On Montjuïc’s lower slopes in Barcelona, Jardins de Laribal is a terraced garden laid out for the 1929 World’s Fair. Its paths wind between varied greenery, fountains, ponds and tiled benches, with views across the city. Look for Font del Gat, the cat-inspired fountain, and the Escales del Generalife, a steep stairway whose side rails incorporate small aqueducts. The garden was Barcelona’s first public rose garden. Entry is free, and its quiet paths make it a good place to slow down between Montjuïc sights.
A garden planned for the 1929 World’s Fair
Jardins de Laribal occupies terraced ground on the lower slopes of Montjuïc. The garden was designed for Barcelona’s 1929 World’s Fair and takes its name from Josep Laribal, a lawyer and journalist whose estate once stood here.
Its layout gives the paths a more natural feel than the formal planting at nearby Jardins de Joan Maragall. Different sections offer places to walk, sit and find a little privacy among the greenery. The garden was the first public rose garden in Barcelona, and its planting remains one of the reasons to explore beyond the main routes.
Fountains, benches and the Generalife steps
Water is part of the garden’s character. Look for fountains and ponds along the paths, as well as Font del Gat, a fountain whose design takes inspiration from cats. Tiled benches provide places to pause among the planted terraces.
The Escales del Generalife form a long, steep route through the gardens. Inspired by the Alhambra, the stone steps have small aqueducts built into their side rails, with ponds and benches at intervals. The climb involves repeated steps, so take it at a pace that suits you.
A slower stop on Montjuïc
The garden works well as a walking break among Montjuïc’s sights. Its paths pass through several areas, and the combination of shade, greenery and city outlooks gives you options for a short pause or a longer wander. The Joan Miró Foundation is at the eastern end of the park, near the Escales del Generalife.
Entry is free. Garden maintenance can vary between areas, so the condition of individual paths and plantings may differ. For a more secluded stroll, choose a quieter time of day.
Perguntas frequentes
Is entry to Jardins de Laribal free?
Yes. Entry is free.
Where are Jardins de Laribal?
The gardens are on the lower slopes of Montjuïc in Barcelona, at Passeig de Santa Madrona, 2.
What should I see in Jardins de Laribal?
Look for Font del Gat, the terraced planting, fountains and ponds, and the Escales del Generalife with its aqueducts built into the side rails.
Are there steep steps in the garden?
Yes. The Escales del Generalife is a long, steep stone stairway, with benches and ponds along the climb.
