itself. Dominated by a huge art nouveau fountain by Josep Maria Jujol that celebrates the water that has marked all of Spanish history, and especially the history of Barcelona and Catalonia, the plaza is also surrounded by impressive examples of Spanish architecture. Before setting out to nearby sites, take a lap around the rotary to look at the statuary of the fountain and the sites that surround it.
Come out of the subway and look back at the fountain in the sun, with splashing water passing through its statues. Notice the main sculptures designed by Miquel Blay, depicting the three seas surrounding Iberia and its three main rivers, the Tagus, the Ebro and the Guadalquivir. Spot the figures representing abundance, health and navigation, designed by the Osté brothers. Look up to see the cauldron on top created by Frederic Llobet. On a sunny day, notice how the sun glints off the bronze, setting off the strength of the wrought iron.
Behind the fountain, admire the Venetian Towers, inspired by the forms of one of Barcelona’s main historic commercial rivals. Peer down the street to see a majestic view of the Montjuïc, with the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc’s enormous towers of water in the foreground. Shop in the Las Arenas Shopping Center or climb to the top of the old bullring that houses it for a panoramic view of the whole neighborhood.
The Plaça d’Espanya is Sants-Montjuïc’s transportation hub, extremely easy to access from most other places in Barcelona. Drive from the airport in 15 minutes or take the subway in 25 minutes. Central Barcelona is a 15-minute subway ride or 10-minute drive away. Reach the plaza in 30 minutes by subway from the Sagrada Família. Most of the exhibits from Barcelona’s 1929 International Exposition are walking distance away. Buses also run through the area.
The plaza itself does not close, though the attractions that surround it do have varying hours. Check online for schedules.
