Magic Fountain

One of Barcelona’s most dazzling attractions, the Magic Fountain, or Font Montjuic, was built in 1929 for the city’s World Exhibition, taking 3000 people almost a year to complete, and later restored during the 1992 Olympic Games. Taking center stage in Plaça Espanya at the foot of Montjuic Mountain, the Fountain is celebrated for its spectacular illuminations display, set against the majestic backdrop of the Montjuic Palace.

This is no ordinary lightshow – the Magic Fountain does its name justice with a kaleidoscope of shimmering fountains, syncing light, motion and music to dramatic effect. The breathtaking display is held throughout the year on weekend evenings (from Thursday to Sunday during summer), when the series of fountains spring to life each half-hour from 9.30pm until 11.30pm, for a vibrant 20-minute show.

Designed by Carles Buigas, the Magic Fountain is now one of Barcelona’s most popular tourist attractions, drawing almost 2.5 million annual visitors to the free shows. A range of uniquely choreographed spectacles captivate the audience on different nights, with soundtracks ranging from classical scores to a remix of Barcelona by Freddie Mercury and Montserrat Caballé, and the water acrobatics are performed by 3620 jets of water, reaching heights of 54 meters. For the most mind-blowing shows of the year, visit the Magic Fountain for the special Christmas or New Year’s Eve displays, or join the crowds for the annual ‘Piromusical’ show – the magnificent finale of Barcelona’s Merce Festival in September, with a show-stopping combination of fireworks, lasers, water and music.