Barcelona Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Barcelona, Spain. While it is an impressive structure, it has remained unfinished for centuries.
Many people wonder why such a prominent building has remained incomplete for so long. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind Barcelona Cathedral’s unfinished state.
The History of Barcelona Cathedral
The construction of Barcelona Cathedral began in 1298 on the site of a former Romanesque cathedral. The new cathedral was designed in Gothic style by architects who drew inspiration from French cathedrals such as Notre-Dame de Paris.
The project was initially led by architect Arnau Bargués until his death in 1331. The construction then continued under different architects for years.
The Reasons Behind its Unfinished State
There are several reasons why Barcelona Cathedral remains unfinished to this day:
1) Lack of Funding
One of the main reasons why Barcelona Cathedral remains incomplete is due to a lack of funding. The construction relied largely on donations from wealthy families and royalty, which were not always consistent or sufficient to complete the ambitious project.
2) Wars and Conflicts
The cathedral’s construction was also halted multiple times due to wars and conflicts that plagued Spain throughout history. These events diverted resources and efforts away from completing the cathedral.
3) Natural Disasters
Natural disasters such as earthquakes and storms have also impacted the progress of construction over time. These events caused damage to parts of the structure, leading to further delays in completion.
The Unfinished Facade
One notable feature that stands out in the incomplete structure is its facade, which only has one completed tower while the other remains unfinished. This asymmetrical design is not uncommon in Gothic architecture, but it is particularly striking in Barcelona Cathedral.
The Completed Tower
The completed tower of the facade was constructed in the 15th century and stands at 70 meters tall. It features four levels with intricate details and sculptures that depict biblical scenes and saints.
The Unfinished Tower
The unfinished tower of the facade, on the other hand, stands at only 50 meters tall. It was intended to match the completed tower but was never finished due to various factors such as lack of funding, wars, and natural disasters.
The Future of Barcelona Cathedral
Despite its unfinished state, Barcelona Cathedral remains a significant cultural and historical landmark in Spain. While there have been attempts to complete the project over time, including recent restoration efforts, it is unlikely that the cathedral will ever be fully finished as originally intended.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Barcelona Cathedral’s unfinished state is due to various factors such as lack of funding, wars and conflicts, and natural disasters. While it may never be completed as originally intended, it remains an impressive example of Gothic architecture and a testament to the resilience of human creativity and perseverance throughout history.