Castell dels Tres Dragons & Greenhouses – Ciutadella Park Barcelona

Explore the Three Dragons Castle and refurbished Hivernacle greenhouse in Ciutadella Park. Historic architecture, photo spots, and link to the new science museum

by: Barcelona Travel Hacks Views: 3.2k

About the Three Dragons Castle & Greenhouses

When you visit Parc de la Ciutadella, you won’t miss the striking red-brick castle in the corner of the park. This is the Three Dragons Castle (Castell dels Tres Dragons), originally designed to house the main restaurant of the trade fair during the Universal Exhibition of 1888. The name “Three Dragons Castle” was likely inspired by the 1865 play by Serafí Pitarra.

Three Dragons Castle History

Hivernacle del Parc de la Ciutadella

Museu Martorell Building & Jardins Fontserè i Mestre

Umbracle del Parc de la Ciutadella

Image Gallery For the Three Dragons Castle & Greenhouses

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Visiting the Three Dragons Castle & Greenhouses

Located in the northeast corner of Parc de la Ciutadella, the Three Dragons Castle and surrounding greenhouses are architectural gems from the 1888 Universal Exhibition. While the castle itself remains closed for restoration, the area is rich in history and visual appeal.

The standout attraction today is the Hivernacle greenhouse, which has been fully refurbished and reopened. Designed by Josep Amargós i Samaranch, this elegant iron-and-glass structure features three naves and showcases the coat of arms of Barcelona on both its interior and exterior. Originally built to house tropical plants, it now serves as a peaceful retreat and one of the best photo spots in Ciutadella Park, especially in the morning light when the glass glows with reflections of the surrounding greenery.

Nearby, the Umbracle greenhouse — also designed by Amargós — remains closed but is slated for future restoration. Its unique design once supported the growth of subtropical species like hydrangeas, gardenias, and ficus under filtered sunlight.

Although the Martorell Museum and Three Dragons Castle are not currently open to the public, their façades and surrounding gardens offer a glimpse into Barcelona’s scientific and architectural heritage. These buildings once housed the city’s Natural Sciences Museum, which has since relocated to a modern facility in the Forum district. You can learn more about the new venue here: Natural Sciences Museum – Forum.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, architecture lover, or photography fan, this corner of Ciutadella Park offers a quiet, visually rich experience that connects past and present.

Accessibility & What to Bring

The Three Dragons Castle, Hivernacle, Umbracle, and Museu Martorell are all located within Parc de la Ciutadella, which is fully accessible via gravel and paved paths. The park is flat and open, making it suitable for wheelchairs, mobility aids, and pushchairs.

While the castle and Umbracle remain closed to the public, the Hivernacle greenhouse has reopened and is accessible for visitors. It’s a peaceful, shaded space ideal for relaxing or taking photos of the modernist glass-and-iron architecture and surrounding greenery.

What to bring:

Three Dragons Castle & Greenhouses Summary of Prices

Train/Bus Fare Entry Ticket Additional Information Train/Bus Fare Entry Ticket Additional Information Adult Zone 1 T-casual FREE Child € 1.25 FREE Notes Closed for refurbishment.

Getting to Three Dragons Castle & Greenhouses

Address: Parc de la Ciutadella, S/N, 08003 Barcelona

By Metro:

By Train: Estació de França is nearby and served by Renfe Rodalies and Regional trains.

By Bus: Several TMB bus lines stop near the park, with easy access from El Born, Barceloneta, and Eixample.

By Car: Saba Bamsa underground parking is available beneath Passeig de Lluís Companys.

Travel Tip: Use a T-Casual card for single journeys or a Hola Barcelona Travel Card for unlimited public transport during your stay.

Public Transport Guide

Map for the Three Dragons Castle & Greenhouses

Weather for the Three Dragons Castle & Greenhouses

Where to stay near Three Dragons Castle & Greenhouses

Nearby Attractions to the Three Dragons Castle & Greenhouses

Tags for the Three Dragons Castle & Greenhouses

Parc Cuitadella & Ribera Catalan Modernism Parks & Gardens Barcelona Metropolitan FREE Barcelona Metropolitan

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