Close to the top of Montjuïc mountain, we find the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys, an important part of the modern history of Barcelona.

This huge stadium, built in 1927, has lots of history in its walls. For example, in 1936, it was a refugee camp because of the Civil War and it was remodeled in 1986 to increase the capacity in order to host the 1992 Olympic Games.

During the Olympic games, it was in this stadium where the famous opening ceremony with an archer firing a flaming arrow to light the Olympic torch took place.

After the conclusion of the Olympic games, the stadium has had many different functions. It was the headquarters for the American football team Barcelona Dragons (1991-2003) and football team RCD Espanyol (1997-2009). The Catalan national football team also played some matches here – I remember going to see them play against Tunisia’s national team.

Inside the stadium you’ll find some panels with pictures and information about the history that hides behind this historic stadium.

It has also staged massive concerts by artists such as The Rolling Stones, Madonna, Bruce Springsteen, Prince etc.

It is free to visit and walk around and they even have a café inside, Café Olímpic. They close at around 19:00.

Next to the stadium you’ll find the Museu Olímpic i de l’Esport.