In fact, Ciutadella Park, where the beautiful Cascada Fountain is located, has a dramatic history. It all began in the 18th century, when the formidable King Philip V turned against his own people, deciding to build a defensive fortress in the city, one in which it would be possible to shelter not only from enemies, but also from the civilian population. To do this, the tyrant ordered the homes of local residents to be destroyed in order to use this place and the materials for the construction of the Ciutadella. Worse still, the townspeople evicted from their homes were also forcibly sent to construction work!
However, a few decades later the fortress was destroyed, and it was decided to lay out a park in its place, one whose scale and beauty would forever eclipse the authorities' crimes against the people. Thus, by the end of the 19th century, Ciutadella Park was opened to the delight of Barcelona's residents.
Its real highlight became the beautiful fountain, which was built in 1881. Although initially it was pale and rather simple compared to the elegance of the rest of the park. Therefore, city sculptors were brought in to improve its appearance, among whom was the then still unknown architect Antonio Gaudi. The brilliant master made adjustments that noticeably transformed the fountain and gave it the unique look that we see now. It is precisely thanks to Gaudi that creatures from various myths and legends settled on the Cascada, and Aurora's quadriga appeared at the top.
