Montjuïc

Montjuïc is a prominent hill overlooking the city and port of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. The name Montjuïc is Catalan, commonly interpreted as "mountain of the Jews," though the exact origin is uncertain and the interpretation remains debated. The hill has long been used for fortifications; Castell de Montjuïc, a fortress at the summit, has guarded the city since the early modern era and has served as a military installation and, at times, a prison.

In the early 20th century, Montjuïc was developed for the 1929 International Exposition, which left a lasting architectural and cultural imprint. The Palau Nacional, built for the event, now houses the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya (MNAC). The Magic Fountain (Font Màgica) sits near Plaça d'Espanya and is a popular spectacle. The area also hosts CaixaForum Barcelona, a cultural center in a former textile factory, and the Fundació Joan Miró, the museum dedicated to the artist. The landscape includes extensive gardens, notably Jardins de Mossèn Ramon Folch i Torres and Jardins de Miramar, along with the broader Montjuïc Park network.

Montjuïc remains a central site for Barcelona's culture and recreation. It played a key role during the 1992 Summer Olympics, which led to the development of modern sports facilities such as the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys and related venues. Access is provided by funiculars and cable cars, as well as various bus routes, making Montjuïc a popular destination for visitors seeking museums, gardens, and panoramic views of the city.