Our mission

Building the connection.

Located in Port Vell, it opened its doors in 1995 with the mission of promoting knowledge and respect for the oceans.

Since then, it has become one of Europe’s leading centres for marine outreach and an iconic landmark in the city of Barcelona.

Today, it is home to more than 11,000 organisms from around 600 different species, distributed across 80 Mediterranean and tropical aquarium that showcase the extraordinary biodiversity of marine ecosystems.

At L’Aquàrium de Barcelona, we work to bring marine science closer to society and promote ocean conservation through experiences that connect knowledge, emotion and environmental awareness.

Our mission is built on two fundamental pillars:

• Educational programmes that encourage knowledge and protection of the marine environment.
• Exhibitions and immersive experiences that present marine biodiversity in a rigorous, inspiring and participatory way.

Our history and legacy

Thirty years navigating alongside the sea.

For more than 30 years, over 40 million people have visited L’Aquàrium de Barcelona to discover a experience that combines leisure, emotion and environmental awareness.

Over these three decades, the centre has evolved into a benchmark for marine outreach. Science, environmental education and conservation come together through immersive experiences that bring the ocean closer to visitors of all ages.

Behind every visit is a multidisciplinary team of professionals in biology, education, veterinary medicine and maintenance, working every day to ensure animal welfare and provide a privileged window into the fascinating underwater world.

Scientific outreach and connection with marine life

Bringing science within reach.

L’Aquàrium de Barcelona develops outreach programmes, environmental education initiatives and awareness-raising activities for all audiences, bringing knowledge of the marine environment through immersive, interactive and participatory experiences.

The visit allows guests to discover some of the planet’s most fascinating ecosystems and species:

• Mediterranean ecosystems, from coastal waters to the deepest seabeds.
• Tropical aquariums inspired by iconic habitats such as the Red Sea, the Caribbean and the Great Barrier Reef.
• The Oceanarium, featuring 4.5 million litres of water and the longest underwater tunnel in Europe.
• Planet Aqua, a space dedicated to cold-water and freshwater ecosystems, home to penguins, piranhas and axolotls.
• Mangrove Forest, where nature and technology come together to explore some of the world’s most valuable ecosystems and the challenges they face.
• Immersive Room, where A Journey into the Depths invites visitors to reflect on the importance of ocean conservation.

Innovation and immersive spaces

Breathing technology.

Following its transformation in 2025, L’Aquàrium de Barcelona entered a new era marked by openness and innovation.

The renovation visually integrates the building with Port Vell and the city, increasing transparency across its façades and expanding panoramic views of Barcelona.

The visitor journey now includes new immersive experiences, such as 3D projections and Europe’s largest digital floor, immersing guests from the very first moment. These innovations reinforce a more technological, interactive and sensory visit that connects visitors with the sea through education and discovery.

Our team

Hands that care for life.

Our team is made up of professionals with extensive experience and a strong commitment to marine conservation:

• Marine biologists specialising in the study and conservation of the Mediterranean.
• Veterinarians and animal welfare specialists.
• Maintenance technicians and professional divers responsible for the proper functioning of the aquariums.
• Environmental educators who bring marine knowledge closer to all audiences.
• Researchers and science communicators who promote marine science and conservation.

Discover the daily work of an aquarist and experience what it means to help protect seas and oceans.

“Those of us who care for the animals every day know that our bond with them goes beyond work. Many recognise us, approach us when we pass by, and remind us why we dedicate our lives to protecting the sea.“
— Conservation and Animal Welfare Team, Barcelona Aquarium

Commitment to conservation

The future is blue.

Protecting our seas is an essential part of who we are.

At L’Aquàrium de Barcelona, we collaborate with universities and scientific organisations while following international standards for sustainability and responsible tourism.

The centre holds the BIOSPHERE certification, which recognises the integration of environmental, social and economic criteria into its activities.

These initiatives allow us to promote scientific outreach, contribute to animal welfare and generate a positive impact on both the marine environment and society.

Environmental education

Education flows too.

Our educational programme is one of the fundamental pillars of our mission.

We promote knowledge and respect for the marine environment as the foundation for building a more conscious, responsible and sustainable relationship with the sea.

An experience that leaves a lasting impression

To know is to love, to love is to protect.

Exploring L’Aquàrium de Barcelona means immersing yourself in a fascinating universe where science and emotion complement one another.

Throughout the visit you will encounter:

• Sharks swimming around you in the Oceanarium.
• Penguins playfully interacting in their habitat.
• Jellyfish drifting with graceful and hypnotic movements.
• Tropical ecosystems full of colour and biodiversity.
• Large Mediterranean communities, fragile and of great ecological value.

Every visit creates lasting memories and helps visitors understand the fragility of the ocean and the importance of its conservation.

Discover stories, science and conservation on our blog.

If you have any questions, consult our Frequently Asked Questions or contact us.