Duana de Barcelona, Neoclassical palace in Sant Pere district, Barcelona, Spain
The Duana de Barcelona is a neoclassical palace featuring a symmetrical H-shaped layout with a monumental facade adorned with sculptural elements and a prominent central section. The structure includes separate entrances and exits specifically designed to facilitate systematic inspection of goods arriving at the port.
This customs house was built between 1895 and 1902, replacing an older 18th-century structure located near Port Vell. The new building was constructed to manage the growing maritime trade more effectively as Barcelona's port expanded.
The building displays Central European artistic influences through sculptural pairs of griffins and large eagles created by sculptor Eusebi Arnau. These ornaments reflect the artistic standards of the era when the structure was completed.
The structure sits near the waterfront and is easily accessible from the city center on foot. Best visited during daylight to fully appreciate the architectural details and sculptural work on the facade.
The word 'Aduana' appears in large capital letters across the central section alongside the Spanish coat of arms. This prominent inscription immediately signals the building's original purpose to anyone passing by.
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