Temple d'August — Attraction in Barcelona

The Temple of Augustus in Barcelona is a fascinating remnant of the city’s Roman past. It consists of four impressive Corinthian columns that once formed part of a large temple dedicated to Emperor Augustus during the Roman era, when the city was known as Barcino.

Key Facts about the Temple:

Historical Context: • Built in the 1st century BCE, the temple was part of the forum, the central public space of Roman Barcino. • The temple was dedicated to Emperor Augustus, who was worshipped as a god in Roman times. Location: • The columns are located in Carrer del Paradís, 10, in the heart of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. • They are housed inside the headquarters of the Centre Excursionista de Catalunya, an unassuming building that protects this incredible artifact. Architecture: • The preserved columns are made of sandstone and stand over 9 meters (30 feet) tall. • They are part of what was once a grand rectangular temple, estimated to have measured 37 by 17 meters. Discovery and Preservation: • The columns were rediscovered in the 19th century, having been hidden within medieval and modern constructions for centuries. • They were preserved thanks to the efforts of historians and conservationists who recognized their historical value.

Visiting the Temple:

The site is free to visit and offers a unique glimpse into Barcelona’s ancient history. It’s a small, hidden gem that many visitors stumble upon while exploring the Gothic Quarter, but it’s well worth seeking out for history enthusiasts.

The Temple of Augustus is one of the few physical traces of Roman Barcelona and serves as a reminder of the city’s...

THE BARCINO TEMPLE A "treasure" inside a medieval building, in the Gothic Quarter. It is surprising to find this jewel that many people in Barcelona don't even know about. It is located in the heart of the Old Town. At the entrance of the building we find a plaque "Mont Taber" (Mount Taber) and a figure 16.9 meters. That was the highest point top of the "Barcino Romana" (point where is the Temple of Augustus was located). From the 15th century onwards the columns and capitals of the temple that could be seen inside the buildings attracted much attention, prompting multimple interpretations as to their origin: a large sepulchre, a commemorative monument, a temple, the end of an aqueduct, among others. Until in the mid-19th century it was finaly proven that they belonged to the Roman temple. A monument that will surely...

The remains of the ancient Roman temple of Augustus are hidden away in a courtyard of a medieval house located in a small dark alley. Fortunately there is a sign that marks the entrance, otherwise no-one would ever be able to find it. What you will see upon entering the courtyard is not all that impressive, three columns and a lintel on top of a partially reconstructed base. Even though the site is not particularly awe inspiring, it is well preserved and maintained and there is an English language plaque that explains the history of the place. Worthy of a visit if you have...