Camp de Mart

Camp de Mart is a city park in Tarragona that stretches along the foot of the Roman walls, right beside Avinguda de Catalunya. It's one of the greenest corners of the city and a popular spot for a walk, a jog, or a bike ride in the shade of mature trees, with the ancient fortifications rising just above.

Where does the name come from?

The name recalls the site's original purpose: through the 19th century this ground served as a military drill field. It was officially inaugurated in 1871 under King Amadeo I of Savoy, and from 1883 it was formally used to train soldiers garrisoned in Tarragona. Ownership stayed with the Ministry of War until 1932, and it wasn't until the 1960s that the city took it over and turned it into a public park. Today Camp de Mart is listed as a local Cultural Asset of Interest (Bé Cultural d'Interès Local).

What is there to see inside the park?

The layout is informal, with hard-packed paths winding through lawns and plantings around a large artificial pond at its center. Scattered along the walkways are several commemorative monuments, including tributes to composer Richard Wagner, the victims of Mauthausen concentration camp, Spanish politician Blas Infante, and Chilean president Salvador Allende. This mix of everyday green space and layered historical memory gives the park a distinctive character you won't find in an ordinary city garden.

At the heart of the grounds stands the Camp de Mart Theatre-Auditorium, designed by architect Manuel Lamich Fontanet and opened in 1970. Its shape echoes a classical Greek amphitheatre, and a canvas sail canopy was added later over the seating area, extending the season for concerts and cultural events held there.

Why pair a visit with the Roman walls?

The park's biggest draw is its direct link to the Roman Wall and the Archaeological Walk (Passeig Arqueològic) — among the oldest and best-preserved defensive structures outside Italy, with foundations dating back to the late 3rd century BC. From the park's paths you get clear views of the fortifications and of the Archbishop's Tower (Torre del Arzobispo), a medieval structure built on solid Roman foundations. A stroll through Camp de Mart flows naturally into the wall walk, so it makes sense to plan both in one visit — 1 to 1.5 hours is enough to cover them at an easy pace.

How do you get there, and when is the best time to visit?

The park sits centrally in Tarragona, a short walk from the old town, at roughly 63 metres above sea level, so reaching it on foot from most parts of the city centre is straightforward. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times, when the sun is gentler and the tree cover plus proximity to the walls make for a comfortable longer walk. Spring and autumn bring the most pleasant temperatures for exploring on foot.

Frequently asked questions

Is entry to the park free? Yes, Camp de Mart is an open public park with free access throughout the day.

How much time should I set aside? Walking through the park alone takes 20 to 30 minutes, but combined with the Roman walls and the Archaeological Walk, plan for about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Are there cultural events held here? Yes, the Camp de Mart Theatre-Auditorium hosts concerts and cultural events, especially during the warmer months, thanks to its canopy-covered seating.

Is the park suitable for families with children? Yes, the flat, hard-packed paths and open lawns make it easy going for strollers and a comfortable spot to rest in the shade between other visits.