Bunkers del Carmel, also known as Turó de la Rovira, is a historic site located on a hill in the El Carmel neighbourhood of Barcelona, Spain. It is an open-air viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the city of Barcelona and the surrounding areas.
The site was originally built as an anti-aircraft battery during the Spanish Civil War in 1937. After the war, the bunkers were used for various purposes until they were abandoned in the 1990s. In the early 2000s, the bunkers were restored and opened to the public as a cultural and tourist attraction. Nowadays it's really one of the best spots to just sit down, and take in the beautiful view of the city.
When to go to Bunkers del Carmel
Bunkers del Carmel is open to the public every day, and the entrance is free. However, it can get very crowded during peak tourist season (July-August) and on weekends, especially in the afternoon. To avoid crowds, it's best to visit early in the morning or during the weekdays. The site is also a popular spot to watch the sunset, so you may want to plan your visit accordingly.
How to get to Bunkers del Carmel
Bunkers del Carmel is located in the El Carmel neighbourhood of Barcelona. The easiest way to get there is by public transportation. The closest metro station is Alfons X (L4), from which you can take a bus or walk uphill for about 20 minutes. The bus lines that stop near the bunkers are 24, 28, 92, 119, and H6. If you prefer to drive, there is limited parking available on the nearby streets.
Pricing at Bunkers del Carmel
Entrance to Bunkers del Carmel is free. However, if you want to take a guided tour of the site, there are several tour companies that offer this service for a fee. The prices for these tours vary depending on the company and the type of tour.
Tours at Bunkers del Carmel
There are several tour companies that offer guided tours of Bunkers del Carmel. These tours can be a great way to learn about the history and significance of the site, as well as to get a more in-depth look at the bunkers and the surrounding area. Some of the tour companies also offer food and drink tastings, as well as other cultural activities.
Good to know before visiting Bunkers del Carmel
Bunkers del Carmel is an open-air site, so it's important to bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially during the summer months. The site can also be quite windy, so you may want to bring a jacket or a sweater. There are no facilities at the site, so bringing any food or drinks you may need is important. While, during the peak season, there are many people selling drinks at the bunkers, they often sell the drinks for inflated prices, and they only accept cash. Also, make sure to use the restroom before you arrive. It's also important to respect the site and its history, as it is a significant location for many locals.
Nearby attractions to Bunkers del Carmel
There are several other attractions in the El Carmel neighbourhood and the surrounding areas that you may want to visit while you're in the area. Some of the most popular attractions include:
Park Güell: A famous park designed by the architect Antoni Gaudí, featuring colourful mosaics, sculptures, and unique architecture.
Sagrada Família: A stunning basilica designed by Gaudí that is still under construction and has become an icon of Barcelona.
Gracia neighbourhood: A bohemian neighbourhood with a vibrant cultural scene, filled with art galleries, shops, restaurants, and bars.
Passeig de Gràcia: A famous shopping street with high-end fashion boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
Gothic Quarter: The historic centre of Barcelona, with narrow streets, ancient buildings, and many cafes and shops.
Pro tips for visiting Bunkers del Carmel
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds. The site can get very busy in the afternoons and on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.
Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk uphill. The walk to the bunkers can be steep and uneven, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and a hat. Bunkers del Carmel is an open-air site, so it's important to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated.
Bring your own food and drinks. There are no facilities at the site, so it's important to bring any food or drinks you may need.
If you're planning to buy drinks from street vendors, make sure to take cash with you, since they don't accept card.
Respect the site and its history. Bunkers del Carmel is a significant location for many locals, so be sure to respect the site and its history while you're there.
Try to visit during the sunset. Bunkers del Carmel is a popular spot to watch the sunset, so try to time your visit accordingly for a stunning view.
Take a guided tour to learn more about the site's history and significance. A guided tour can be a great way to learn more about Bunkers del Carmel and get a more in-depth look at the bunkers and the surrounding area.
Bring a camera. Bunkers del Carmel offers some of the best views of Barcelona, so be sure to bring a camera to capture the stunning views.
By following these pro tips, you can make the most of your visit to Bunkers del Carmel and have a memorable experience in Barcelona.
History of Bunkers del Carmel
During the Spanish Civil War, the hill on which the bunkers now stand was a strategic location for the Republican army, as it offered a clear view of the city and the coast. The anti-aircraft battery was built in 1937 to defend the city from the bombings of the Francoist forces. The battery consisted of four anti-aircraft guns and two machine guns, as well as several underground bunkers for shelter.
After the war, the bunkers were used for various purposes, including as a shantytown for immigrants and as a landfill. The area was also used for television and radio broadcasting, as well as for filming movies and commercials.
In the 1990s, the bunkers were abandoned and fell into disrepair. In the early 2000s, the local government of Barcelona decided to restore the site and open it to the public as a cultural and tourist attraction.
Overall, Bunkers del Carmel is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history and culture of Barcelona. With its stunning views, fascinating history, and convenient location, it's no wonder that it has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, Bunkers del Carmel is definitely worth a visit.