Have you ever wondered what it would be to look at Barcelona from an eagle’s perspective? Mirador Torre Glòries is an unforgettable experience which will allow you to rediscover the catalan city. You’ll be amazed by this double observatory from where the city can be contemplated with fresh eyes, whether you are a Barcelona newbie or you already know the city as well as a local.
The building
Designed by Jean Nouvel, Torre Glòries is an incredible glass skyscraper that has become a symbol of contemporary Barcelona.
The tower’s construction commenced in 2001 and was completed in 2005.
Jean Nouvel, just like the famous architect Gaudí, was inspired by the rounded forms of the Montserrat mountains, another of the symbols in the catalan culture.
The first layer of Torre Glòries covers the concrete wall. It is made of aluminum sheets lacquered in 26 different colors in earth, red, blue and gray tones, which fade as they go higher.
The warmer colors are near the floor and the coldest ones are at the top, scenery that represents the building’s temperature.
The second layer is formed by 52.744 transparent and translucent panes of glass, which evoke shiny and smooth water, full of filtered light.
Finally, the top has no color, it disappears visually, as a symbol of the fusion with the air.
It is one of the highest buildings in Barcelona, with a height of 144 meters. It resembles a geyser that rises from the ground and points to the sky.
The experience
The building offers 3 different spaces:
- The Hyperview: It is the first top on the visit to Mirador Torre Glòries. It is located at the bottom floor of the building and it is an observation deck but without windows. Sounds curious, right?
The Hyperview is a dynamic space with artistic installations created using data on Barcelona gathered in real-time. Visiting it makes it possible to enjoy the beauty of BCN’s big data and discover views of the city that are unknown to most of us.
A metropolis like Barcelona is so much more that we can perceive at first glance, and the Hyperview allows the visitor to understand the dynamic environment of relationships, transactions and flows.
2. The Observatory Deck: One of the primary reasons visitors flock to the Mirador Torre Glòries is the breathtaking panoramic views it offers. The tower’s observation deck, situated on the 30th floor, provides a 360-degree view of the entire city. From this vantage point, one can marvel at Barcelona’s diverse architecture, from the Gothic Quarter to the innovative modernist structures dotting the skyline.
On a clear day, visitors can admire the azure Mediterranean Sea stretching out before them, with the picturesque cityscape as its backdrop. The opportunity to witness the beauty of Barcelona from such a lofty position is an experience that leaves a lasting impression.
3. Cloud Cities: The highest point of the tower is dominated by an enormous multi-sensory work of art by the artist Tomás Saraceno, a master of the contemporary artistic movement. Its is a walk-in sculpture that uses the concept of clouds to reflect on the interdependence of all living beings.
Beyond the Views: A Cultural Hub
The Mirador Torre Glòries is not just a tower with stunning views; it also serves as a cultural and business hub. The lower floors house offices and meeting spaces, hosting a range of local and international businesses. The tower also provides space for exhibitions, conferences, and events that cater to Barcelona’s vibrant cultural scene.
Moreover, the tower’s ground floor features a public plaza that serves as a meeting point for locals and tourists alike. The plaza hosts art installations, concerts, and food markets, fostering a sense of community and providing a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can relax in the shade of the tower, soak in the energy of the city, and truly experience the spirit of Barcelona.
The Mirador Torre Glòries, with its striking design, breathtaking views, and vibrant cultural offerings, has become an indispensable part of Barcelona’s identity. Its architectural beauty has cemented its place as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, drawing visitors from around the world. Whether it is admiring the panoramic views, attending cultural events, or simply basking in the marvel of its design, a visit to the Mirador Torre Glòries is an unforgettable experience that encapsulates the essence of modern Barcelona.
You can visit the Mirador’s website to consult it’s prices and opening times at www.miradortorreglories.com
How to get there
Av. Diagonal, 209, 08018 Barcelona