Located in the Barceloneta district, this monument commemorates one of Barcelona’s most famous inventors and scientists – Narcís Monturiol i Estarriol.
Born in 1819, Monturiol was an engineer and inventor who dedicated his life to research and development in Catalonia. His work focused on improving both social conditions and industrial production techniques throughout Spain. One of his greatest accomplishments was inventing a steam-powered submarine called Ictíneo II, which he built with components from local industry. This invention made him well known all over Europe, as it was the first time anyone had ever created such a machine that could submerge underwater for long periods of time without any human intervention or control.
In addition to being an inventor, Monturiol was also involved in politics and social reform movements during his lifetime. He wrote several articles advocating democratic reforms during the early years of Spain’s Second Republic (1873-1874). He also founded many newspapers dedicated to freedom of speech before he passed away at age 55 due to tuberculosis complications caused by exposure while working on his submarine project.
The Monument to Narcís Monturiol stands tall near La Barceloneta beach as a reminder of this great man’s achievements for science and society alike. The structure consists mainly of bronze sculptures depicting scenes from different moments in Monturlio’s life, including when he presented Ictíneo II at its launch ceremony held at Port Vell harbor back in 1864. There are also inscriptions describing some highlights from his career along with quotes taken directly from some of his writings about democracy and progressivism which still remain relevant today more than 150 years later.
