Discover the Barcelona Cathedral
This week, we sought out one of Barcelona’s most iconic buildings, the Cathedral of Santa Creu i Santa Eulalia, also known as the Holy Cross and Holy Eulalia Cathedral. Located in the Gothic Quarter, this is a tourist mecca, a place of worship for many and famed for its breathtaking architecture. Behind every important building is an even more revealing piece of history. So, this is the story of our cathedral, the Cathedral of Barcelona.
The Barcelona Cathedral (La Seu) is known as one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings and seat of the archbishops of Barcelona. It stands in the Pla de la Seu near the center of Barri Gotic, which is a direct border connected to the famous Rambla. The open space within the cathedral is often used for parties and events.
Indeed, Saturdays at 18.30 and Sundays at 12.00 Sardana is danced here, the traditional Catalan circle dance. It is worthwhile to have a look at the church at night, when the facade is atmospherically illuminated. Inside the building you will find a beautiful building and a magnificent cloister. If you’re in Barcelona on holiday and are staying close by do not miss the amazing opportunity to view this renowned historical cathedral.
The cloister of the cathedral
The cloister is devoted to Santa Eulàlia martyr, the patron saint of Barcelona, who was tortured to death during the late roman periods. Additionally, her body lies buried under the high alter. Also, be sure to look at the cloister gardens which are filled with flora, fountains, and even geese! The geese are significant animals as they warned against intruders and thieves.
From here you can reach the small museum which is open from 10:00 till 13:00 and from 17:00 till 19:00. You will find two very valuable items representing Santa Eulailia which you can choose to further explore.
The Cloister is a rectangular building with four arched ceiling galleries each separated by pillars. Additionally, the East end is a chevet of nine radiating chapels connected by an ambulatory. Inside, the altar is raised, allowing a clear view into the crypt.
History
Constructed during the 4th century, the Paleo-Christian basilica was constructed on the site during the 4th century. Its baptistery can be seen from the subterranean part of the nearby museum of the city. Also, allegedly this chapel is dedicated to Saint James. However, the second council of Barcelona in 599, stated that the cathedral is dedicated to the holy cross. Sadly, this church was severely damaged in 985 by Almanzor during his attack on Barcelona.
In 1046, a Roman Berenguer, his wife and Bishop Guislabert, began the process of creating the Romenesque cathedral which was later built in 1058. This was built over the crypt of the former church.
The church had been built from East to West, with the simple west facade completed in 1417. Moreover, the cloister was completed in 1448, making the total duration of construction 150 years.
Information
Address: Plaça de la Seu, s/n, 08002 Barcelona, Spain +34 933 15 15 54
Transport:
- Metro: L4, Jaume I.
- Bus Turístic: Barri Gòtic
Web: http://barcelona.de/en/barcelona-cathedral-la-seu.html
Prices: Free entrance.
- Visit the choir: Single: €2,80 per person / Groups: €2,50 per person
- Visit the rooftops: Single: €3,00 per person / Groups: €2,50 per person
Opening hours
- Monday 8:00 am – 12:30 pm, 5:15–7:30 pm
- Tuesday 8:00 am – 12:30 pm, 5:15–7:30 pm
- Wednesday 8:00 am – 12:30 pm, 5:15–7:30 pm
- Thursday 8:00 am – 12:30 pm, 5:15–7:30 pm
- Friday 8:00 am – 12:30 pm, 5:15–7:30 pm
- Saturday 8:00 am – 12:30 pm, 5:15–7:30 pm
- Sunday Closed
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