Barcelona: Columbus Monument

Explore the history of the Columbus Monument, built for the 1888 Exposición Universal de Barcelona to honor the explorer's first voyage to the Americas in 1492. Admire the bronze statues of the 4 winged victories at the base, and then ride the lift to the top of the 60-meter tall Corinthian column for some of the most breathtaking views of Barcelona. Look across the rooftops of the Gothic Quarter and see the bell towers of the cathedral and seafarers' church of Santa Maria del Mar. Watch the hustle and bustle of La Rambla from up high and look across at Montjuïc Castle and Les Drassanes Reials (Royal Shipyards of Drassanes), now home to the Museu Marítim (Maritime Museum) If you follow the coastline, you'll be able to make out the modern Forum area with its characteristic photo-voltaic roof and skyscrapers. Closer to you, the twin towers mark the entrance to the Olympic Marina. Look down at Port Vell (Old Harbor) and across to the Parc Natural de Collserola, the vast green "lung" surrounding the city. Cast your eyes to the horizon for views of the Torre de Collserola (Collserola Tower) and Tibidabo Amusement Park at the top of Tibidabo Hill.