History of the Ciutadella Park

The Parc de la Ciutadella (The Citadel Park) is the main park of Barcelona, ​​which also includes the Catalan Parliament, the zoo and the museums of zoology and geology. The park is situated in the eastern side of the city, El Born quarter, a few minutes walk from the Gothic quarter (Barri Gotic).

In the past, it was a fortress built by Philip V to protect the city during the War of the Spanish Succession. Since the citadel was not manned usually it has become a prison, and also a symbol of oppression in Barcelona. It symbolized the suppression of the city and the Catalan nation until the city’s resurgence in the 19th century (for additional information – History of Barcelona).

As soon as the Catalans regained autonomy in the 19th century, the fortress turned from a symbol of oppression to a symbol of renewed national revival. The citadel building was converted into the Catalan parliament, the prison structure was changed into a beautiful fountain, and the fortress gardens were replaced by a huge park that includes museums and a zoo. There is no entry fee to the park.

Tips and Recommendations for Visiting the Ciutadella Park

• Upon your visit to the park you can also visit the Arc de Triomf (Triumphal Arc), the Museu De La Xocolata (Chocolate Museum), the Museu Picasso and the Church of Santa Maria del Mar as well as other sites of El Born quarter. 
• The visit is recommended in the afternoon, when all the residents of the city go out to the park with their children and dogs. Moreover, it is not recommended to arrive to the area at night.
• In the park, there are some free events and fairs during the summer and spring months (for additional information – Kids and Families in Barcelona).
• El Born district next to the park is an area worth visiting. Do not miss one of the world’s most prestigious boutiques, Bubo, which is close to the park. Also in the area are the Hofmann patisserie and Cal Pep Restaurant.

Tips for Timeout in Ciutadella Park:

• While visiting it is recommended to take pictures at the photo facilities, rent a boat and have coffee at the foot of the fountain.
• It is recommended to have a meal in the park, especially for those who are interested in a romantic picnic – This is one of the popular picnic areas.

Tips for Transportation to Ciutadella Park:

• It is recommended to reach the park by public transportation, especially by the metro. For those who rent a car, there is a paid parking lot next to the park. It is not recommended at all to reach the area by car, and generally it is not worth traveling with a car if you are traveling only inside the city (for additional information – Car Rental in Barcelona and Car Rental in Spain).

• Nearby there is a station of the Hop-on Hop-off bus red line (for additional information – Hop-on Hop-off Bus Map).

Tips for Hotels near Ciutadella Park:

• Accommodation in the vicinity of the park is highly recommended for those who want to be close to central attractions. Another advantage is the relatively cheap prices. Accommodation in this area is recommended for families with children (for additional information – Hotels near Parc de la Ciutadella and Family-friendly Hotels in Barcelona). 

Recommended Blogs and Articles About Ciutadella Park:

• Beautiful Park de la Ciutadella and its surroundings at ShBarcelona
• Parc de la Ciutadella at Lifestyle Barcelona