The Castle of the Three Dragons stands in Ciutadella Park, Barcelona. Lluís Domènech i Montaner designed the Modernisme building as a café and restaurant for the 1888 Universal Exposition. Its castle-like exterior is a rewarding stop on a walk through the park, where fountains, ponds and wild birds add to the visit. The Natural History Museum has moved, and the building is reported as closed to the public, so check the museum’s current access information before planning to go inside.
Built for the 1888 Universal Exposition
Lluís Domènech i Montaner designed the Castle of the Three Dragons as a café and restaurant for Barcelona’s 1888 Universal Exposition. Construction took place between 1887 and 1888. The building’s familiar name may have been inspired by Serafí Pitarra’s 1865 play.
Its castle-like form can suggest a medieval building, but it is an example of Catalan Modernisme. The exterior is the main reason to stop here today.
Museum access and the park
The building later housed the Natural History Museum, which has since moved. The information available about public access is unclear, and the castle has been reported as closed to visitors. Check the museum’s official website before setting out if you hope to enter.
You can still include the exterior in a walk through Ciutadella Park. Fountains, ponds and wild birds are nearby, and the area around the building can have street performances.
FAQ
Can you go inside the Castle of the Three Dragons?
The Natural History Museum has moved, and the building has been reported as closed to the public. Check the museum’s official website for current access information.
What was the Castle of the Three Dragons built for?
Lluís Domènech i Montaner designed it as a café and restaurant for the 1888 Universal Exposition in Barcelona.
Where is the Castle of the Three Dragons?
It is in Ciutadella Park in Barcelona.
