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The Citadel
The Citadel Park (Parc de la Ciutadella) is one of the most emblematic green spaces in Barcelona, located in the district of Ciutat Vella. Inaugurated in 1881, it covers more than 17 hectares and offers a combination of nature, culture and history. It is an ideal place to stroll, play sports or enjoy a quiet atmosphere in the heart of the city.
History and construction
The origin of the park dates back to 1715, when King Philip V ordered the construction of a military citadel after the War of the Spanish Succession. This fortress, designed to control the city, involved the demolition of more than 1,000 homes in the La Ribera neighborhood. In 1869, General Prim returned the citadel to the city on the condition that it be transformed into a public park.
The project was commissioned to the architect Josep Fontseré, who, with the collaboration of a young Antoni Gaudí, designed the park we know today. In 1888, the park was one of the main venues of the Universal Exposition of Barcelona, an event that prompted its development and the construction of several of its most emblematic buildings.
Architectural features
The park stands out for its diversity of architectural and sculptural elements. One of the most notable is the Monumental Waterfall, designed by Josep Fontseré in 1881, with the possible collaboration of Antoni Gaudí. This neoclassical fountain with modernist elements represents the birth of Venus and is adorned with mythological figures and animals.
Also famous is the sculpture of the Stone Mammoth, a life-size representation created in 1907, which has become a symbol of the park. Another iconic piece is The Umbrella Lady, a sculpture of a woman holding an umbrella, located above a fountain and designed in 1884 by Joan Roig i Solé.
Cultural and tourist importance
The Parc de la Ciutadella is a meeting point for locals and tourists, offering spaces for leisure, culture and education. It houses the Barcelona Zoo, the Parliament of Catalonia and several museums, such as the Martorell Museum and the Castle of the Three Dragons. It is also the scene of numerous cultural activities and festivals throughout the year.
Curiosities
One of the key moments in the park’s history was the Universal Exposition of 1888, when many of its most emblematic buildings were built. It is also interesting to note that the park houses the sculpture of a stone mammoth, one of the most photographed by visitors.
In 2027, the “Paseo de la Biodiversidad” will be inaugurated, a walkway that will cross the Barcelona Zoo, connecting the Vila Olímpica with Ciutat Vella and improving the park’s integration into the city.
How to get to the Citadel Park
Metro: Line L4 (yellow), Ciutadella-Vila Olímpica station.
Tramway: Line T4, Wellington stop.
Bus: Several bus lines have stops near the park.
Train: The Arc de Triomf train station (Rodalies Line R1) is within walking distance.
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