Castell de Montjuïc

The views from the Castell de Montjuïc are spectacular, making it a favourite spot for an excursion on the cable car as well as a cool place to escape to during on a hot night in July, when its moat turns into a giant outdoor film festival (see below). But historically this castle has hardly been one of the city’s favourite spots, more a symbol of oppression; not long ago they were still selling Francoist souvenirs in the gift shop.

In 2009, after the central government graciously ceded ownership of the castle to Barcelona, the city staged an 'invasion' by 40,000 citizens, followed by a joyous festival of Catalan music, dance, castellers and protest songs from the 70's. Right now, the place is being restored as an 'interpretive centre'.

For centuries, a tower stood here as a beacon on Montjuïc’s 558-ft seaward brow, guiding Barcelona’s fishing fleet home. In 1640, at the approach of the Castilian army of Philip IV during the Reapers’ War, this tower was speedily converted into a fort. It didn’t do much good; Barcelona was starved into submission.