A decisive moment in the history of Barcelona hosted the 1992 Summer Olympics.
The city underwent extensive renovations in preparation for the events.
Did you know that even Barceloneta beach was renovated in preparation for the games?
Let's discover the other secrets hidden in this period of Barcelona's history.
Barcelona Olympic Games: article summary
Barcelona Olympics: what is the history of the Olympic Park?
Barcelona's Olympic Park is located on the mountain of Montjuïc. Here you will find structures such as the Palau Sant Jordithe telecommunications tower, as well as sports venues.
The centerpiece of all the facilities is the Olympic Stadium, known as Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys in Catalanin honor of the former president of the Catalan government. The stadium was originally built in 1927 for the 1929 International Exhibition held in Barcelona. It was also designed for the 1936 Olympic Games which were to be held in the city, but due to the political situation at the time, they never happened.
What to see at Barcelona's Olympic Park
The stadium, renovated in time to host the 1992 Olympic Games, retains its exterior shape. It can accommodate up to 60,000 people. Since its creation, it has been the scene of numerous sporting events, such as the European Athletics Championships.
It has also welcomed many internationally renowned artists such as : The Rolling Stones, Michael Jackson, AC/DC, Beyonce, Madonna and David Bowieto name but a few!
Barcelona Olympic Games: The telecommunications tower
The Montjuïc communication tower, also known as the Torre Calatravawas designed by Valencian artist Santiago Calatrava between 1989 and 1992. It's a huge structure, with a curved white silhouette that looks like an athlete carrying an Olympic torch.
The tower is 136 metres high. It is made of steel its base is covered with trencadísshards of broken tiles in tribute to the architect Antoni Gaudí. Elle peut être vue de partout dans la ville, devenant un
élément emblématique de Montjuïc et de tout Barcelone.The Palau Sant Jordi
Another big attraction in the Olympic Park is the Palau Sant Jordi, which translates as St. George's Palace in French. This is a sports arena, designed by Japanese architect Arata Isozakiwhich hosted sports such as gymnastics, handball and volleyball during the Games.
Today, it is used for a variety of indoor sporting events, hosting events such as the IAAF World Indoor Athletics Championships, the Davis Cup tennis tournament and the Men's World Handball Championship, among others. It has also hosted numerous other concerts and cultural activities, just like its neighbor, the Olympic Stadium!
Barcelona Olympic Games: Bernat Picornell swimming pools
Inaugurated in 1970 to celebrate the 12ᵉ European Aquatics Championships, the pools were then remodeled for the 1992 Olympic Games. The swimming events were held there, including diving and water polo.
The best part of these pools are the spectacular, panoramic views of Barcelona in the background. The fantastic photographs of diving with the Sagrada Familia in the background are among the most emblematic and memorable images of the Games.
Kylie Minogue also used the pools as a backdrop for her single "slow"! The outdoor pools are open all year round for public enjoyment. Opening hours are as follows longer during the summer months.
Europe's place
The Plaça d'Europa is the area where you'll spend most of your time. take a stroll as you enter the Olympic Parkwith spectacular views over the whole city. The venue has a minimalist design, with decorative pools and benches for sitting and relaxing.
I recommend going there at sunset to see the magnificent skyline, facing the Mediterranean and the whole of Barcelona.
Barcelona Olympic Games: The Olympic and Sports Museum
If you want to know more about the history of the Games, the Olympic Museum is a must-see! Located right next to the Olympic Stadium, it shows a global perspective on all sports disciplines. All aspects of sport are covered by the museum, from top-level competitive sports to leisure and disabled sports.
It's a sublime and interesting place to visit, as there are interactive sections to entertain children, as well as sports coverage.
If you're interested in the Barcelona Olympic Games, you won't want to miss a visit to the city's Olympic Park. Here you'll discover a magnificent setting that's perfect as a backdrop for your photos. You can also learn more about the games that have made the city proud.
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