The cathedral in Barcelona is known as the Barcelona Cathedral, or in Catalan, Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia. It is a magnificent example of Gothic architecture and is located in the heart of the city’s historic center.
History
The construction of the Barcelona Cathedral began in the 13th century, but it was not completed until the 15th century. The cathedral was built on the site of an earlier Romanesque church and was dedicated to Saint Eulalia, the co-patron saint of Barcelona.
Over the centuries, various modifications and additions have been made to the cathedral. The most significant changes occurred during the 19th and early 20th centuries when many parts of the building were renovated and restored.
Architecture
The Barcelona Cathedral features a stunning blend of Gothic and Catalan architectural styles. Its most impressive feature is its soaring spires that reach a height of 70 meters. The facade is adorned with intricate stone carvings depicting scenes from biblical stories and other religious symbols.
Inside, visitors are greeted by a grand nave with high vaulted ceilings supported by slender columns. The stained glass windows allow soft light to filter through, creating an ethereal atmosphere. The choir stalls are beautifully carved with intricate details, showcasing the craftsmanship of artisans from centuries ago.
The Cloister
A highlight of the Barcelona Cathedral is its beautiful cloister, which dates back to the 14th century. The cloister is a peaceful oasis filled with lush greenery, palm trees, and a serene fountain at its center. It provides a tranquil escape from the bustling streets outside.
Within the cloister, there resides a unique group of residents – a flock of geese. Legend has it that during a particularly cold winter, the geese alerted the sleeping guards with their honking, saving the cathedral from being ransacked. As a symbol of gratitude, geese have been kept in the cloister ever since.
Visiting the Barcelona Cathedral
The Barcelona Cathedral is open to visitors throughout the year. Entrance to the cathedral is free, although there may be a small fee for accessing certain areas, such as the cloister or the rooftop.
When visiting, it is important to dress appropriately and respectfully. As it is an active place of worship, visitors are expected to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
- Location: Pla de la Seu, Barcelona
- Opening Hours: Monday to Friday – 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:45 PM to 7:30 PM; Saturday – 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM and 5:15 PM to 8 PM; Sunday – 8 AM to 1 PM and 5:15 PM to 8 PM
No visit to Barcelona is complete without marveling at the beauty of the Barcelona Cathedral. Its rich history, awe-inspiring architecture, and peaceful ambiance make it a must-see attraction for visitors from around the world.