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The Columbus monument reopens

The observation tower can be visited once again, offering fabulous views of Barcelona from 60 metres up

Inaugurated in 1888 as part of the ceremonies for the Barcelona World Fair (or Expo), the monument dedicated to the discoverer of America, Columbus, who chose the port of Barcelona to disembark on his return, is one of the city’s favourite landmarks.

While the monument boasts iron lions at its base, a bronze sculpture of the discoverer himself mounted on top of a crown and a hemisphere, and a number of decorative bas-reliefs, its most popular feature is the observation point. Located at 60 metres from the ground at the top of the dedicatory Corinthian column, visitors can enjoy magnificent panoramic views from a position just below the point where the finger of the monument points towards the sea.

From the Montjuic mountain to the modern Fórum area, with its photovoltaic panels, visitors to the observation point can enjoy 360 degree views of such characteristic buildings as the Collserola tower, the Tibidabo, the bell tower of the cathedral, Santa María del Mar, the Sagrada Familia, the twin towers that mark the entrance to the Olympic Port, Port Vell and the industrial port area.

Whether it is close by or in the distance, the height of the monument allows visitors an overall view of Barcelona where one can distinguish the different urban districts as well as other important elements in the life of the city such as the Collserola Natural Park.

Publication date: Friday, 12 July 2013
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