Cathedral of Barcelona

Cathedral of Barcelona

The Cathedral of Barcelona is one of the most important and famous historical pieces of architecture in the city of Barcelona. It is an important sightseeing destination which is frequented by tourists from all over the world, looking to explore the various sights and sounds of this great historical city.

The most distant origins of the Cathedral of Barcelona correspond to a basilica with three naves which was destroyed by Al –Mansur (925). The remains of this basilica can be seen in the City History Museum. A new cathedral was commenced at around 1046, at the initiative of Bishop Guislabert. The Cathedral of Barcelona is believed to have occupied a part of the Gothic building, but some of its Romanesque elements remain.

The construction of the present day Basilica as it stands today began in 1928. It was during the bishopric of Bernat Pelegrí and the reign of King Jaume II, known as "the Just" that construction work began. Construction work of the present day façade of the Cathedral remained incomplete until the end of the last century. The work was finally completed under the supervision of architects Josep Oriol Mestres and August Font i Carreras who were inspired by a drawing from the 15th Century by Mestre Carlí.

Once you step inside the cathedral you are surely going to be struck by the vast spaces inside it. The spaces are imbued with a religious humility. The Cathedral is dedicated to Santa Eulàlia who was killed by the Romans for her Catholic faith. There are 29 lavishly decorated side chapels and a magnificent 14th century cloister. The latter is home to a number of geese who have been kept here for over 500 years. A museum which houses an assortment of 15th century religious paintings is also located within the Cathedral.

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