Is the Cathedral in Barcelona Finished?

By Anna Duncan

The Cathedral of Barcelona, also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, is a popular attraction in the city of Barcelona. It is located in the Gothic Quarter and is one of the most impressive examples of Gothic architecture in Spain.

The cathedral has been under construction for over 150 years, but is it finished? Let’s find out.

History of the Cathedral

The construction of the cathedral began in the 13th century, but it wasn’t until the 19th century that major renovations began. In 1882, architect Josep Oriol Mestres began work on a new facade for the cathedral. This work continued until 1913 when Antoni Gaudí took over as lead architect.

Gaudí’s Influence

Gaudí’s involvement with the cathedral was short-lived due to his untimely death in 1926. However, he made significant contributions to its design during his tenure. He created a new choir area and added new stained glass windows to replace those destroyed during the Spanish Civil War.

The Unfinished Facade

One of the most striking features of the Cathedral is its unfinished facade. The original plan was to create three grand entrances, but only one was completed. The two unfinished entrances are now used as side entrances to the cathedral.

Ongoing Restoration Work

Despite its long history and many renovations, restoration work on the Cathedral continues to this day. In recent years, efforts have focused on repairing damage caused by pollution and weathering. There are also plans for further renovations and improvements.

Conclusion

So, is the Cathedral in Barcelona finished? The answer is no – it has been under construction for centuries and continues to undergo restoration work today.

However, this ongoing work has not detracted from its beauty or popularity as a tourist attraction. Its unique blend of Gothic and modernist architecture, combined with its rich history and ongoing renovations, make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Barcelona.