Tomba De Josep Clarà

Tomba de Josep Clarà: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide to Barcelona’s Historical Sites

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled within the emblematic Montjuïc Cemetery in Barcelona, the Tomba de Josep Clarà stands as a testament to both the artistic legacy of one of Catalonia’s foremost sculptors and the city’s rich cultural heritage. Josep Clarà i Ayats (1878–1958) was a leading figure in the Noucentisme movement, renowned for his Mediterranean-influenced classical style. His tomb is not only a place of remembrance but also an essential stop for those interested in Barcelona’s art history and funerary architecture. This guide provides comprehensive information on visiting the Tomba de Josep Clarà, including practical details, historical context, nearby attractions, and tips to make the most of your experience.

Introduction
About Josep Clarà and His Artistic Legacy
The Tomba de Josep Clarà: Artistic and Historical Significance
Visiting the Tomba de Josep Clarà
Guided Tours and Events
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Visual Resources and Multimedia
Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected
References and Further Reading

About Josep Clarà and His Artistic Legacy

Josep Clarà was an influential early 20th-century Catalan sculptor whose work epitomized the ideals of Noucentisme—order, serenity, and classical beauty inspired by Mediterranean traditions. Trained at the Escola de Belles Arts d’Olot and later in Toulouse and Paris, Clarà developed a style characterized by harmonious forms and balanced compositions. His works, such as the celebrated “La Deessa,” are prominent in Barcelona’s public spaces and museums, attesting to his enduring influence on Catalan art (Josep Clarà on Wikipedia; Fundació Vila Casas; Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya).

The Tomba de Josep Clarà: Artistic and Historical Significance

The tomb of Josep Clarà exemplifies early 20th-century funerary art and reflects the sculptor’s commitment to classical ideals. Modest yet elegant, the tomb features a simple stone slab engraved with Clarà’s name and dates, set among cypress trees and fellow artists’ graves. Its understated design is a direct expression of Clarà’s artistic philosophy—favoring balance, calm, and timeless form over ornate extravagance (Pobles de Catalunya).

Montjuïc Cemetery itself, inaugurated in 1883, is an open-air museum showcasing monumental funerary sculptures and the final resting places of many notable Catalans. The inclusion of Clarà’s tomb in this setting underscores the city’s reverence for its cultural icons and the enduring legacy of Noucentisme (Barcelona Turisme).

Visiting the Tomba de Josep Clarà

Location and Access

The Tomba de Josep Clarà is located within the Cementiri de Montjuïc, a sprawling cemetery on the slopes of Montjuïc hill, overlooking Barcelona and the Mediterranean.

Address:
Cementiri de Montjuïc
Carrer de la Mare de Déu de Port, 56-58
08038 Barcelona, Spain

Getting There:

Bus: Bus 21 from Plaça Espanya stops at the cemetery entrance. Other lines serving the area include 23, 37, 109, and 193.
Montjuïc Funicular: Connects Paral·lel metro station to Montjuïc; from the upper station, walk or take a bus.
Car/Taxi: Limited parking; early arrival is recommended. Taxis can drop visitors at the entrance.

(IR Barcelona – Montjuïc Cemetery)

Opening Hours and Tickets

Winter (November–March): 8:00–18:00
Summer (April–October): 8:00–19:00

Always check the official website for current hours.

Admission:

Entry to Montjuïc Cemetery and Clarà’s tomb is free. No ticket is required.

Navigating the Cemetery

Montjuïc Cemetery covers a vast area with winding, terraced paths. The Tomba de Josep Clarà is in a section dedicated to prominent artists, but wayfinding can be challenging.

Maps: Obtain a map at the main entrance or download from the official site.
Signage: Ask at the information desk for directions to Clarà’s tomb.
Guided Tours: Thematic tours (art, history) are available, often including Clarà’s tomb. Check the events page for schedules and to book in advance.

Accessibility

Paths: Main routes are paved, but some areas have steps and steep gradients.
Mobility: Visitors with reduced mobility should contact cemetery administration for accessibility advice.
Rest Areas: Benches are available at intervals, but facilities are limited.

Visitor Tips

Best Times: Weekdays and early morning or late afternoon offer the most tranquil experience and ideal light for photography.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection, and a map or GPS device.
Etiquette: Respect the site as an active cemetery—maintain quiet, avoid flash photography, and dispose of litter properly.

Guided Tours and Events

Public Tours: Guided visits focusing on funerary art and history, including the Tomba de Josep Clarà, are offered regularly (2nd and 4th Sundays of the month in Catalan and Spanish; private group tours in English by arrangement).
Special Events: Check cultural calendars for commemorative events or temporary exhibitions related to Clarà and Noucentisme (Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya).

Nearby Attractions

Enhance your visit by exploring other significant sites on Montjuïc:

Fundació Joan Miró: Modern art museum dedicated to Joan Miró.
Montjuïc Castle: Historic fortress with panoramic views.
Olympic Stadium Lluís Companys and Palau Sant Jordi: Iconic sports venues.
Magic Fountain of Montjuïc: Famous for its evening light and music displays.

(Barcelona.de – Montjuïc Cemetery; Mapcarta)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is there an entry fee?
No, entry to the cemetery and the Tomba de Josep Clarà is free.

Are guided tours available?
Yes, guided tours are offered in multiple languages and often include Clarà’s tomb. Advance booking is recommended.

What are the visiting hours?
Cemetery hours are generally 8:00–18:00 (winter) and 8:00–19:00 (summer). Confirm on the official website.

Is the site wheelchair accessible?
Some main paths are accessible, but terrain can be challenging. Contact cemetery staff for assistance.

How do I find the tomb?
Obtain a map at the entrance or ask staff for directions to the artists’ section.

Visual Resources and Multimedia

Photographs: The tomb’s classical lines and tranquil setting provide excellent photographic opportunities. Early and late daylight is best for photos.
Virtual Tour: Explore the Montjuïc Cemetery map online.
Museums: Discover more of Clarà’s works at the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya and Museu de la Garrotxa.

Alt text for images: “Tomba de Josep Clarà stone monument surrounded by cypress trees in Montjuïc Cemetery.”

Plan Your Visit and Stay Connected

For a seamless visit, download the Audiala app for interactive maps, guided tours, and up-to-date information on Barcelona’s historical sites. Follow us on social media for event updates, travel tips, and new articles highlighting the city’s artistic heritage.

References and Further Reading

Summary

Visiting the Tomba de Josep Clarà is a unique opportunity to engage with Barcelona’s artistic legacy and the evolution of Catalan cultural identity. Free entry, convenient access, and the availability of guided tours make it an accessible and rewarding destination for all visitors. The tranquil atmosphere, surrounded by the monumental art and history of Montjuïc Cemetery, provides a contemplative setting for honoring the memory of Josep Clarà and exploring the roots of Noucentisme. Complement your visit with nearby attractions and deepen your understanding by exploring museum collections and cultural resources.

For more cultural travel insights and to plan your journey through Barcelona’s historical sites, download the Audiala app or explore our additional guides online.