This website presents our knowledge and research on this important aspect of the Royal Collection. As of April 2026 it will not be regularly updated and new research on this topic will sit within the main website.

Landscape, Nature and Architecture

Technological improvements enabled Prince Albert to collect photographs of places that were significant to him

CHARLES CLIFFORD (1819-62)

Muralla del Mar and Castell de Montjuïc

1860

Albumen print | 30.5 x 41.5 cm (image) | RCIN 2700164

Photograph of a view of the sea walls of Barcelona. The walls run diagonally through the photograph, skirting the port where small boats are moored. On the right of the wall is a promenade bordered by tall buildings facing the sea. In the background, on top of Montjuïc hill, stands the Castillo de Montjuïc with a single tower bordered by a defensive wall.  

Barcelona's sea walls were constructed during the first half of the 15th century as a safeguard against raids made against the city by Pirates. In 1834 Captain Ramon de Meer altered the design of the walls to include a wide walkway that functioned as a promenade. Montjuïc castle was originally constructed as a fortress during the 1640's and was altered to include battlements in 1694, thus transforming the fortress into a castle. In the late 18th century, the castle was again altered to give the castle the appearance that it has today. The castle now serves as a museum.
  • Creator(s)

    Charles Clifford (1819-62) (photographer)

  • 30.5 x 41.5 cm (image)

    41.0 x 54.0 cm (page dimensions)

  • Photographic Souvenir of Spain Vol II, 1861 Charles Clifford

  • Acquired by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert

  • Subject(s)
    • Places
      • Europe
        • Spain
          • Catalonia [Spain]
            • Barcelona [Spain]
              • Castill de Montjuic [Barcelona]
              • Muralla del Mar [Barcelona]
    • Science, Medicine and Technology
      • Engineering & Technology
        • Vessels (marine)
          • Boats
            • Fishing boats
    Object type(s)
      • visual works
        • photographs