Joan Antoni Samaranch Olympic and Sport Museum

The Joan Antoni Samaranch Olympic and Sport Museum sits on Montjuïc hill in Barcelona, right in front of the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium. It's the kind of site visitors often walk past without noticing, which is a shame — for anyone curious about the story behind the 1992 Summer Olympics, this is one of the more meaningful stops in the city.

What's inside the museum?

The museum opened its doors in 2007 as a space dedicated to the history of the Olympic movement and sport more broadly. In June 2010 it took on its current name, honouring Juan Antonio Samaranch, who served as president of the International Olympic Committee from 1980 to 2001 and played a central role in bringing the 1992 Summer Olympics to Barcelona. His tenure coincided with the transformation that reshaped the city and cemented its reputation on the international stage.

The exhibitions trace the story of the Olympic movement from its ancient origins through to the modern era, giving particular attention to Barcelona's role as host of one of the most celebrated editions of the Games. Visitors will find memorabilia tied to Olympic competition, displays connected to Samaranch himself, and material covering the logistics of staging an event on this scale.

How do you get there?

The museum stands at the heart of the so-called Olympic Ring (Anella Olímpica) on Montjuïc — the cluster of sporting facilities built or renovated for the 1992 Games. Its location next to the Olympic Stadium makes it easy to find: look for the stadium's distinctive silhouette and the museum is right beside it. The site pairs naturally with a visit to other Montjuïc landmarks, including the stadium itself, the telecommunications tower, and the surrounding green spaces.

What else is worth seeing nearby?

Montjuïc isn't only about sport — it's also one of Barcelona's best vantage points, with views stretching across the city and its port. It makes sense to treat the museum as part of a longer walk through this part of Barcelona, mixing Olympic history with the scenery and parkland the hill has to offer.

When's the best time to visit?

Montjuïc can get quite exposed to the sun in summer, so mornings or late afternoons are a good bet, especially if you plan to combine the museum with a walk around the hill. Visiting outside the busiest tourist months also tends to mean fewer crowds.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is the museum located? On Montjuïc hill in Barcelona, directly in front of the Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium, within the Olympic Ring complex.

Why is the museum named after Samaranch? It was renamed in 2010 in honour of Juan Antonio Samaranch, IOC president from 1980 to 2001, who played a key role in preparing Barcelona for the 1992 Olympics.

When was the museum established? It opened in 2007 and has carried its current name since 2010.

Is it worth combining with other Montjuïc attractions? Yes — its proximity to the Olympic Stadium and other sporting venues makes it a natural stop on any tour of this part of the city.