Cascada Monumental

The Cascada Monumental is a neoclassical fountain structure in Parc de la Ciutadella with a central triumphal arch, two side pavilions, and wide double staircases. The site features multiple water basins and jets that animate the entire composition.

The fountain was designed and built in 1875 by José Fontseré Mestre for the 1888 Universal Exposition. Antoni Gaudí contributed to the hydraulic engineering, leaving his influence on this major project.

The fountain displays classical mythological sculptures like The Birth of Venus by Venancio Vallmitjana and The Aurora Quadriga. These artworks shape the site's appearance and tell ancient stories that visitors encounter as they move through the space.

Both sides of the fountain are accessible through lateral staircases, offering different viewpoints of the water features and the surrounding park. You can experience the site from various heights and discover all aspects of the design.

Beneath the main structure lies an artificial grotto that functioned as an aquarium until the 1930s. This underground space was decorated with Neptune figures and stalactite-like ornaments and was one of the park's special attractions at the time.

Location: Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i la Ribera

Inception: 1875

Creator: José Fontseré Mestre

Architectural style: Neoclassical architecture

Length: 8,020 m

Address: Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, Spain

Website: http://paradoxesdelavida.blogspot.com.es/2014/03/iv-la-cascada-i-el-naixement-de-venus.html

GPS coordinates: 41.38985,2.18654

Latest update: December 10, 2025 08:29