La sardana

Monument to the Sardana is a limestone sculptural group standing on Montjuïc hill in Barcelona, right in front of the Mirador de l'Alcalde gardens.

What does the monument show?

The sculpture depicts eight dancers with raised arms, performing the "llargs" figure — the long, elevated steps of the sardana, a dance considered a core symbol of Catalan identity. The limestone composition measures 2.61 metres in height and 4.72 metres in width. Carved into the base is the phrase "La sardana és la dansa més bella" ("The sardana is the most beautiful dance"), which sums up the sculptor's intent: a tribute to the dance itself rather than to any individual or historical event.

The monument was created in 1965 by Catalan sculptor Josep Cañas, working with collaborator Carles Amadon. It was formally unveiled on 19 March 1966, with the city's authorities in attendance, led by mayor Josep Maria de Porcioles.

How do you get there?

The monument sits inside Montjuïc park, right next to the Mirador de l'Alcalde viewpoint, which offers views over the port and the city. The easiest way up is by the Montjuïc cable car (Telefèric de Montjuïc) from the Poble Sec area, followed by a short walk along the park paths. A municipal bus route running through Montjuïc also stops a few minutes' walk from the square. Access to the site is free and available year-round.

Why has its setting changed over the years?

The sculpture's original 1966 placement was tied to the entrance of the Montjuïc amusement park, which operated from that year until its closure in 1998. After the park shut down, the statue remained in place, taking on a new role as a standalone viewpoint landmark and place of remembrance. On 25 April 2009 it was formally reinaugurated a second time, when a new plaque was unveiled reading "Barcelona a la colla sardanista Violetes del Bosc," honouring a local sardana dance group.

What happened with the vandalism and restoration?

In 2020 the monument suffered serious vandalism: the hands of all eight dancers were cut off, and some pieces were lost entirely. Restoration work was carried out by sculptor Abel Vallhonesta, who repaired two original sets of hands and arms and recreated the six other missing sets from scratch. The restoration was completed in 2022, returning the monument to its original appearance.

What else is worth seeing nearby?

Beyond the sculpture itself, the surrounding garden is worth a slow pause — it's one of the quieter corners of Montjuïc, less crowded than the hill's main viewpoints or the Olympic Stadium. The spot pairs well with a walk toward Montjuïc Castle or the Joan Miró Foundation, both within a similar walking distance.

Frequently asked questions

Who created the Monument to the Sardana? The sculpture was designed by Josep Cañas in 1965, with collaborator Carles Amadon. It was unveiled the following year, in March 1966.

What does the monument represent? It depicts eight figures dancing the sardana in the "llargs" figure, arms raised. The sardana is a traditional Catalan dance, and the inscription on the base declares it "the most beautiful dance."

Is there an entrance fee? No, the monument stands in an open area of Montjuïc park and can be visited free of charge at any time of year.

Is the monument still in its original condition? Not entirely — in 2020 it was seriously vandalized, with the hands of all eight dancers damaged or removed. A full restoration, including recreating the missing pieces, was completed in 2022.