巴塞罗那大教堂

这 巴塞罗那大教堂 (Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia) is the main church of the city and the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona. It is located in the Gothic Quarter in the center of the old city and is built in the Gothic style with some neo-Gothic elements.

Interestingly, many tourists mistakenly think Sagrada Familia is Barcelona’s main cathedral. While it is an iconic and unusual structure designed by Antoni Gaudí, the main religious events take place at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross.

History:

• Built between the late 13th and early 15th centuries.
• Some elements, including the facade and main dome, were completed in the late 19th century.
• The cathedral was constructed on the site of an older Roman basilica destroyed by the Arabs. Nearby is the Chapel of St. Lucia, built 30 years before the cathedral construction began.

Architecture & Interior:

• The exterior is modest and does not immediately impress.
• Inside, the cathedral is magnificent, featuring Gothic arches, vaulted ceilings, and colorful stained glass windows.
• Highlights include the 14th-century altar, 25 prayer niches, and the crypt containing the remains of Saint Eulalia, the cathedral’s patroness.

Features:

• Height of the spire: 70 meters
• Visitors can climb to the rooftop for panoramic views of Barcelona and Montjuic (stairs are steep, so caution is advised for those afraid of heights).
• The cathedral has a courtyard, home to 13 white geese, symbolizing Saint Eulalia’s purity.

Location & Access:

• Situated in the dense old city, the small square in front requires a wide-angle lens for photos of the facade.
• Entrance to the cathedral is free (it is a working cathedral).

Special Combined Ticket (€16 in 2025) includes:

• Virtual reality experience
• Choir entrance
• Rooftop access
• Chapter Hall
• Virtual audio guide
• Diocesan Museum of Barcelona