Take in sweeping views at the Columbus Monument (Mirador de Colom).
Columbus Monument Lookout
Visitors who want quick city views and photo.
Hop in the elevator and head up to the top of Barcelona’s famous Columbus Monument for amazing views over the city, the harbour, and the Gothic Quarter.
Columbus Monument + Barcelona Seaside Tour
Visitors who enjoy leisurely walks, stories, and the waterfront vibe.
Take a leisurely stroll along Barcelona’s waterfront, discover its lively port, modern art, and rich maritime history, and wrap up at the iconic Columbus Monument.
Tip: Morning tours are less crowded and give better light for photos along the harbour.
Benefits
Tickets and Prices
There are two main ticket types for the Columbus Monument. Both give access to the monument and the panoramic viewing platform at the top.
- A standard adult ticket
- A reduced price ticket is available for children aged 4 to 12 and seniors over 65.
See more with the Hop-On Hop-Off Barcelona Bus!
Lashkhidzetim/DepositphotosVisit Columbus Monument and pass by Barcelona’s top attractions, from Sagrada Família to Park Güell, all with one affordable ticket.
Get The Best DealPlan Your Visit
| Season | Opening Hours | Last Entry |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Apr – Oct) | 8:00 – 20:30 | 20:00 |
| Winter (Oct – Apr) | 8:30 – 14:30 | 13:30 |
It closes annually on January 1, January 6, September 11, December 24, and December 25.
Tip:
It’s best to visit first thing on a weekday morning, when the light is softer and the crowds are smaller. You can soak in those sweeping views over Barcelona’s waterfront and Las Ramblas without interruption.
Getting to the Columbus Monument is a breeze, whether arriving by metro, bus or strolling down the lively La Rambla toward the sea.
You’ll find the main entrance at the monument’s base in Plaça de la Pau. Look for the large red information sign and stairs leading to the underground entrance, you can’t miss it.
Columbus Monument Barcelona
Plaça Portal de la Pau, s/n, Ciutat Vella, 08002 Barcelona, Spain · Google Maps
While there’s a lift inside the monument, the smaller viewing platform is unfortunately not wheelchair accessible. However, visitors with hearing impairments will find a magnetic loop system at the information desk to make their visit smoother.
What to See & Do
From the moment you step through the Columbus Monument’s underground entrance, you’re surrounded by stories of exploration, breathtaking city views, and a few surprises hidden beneath its iron frame.
Viewing Platform
mitzo_bs/DepositphotosHop into the lift that quickly travels up the narrow 51-meter column and rise to 360-degree views of Barcelona. From the top, you can gaze north to spot the Gothic Quarter, the Cathedral’s Gothic spires, and the busy Rambla below.
Look east to the glittering Mediterranean Sea and Olympic Marina, south to Montjuïc Hill crowned with its castle, and west toward the rolling greenery of Collserola Natural Park.
Fun fact: The original lift was Barcelona’s very first one. It used to take four minutes to reach the top, compared to today’s smooth 30-second ride.
Bronze Statue of Columbus
mychadre77/DepositphotosPeer up to see the 7.2-meter, 60-tonne bronze statue of Christopher Columbus sculpted by Rafael Atché. He points out to sea with his right hand, symbolizing his fearless voyages, while his left hand holds a scroll or navigational chart marked “Tierra” (land).
Base Sculptures
Elenarts/DepositphotosBack at ground level, don’t miss admiring the incredible detail carved into the base. The octagonal pedestal features four winged victories, representing triumph across the world’s four corners.
Below them, griffins keep watch alongside eight bronze medallions illustrating key figures who shaped Columbus’s journey, including Queen Isabella I of Castile, Ferdinand II of Aragon, and the Pinzón brothers.
Then the plinth has eight bronze bas-reliefs that capture pivotal moments from Columbus’s first voyage. Between these panels, you’ll spot the coats of arms of key cities connected to his journey, such as Salamanca, Santa Fe, and Havana.
Finally, the monument’s circular base is surrounded by four staircases, each guarded by a pair of majestic lion statues. These lions are popular photo spots and mark the perfect place to pause and admire the monument from below before heading up.
The Wine Cellar
Hidden beneath the monument is a small wine cellar and souvenir shop dedicated to Catalan wines and history. Pop in to sample a bottle or browse local gifts before heading back into the sunshine.
Explore the Surrounding Area
peresanz/DepositphotosFortunately, the Columbus Monument is conveniently located at the crossroads of some of Barcelona’s most famous sights. Choose between wandering up La Rambla, a lively boulevard lined with shops and cafes, or head into the Gothic Quarter and visit other historic landmarks like Barcelona Cathedral.
Alternatively, stroll toward Port Vell, where the marina, Barcelona Aquarium, and Maritime Museum make for a perfect afternoon of discovery.
Did You Know That? Facts
- It was built for the 1888 Universal Exhibition, showcasing Barcelona’s ambition and flair for progress.
- The statue at the top was initially supposed to be the Greek goddess Athena, but the city chose Columbus instead to mark the global fair.
- Despite popular belief, the statue doesn’t point toward America but the Mediterranean Sea, likely pointing to the sea as a symbol of exploration.
- The monument was funded almost entirely by private Spanish sources (12% public money) and built by 17 Catalan artisans.
Insider Tips
History
1856
Antoni Fages i Ferrer first proposed a monument to honor Columbus in Barcelona.
1872
The city mayor backed the project, giving it official support.
1881
A resolution was passed to officially build the monument.
1882 – 1888
Construction took place.
1888
The Columbus Monument was inaugurated during the Universal Exposition of Barcelona, and Gaietà Buigas i Monravà designed the iconic statue.
1889
The first hydraulic lift is installed inside the column, though it famously broke down on opening day.
1980s
Restoration work is carried out to preserve the monument’s structural and artistic integrity.
2013
After a major restoration, the monument reopened to the public as the Mirador de Colom (Columbus Lookout) in Catalan.
FAQs
How long does it take to visit the Columbus Monument?
A complete visit usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes.
Can I go to the top in a wheelchair?
Unfortunately, the viewing platform is not accessible to wheelchairs. See more details »
Are there toilets?
Yes, restrooms are available near the monument.
Can I take photos?
Yes, photography is allowed. But it’s a tight space, so respect other visitors and avoid using tripods.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
It’s highly recommended to book tickets online, especially during peak season. But it saves you money and guarantees entry, so it’s a win-win.
What is the dress code?
There’s no formal dress code. But you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes for climbing stairs and walking around the base.
Is there food nearby?
Yes, cafes and restaurants along La Rambla and Port Vell are within walking distance.