If you’ve ever been to Barcelona, you know the city has beautiful architecture. La Sagrada Familia, Parc Güell, and the Joan Miro park are just a few of the most well-known spots. Although these gems are must-see’s, visitors will also encounter beauty in rather ordinary places throughout the city. Las Arenas de Barcelona is one such example. This shopping mall, housed in a 1900s era bullring, is the perfect place to bring your family to enjoy architecture, shopping, restaurants, a 360-degree view of the city, and so much more.
A little History on Las Arenas
Las Arenas de Barcelona has not always been the shopping mall we know it as today. Although the building has served many purposes over the years, it was initially a bullring. When the building was created in 1900 by Augusto Carreras, it was called The Plaza de Toros de las Arenas. However, during the Spanish Civil War, it took on a new purpose, becoming the headquarters of the anti-fascist Republican party. After the end of the war, in 1939 Las Arenas began serving its original function, while also taking on a new dimension. The arena continued to host bullfighting matches and also became the venue for various sporting events, circuses, and fairs.
In 1977, Las Arenas held its last bullfight. The popularity of bullfighting had steadily decreased due to animal cruelty concerns, and in the 1980s, anti-bullfighting campaigns began. In the 2000s, Barcelona became an anti-bullfighting city, and by 2010 the autonomous region officially banned the practice. After it hosted its last match, the building remained empty. But, in 2011, the arena was remolded and re-opened as a shopping center.
Las Arenas Now
While you won’t be able to see any bullfighting matches during your time in Barcelona, you can enjoy the beautiful architecture of the building that hosted the iconic Spanish tradition. After looking at the gorgeous façade of the traditionally styled building, head inside to explore the six-floor shopping center. With shopping, restaurants and bars, an exercise facility, movie theatre, and 360° panoramic view of the city, everyone in the family is sure to enjoy spending a few hours exploring Las Arenas.
Shopping and Restaurants
While you don’t need to like to shop to enjoy an afternoon in Las Arenas, it certainly doesn’t hurt! So, for those who do want to shop for themselves or their children, look no further. Las Arenas hosts a variety of clothing, accessories, and shoe stores to suit all age ranges and styles. You’ll find both local brands, like Mango and Natura, as well as international ones like Calvin Klein, Sephora, and Pandora. Plus, there is a variety of children’s clothing and toy stores to explore, and there is an official FC Barcelona store, which is perfect for the sports enthused members of the family.
After you are all shopped out, enjoy a bite to eat or something to drink in one of the centers many cafes, restaurants, or bars. You’ll find sit down restaurants, fast-food joints, and snack kiosks, so you are sure to find something that suits every taste and price point. You can check out all the restaurants and stores Las Arenas has to offer here.
Interactive floor, Panoramic view, and More
Next, be sure to check out the interactive floor located in the center of the arena. The 64-square-meter LED screen is always a hit with the kids. While the images and content displayed on the floor changes, it is always interactive and touch-based. During our visit, the floor featured images of fallen leaves and rocks in a pond. As you move across the floor, the image moves and changes with you, which creates the illusion of kicking leaves or splashing in a puddle, which is a blast for kids.
From there, you can head upstairs, where you will find a twelve-screen movie theater, popcorn, and a gym and spa.
Before you leave, make sure to visit the very top of the Las Arenas, which is the perfect place to marvel at Barcelona’s beautiful skyline. Here you will find a terrace with a must-see 360° panoramic view of the city. The terrace has the perfect view of some of the city’s most famous monuments and places, like El Tibidabo, Plaza Espanya, the Magical Fountain, and Montjuic Castle. Unlike most 360° city views, you can check out the view from Las Arenas for free, and it’s the perfect place for a family photo op.
What’s Next?
After spending a few hours exploring Las Arenas, head next door to the Joan Miro park!
