Barcelona Cathedral

Barcelona Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, is a famous example of fifteenth-century Catalan Gothic architecture. Although the Cathedral is not as famous as the Sagrada Familia, it is a magnificent Gothic-style temple beloved by locals and foreigners.

History

The site where the Cathedral currently sits has housed various Christian temples from the fourth century onwards. For instance, a Romanesque church was consecrated on this site in 1058. The construction of the Cathedral began in 1298 and was not completed until the twentieth century when the neo-Gothic façade was constructed.  

The Cathedral’s main highlights

• Saint Eulalia’s Crypt: Under the high alter is Saint Eulalia’s crypt, a young Christian woman that was tortured to death for defending her faith in 304.
• Cloister: The Gothic cloister was constructed between the fourteenth and fifteenth century. Currently, it houses 13 white geese, as Eulalia was thirteen years old when she was martyred.
• Choir: With a beautiful set of carved wooden chairs, the choir is one of the most special areas in the Cathedral.
• Rooftop: An elevator takes visitors to the rooftop where they can see its towers and the city from above, although the views are not very impressive.
• Chapel of the Holy Sacrament and of the Holy Christ of Lepanto: This chapel contains a cross, which the inhabitants of Barcelona have a special devotion to.

A magnificent temple

Although the Cathedral takes second place after the impressive Sagrada Família, this religious edifice shines with its own light fascinating both locals and travelers with its beautiful Gothic façade.