Barcelona's Former Bullring
La Monumental Barcelona: History and Tour of the Former Bullring
La Monumental is one of the most unique buildings in the Eixample. Inaugurated in 1914, this former bullring is instantly recognizable by its facade with Mudejar and Byzantine influences. Bullfights have been absent since 2011, but La Monumental is still used today for concerts, festivals, and events.
An iconic former bullring in the Eixample, La Monumental stands out for its Mudejar and Byzantine architecture and now hosts concerts and events.
- Former Bullring
- Mudejar Architecture
- Concerts and Events
- Near the Sagrada Família
At a Glance
La Monumental at a Glance
| Name | Plaça de Toros Monumental de Barcelona |
|---|---|
| Common Name | La Monumental |
| Type | Old arenas / event venue |
| Neighborhood | Eixample – Fort Pienc |
| Address | Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 749 |
| Inauguration | 1914 |
| Expansion | 1916 |
| Architects | Manuel Joaquim Raspall, then Ignasi Mas i Morell with Domènec Sugranyes |
| Style | Noucentisme, Mudejar and Byzantine influences |
| Capacity | Approximately 19,500 people |
| Last Bullfight | September 25, 2011 |
| Current Use | Concerts, festivals, and events |
| Interior Tour | According to the opening and the schedule |
| Must-See Attractions | Façade, towers, arena, exterior architecture |
| Metro | L2 Monumental |
| Good to Know | Not to be confused with the old arenas of Plaça Espanya |
Must-See
What to See at La Monumental?
© Fred Romero, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Monumental Façade
© Fred Romero, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Mudéjar Towers and Decorations
© Maurizio Ceol, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Arena
La Monumental in Concert
Don't make a special trip just for La Monumental: instead, enjoy a journey to the Sagrada Família or Glòries and pass by it.
The exterior can be quickly admired. However, if a concert or event is scheduled during your stay, it's a great opportunity to also see the interior of the old arena.
Unique Architecture
Why is La Monumental Special?
La Monumental is especially distinguished by its architecture.
When it opened in 1914, the building, then called El Sport, had a much more modest façade. Due to its success, the arena was expanded in 1916 under the direction of Ignasi Mas i Morell, with the collaboration of Domènec Sugranyes.
It was during this expansion that the Mudéjar and Byzantine inspired elements were added, giving the building its now recognizable appearance.
Over a Century of History
The History of La Monumental
La Monumental was inaugurated on April 12, 1914 under the name El Sport before being expanded and renamed Monumental in 1916.
For nearly a century, it was the main bullring in Barcelona and also hosted numerous shows and events.
During the Spanish Civil War, the building was notably used as a garage and equipment depot.
The last bullfight took place on September 25, 2011. The ban on bullfighting in Catalonia came into effect on January 1, 2012.
A New Life
What Is La Monumental Today?
La Monumental is no longer used for bullfights, but the building is not abandoned.
The former arena now hosts concerts, festivals, markets, and cultural events.
Access to the interior largely depends on the schedule, so do not consider La Monumental as a monument open permanently with regular visiting hours.
Not to be confused with
La Monumental or the Arenas de Barcelona?
Barcelona has two historic bullrings that are often confused.
La Monumental is located on Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, near the Sagrada Família. It still serves as a major event venue.
The former Arenas de Barcelona, located on Plaça Espanya, have been completely transformed into a shopping center.
In the Eixample
La Monumental in the Eixample
La Monumental is located in the Fort Pienc area, between the Sagrada Família, Plaça de les Glòries, and the Arc de Triomf.
Its location makes it easy to include in a stroll between the major monuments of the Eixample and the more contemporary Glòries area.
Things to See Nearby
What Other Places to Visit?
To continue your exploration of the city, check out our selection of Barcelona's monuments, from Gaudí's great masterpieces to historical and contemporary landmarks.
© Barcelona.com
The Sagrada Família
The Sagrada Família is about a ten-minute walk away and is naturally the major attraction to pair with La Monumental.
© Disseny Hub
The Disseny Hub Barcelona
The Disseny Hub Barcelona, located near Glòries, houses the Design Museum of Barcelona in a highly recognizable contemporary building.
© Alvesgaspar, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Encants of Barcelona
The Encants Market is one of the oldest flea markets in Barcelona. Its large mirrored roof and numerous stalls make it a unique visit, just a few minutes' walk from La Monumental.
FAQ
FAQ: La Monumental Barcelona
Access to the interior today mainly depends on the scheduled concerts and events. La Monumental is not set up as a tourist attraction open all the time.
No. The last bullfight held at La Monumental took place on September 25, 2011.
Yes. The old arenas regularly host concerts, festivals, and musical events.
La Monumental is located at 749 Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, in the Eixample. The nearest metro station is Monumental, line L2.
Yes. La Monumental is located about 10 minutes on foot from the Sagrada Família, making it easy to visit both sites.