Arc de Triomf facts for kids
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The Arc de Triomf (which means "Triumphal Arch" in Catalan) is a famous arch in the city of Barcelona, Spain. It was built by an architect named Josep Vilaseca i Casanovas. The arch was created to be the main entrance for the big World Fair held in Barcelona in 1888.
This impressive arch stands over a wide street called the Passeig de Lluís Companys. This street leads directly to the Ciutadella Park, which is where the World Fair took place. You can find the Arc de Triomf at the northern end of this promenade, facing the Passeig de Sant Joan.
Design of the Arc de Triomf
The Arc de Triomf is made from reddish bricks and shows off a special building style called Neo-Mudéjar. This style often uses brickwork and designs inspired by old Spanish and Islamic art.
Look closely at the arch, and you'll see some amazing sculptures:
- The front part of the arch has a stone carving called Barcelona rep les nacions. This means "Barcelona welcomes the nations" in Catalan. It was made by an artist named Josep Reynés.
- On the back side of the arch, there's another stone carving called Recompensa (meaning "Recompense" or "Reward"). This artwork by Josep Llimona shows awards being given to the people who took part in the World Exposition.
- Along the sides of the arch, you'll find more sculptures. These show important ideas like farming and industry, created by Antoni Vilanova. There are also carvings about trade and art, made by Torquat Tassó.
- At the bottom of the two main pillars of the arch, you can spot bats carved into the stone. Bats were a special symbol for King Jaume I. He ruled during a time when Barcelona was very successful and prosperous.
Other Triumphal Arches Around the World
You might know that there are many famous arches like this in other cities around the world. Some well-known examples include the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, the Wellington Arch in London, and the Soldiers' and Sailors' Arch in New York City. There are also many old arches from the Roman era.
However, the Arc de Triomf in Barcelona is a bit different. Most triumphal arches celebrate military victories or brave soldiers. But Barcelona's arch was built for a peaceful reason. It was created as a grand gateway to the 1888 World Fair. Its purpose was to welcome people from all over the world to the fair, not to celebrate a war.
See also
In Spanish: Arco de Triunfo de Barcelona para niños
- Arc de Triomf metro station
- Arc de Triomf railway station
