Barcelona Weekend Break

Monument a Colon

The name may appear slightly odd (it is Columbus' name in Spain), but this monument commemorates the discovery of the New World by sailor and explorer Christopher Columbus.

The "Monument a Colon" is at one end of Barcelona's most famous street, las Ramblas, and it is topped with a massive likeness of Columbus pointing at America – except of course for that fact he is pointing in the wrong direction.

The statue is a major landmark in Barcelona and it sits on a massive cast iron column which was built for the 1888 Universal exhibition.

The column contains a stair and an elevator, both allowing you to travel to a level just below Columbus' feet. From this small glass enclosed room there are great views of the city and many of the main landmarks are visible (and indicated on the panes of glass through which you view them).

The cost of accessing the viewing level is a mere 2 euros and it is money well spent.

Tourist Information

If you wish to ascend the "Colon", be aware that the lift is very small, the stairs steep and higher than they may at first appear, and the ultimate destination some what restricted. Try to visit early in the day.

Additionally, the monument periodically closed for renovation and maintenance and may not always be open.