Portal del Bisbe

Portal del Bisbe is a stone gateway with towers in Barcelona's oldest quarter that connects the Palau de la Generalitat to the Cases dels Canonges. The structure features carefully carved stonework and is topped by an arched roof.

The gateway was built in 1928 and incorporates Roman architectural elements that reference the city's ancient walls. It was created during a period when Barcelona was rediscovering and restoring its medieval structures.

The gateway takes its name from the bishop and connects two important buildings tied to Barcelona's political history. This link shows how closely religious and secular power were intertwined in the medieval city.

The gateway is located near the cathedral and is easy to reach on foot, especially if you walk through the quarter's narrow lanes. Visitors should come in the morning to encounter fewer crowds and get better photographs.

Though built in 1928, the gateway skillfully imitates Roman-era styles and construction techniques, fooling many visitors. This intentional imitation makes it difficult to recognize the structure's actual age at first glance.

Location: Gothic Quarter

Architectural style: ancient Roman architecture

Part of: Roman city wall in Barcelona

GPS coordinates: 41.38401,2.17542

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:41