Maqueta de Tarraco Tarragona
A stunningly detailed model of ancient Roman Tarraco, brought to life by an immersive mapping projection. A free glimpse into history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
English showtimes often on weekends.
Maqueta de Tarraco Tarragona
Best Time
English showtimes often on weekends.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunningly detailed model of ancient Roman Tarraco, brought to life by an immersive mapping projection. A free glimpse into history.
"AMAZING. The details are very good, the entree is free so if you can pass before watching the roman citi Tarraco you will make a very good view of 2nd century a.C"
🎯 Check Showtimes First
Mapping projections have specific times. Visit mappingtarraco.cat to confirm schedules before you go.
🎟️ Free Entry, Book Ahead
Admission is free, but booking online is recommended to secure your spot for the mapping show.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Model
Volta del Pallol
An incredibly detailed model of ancient Tarraco, offering a glimpse into Roman life.
Immersive Mapping Projection
Volta del Pallol
A captivating video projection that brings the model to life, explaining Tarraco's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Free Entry, Special Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Showtimes First
Mapping projections have specific times. Visit mappingtarraco.cat to confirm schedules before you go.
🎟️ Free Entry, Book Ahead
Admission is free, but booking online is recommended to secure your spot for the mapping show.
🗣️ English Shows Available
If you prefer an English explanation, check for weekend showtimes as they are often offered.
🏛️ Context for Roman Sites
Viewing the model before exploring Tarragona's Roman ruins provides excellent historical context.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Showtimes First
Mapping projections have specific times. Visit mappingtarraco.cat to confirm schedules before you go.
🎟️ Free Entry, Book Ahead
Admission is free, but booking online is recommended to secure your spot for the mapping show.
🗣️ English Shows Available
If you prefer an English explanation, check for weekend showtimes as they are often offered.
🏛️ Context for Roman Sites
Viewing the model before exploring Tarragona's Roman ruins provides excellent historical context.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Maqueta de Tarraco for its incredible detail and the engaging mapping projection that brings Roman Tarraco to life. Many highlight its free entry and the historical context it provides for exploring the city's Roman heritage. Some note that showtimes can be limited and booking is recommended.
"Interesting model of the city, which you can now only access at certain times when the mapping is on (15 minute video show) which describes each item of interest on the map. English show is currently only at weekends at 11am, check the website for up to date timings."
Claire Sturzaker
"Great model of Tarragona at roman times. We had an historian explaining us the city, how it was at roman times and how it evolved through time. It was really great, especially walking through the city afterwards."
Fred H.
"AMAZING. The details are very good, the entree is free so if you can pass before watching the roman citi Tarraco you will make a very good view of 2nd century a.C"
David Hernando
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Maqueta de Tarraco is located in the Volta del Pallol, which is easily accessible on foot within the historic center of Tarragona. If arriving by public transport, buses stop frequently near the city center.
There are several public parking garages in Tarragona's city center, such as the one at Plaça de la Font or Mercat Central, which are a short walk from the Volta del Pallol.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the Maqueta de Tarraco itself is free. However, viewing it as part of the mapping projection may require booking, especially during peak times.
While entry to the model is free, it's highly recommended to book your spot for the mapping projection online via mappingtarraco.cat, as shows can have limited capacity.
The Maqueta de Tarraco is accessible during specific mapping projection times. These vary, so it's crucial to check the official website (mappingtarraco.cat) for the most up-to-date schedule.
Yes, English language mapping shows are often scheduled for weekends, typically around 11 AM. Always verify the schedule on the official website.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The mapping projection is a short, immersive experience, typically around 15 minutes, designed to provide a historical overview of ancient Tarraco.
Yes, the detailed model and engaging projection are generally suitable and interesting for children, offering a visual introduction to Roman history.
The best experience is to watch the mapping projection first, which explains the model's details, and then explore the model itself.
Photography and videography are generally permitted, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and any specific rules posted at the venue.
🎫 📚 History & Context
The Maqueta de Tarraco meticulously recreates the city as it was during the Roman era, specifically around the 2nd century AD, when it was known as Tarraco.
Tarraco was a major Roman city, serving as the capital of Hispania Tarraconensis. It's notable for its Roman architecture and historical figures, with some suggesting Pontius Pilate was born there.
Remarkably, the creation of the Maqueta de Tarraco took over 8,000 hours of work, highlighting the dedication and detail involved in its construction.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The free entry is a bonus for budget-conscious families.Tip: Try to catch an English-language show if possible, and consider viewing the projection first to give kids a visual anchor before they explore the model. The relatively short duration of the projection also helps keep younger attention spans engaged.
🏛️ History Buffs & Roman Enthusiasts
Recommendation: View the mapping projection to get expert commentary and historical context, then spend time closely examining the model's intricate details. Consider visiting after exploring other Roman sites in Tarragona, like the Amphitheatre or Circus, to solidify your understanding.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Pro-Tip: Look for interesting angles and perspectives to highlight the scale and detail of the model. If possible, try to capture the projection's effects on the model for a truly unique shot. Be mindful of lighting conditions and any restrictions on flash photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Maqueta de Tarraco: A Window to the Past
The level of detail allows you to visualize the city's layout, key structures, and daily life, providing a crucial visual aid for understanding Tarragona's rich Roman heritage.To enhance the experience, the model is often accompanied by an immersive mapping projection.
+1 This projection uses light and sound to bring the model to life, highlighting significant buildings and explaining their historical context. It's a dynamic way to learn about Tarraco's importance as a Roman capital and its evolution through time. Many visitors find that seeing the model and projection before exploring Tarragona's actual Roman ruins significantly deepens their appreciation and understanding of the sites. The Volta del Pallol serves as the perfect venue for this exhibit, offering a historical setting that complements the ancient theme. While entry to the model is free, the mapping projection often requires booking, so checking the official website, mappingtarraco.cat, is essential for current showtimes and reservation details.
This combination of a detailed physical model and a modern projection technology makes the Maqueta de Tarraco a must-visit for anyone interested in Roman history and the origins of Tarragona. Experiencing the Mapping Projection
The projection typically lasts about 15 minutes
and is crucial for understanding the significance of each element within the model. It helps contextualize Tarraco's role as a major Roman center and capital of Hispania Tarraconensis. For those who don't speak Catalan, English language shows are often available on weekends, usually around 11 AM, making it accessible to a wider audience. To ensure you don't miss out, booking your slot for the mapping projection is strongly advised.
While the model is free to view, the projection may have limited capacity. Checking the official website, mappingtarraco.cat, for the latest showtimes and booking information is the best way to plan your visit and make the most of this captivating historical presentation. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit