Barcelona Cathedral in Gothic quarter is one of the strongest landmarks in the area. The majority of the visitors walk by in an ignorant manner. You don’t need hours here. A targeted visit only lasts between 45-60 minutes.
We will demonstrate to you what it takes when time is tight. You will know what to visit, what to avoid and how to enjoy this masterpiece of the Middle Ages. Ideal to those traveling in Barcelona on a day basis.
What is Barcelona Cathedral?
The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia is located in the center of the Gothic Quarter. Locals call it “La Seu.” It is the main cathedral of Barcelona and the seat of Archbishop.
This is a medieval Gothic building which is centuries old. It is the resting place of the patron saint of Barcelona, Saint Eulalia. The structure boasts of magnificent Gothic architecture that has been extended.
It should not be confused with Sagrada Familia. That is the well-known basilica of Gaudi. The cathedral is a manifestation of traditional Gothic.
The most loved aspect of the cathedral is by history admirers. Newcomers cannot do without it. Gothic Quarter explorers make it an innate visit. When you are already in the area you can easily access it.
Map
History
The Romans initially established this place as the site of a temple. Early Christians later built a basilica. In 1298, workers started constructing the present Gothic cathedral. They did not finish it until 1913.
The cathedral is commemorated in the name of Saint Eulalia. In 304 AD, Romans martyred this 13 year old girl because she did not want to denounce Christianity. She had undergone 13 tortures in 13 years of her life. Her grave is in the crypt of the main altar.
Medieval constructors developed the Gothic core during the 13th-15th centuries. In the year 1448, they finished the magnificent cloister. The Golden Age of Barcelona shaped the core building.
The facade came much later. It was added in the late 19 th century by the Neo-Gothic architects. They relied on the original medieval designs.
Wars and time destroyed the cathedral. The restorations maintained the medieval nature. The Civil War had great devastation in the 1930s. Restoration continued through to the 20 th century.
Architectural Attractions
Gothic Facade
The doorway has the complex carvings of stones. Spectacle of the sharp arches and high towers. The spire at the center is 70 meters in height.
Interior Nave
Enter into high Gothic pillars. Vaulted ceilings are ribbed. The stained glass windows illuminate the space. The space is spacious and personal.
Cloister and the Geese
The cloister is a 14 th century neighborhood around an idyllic courtyard. There are thirteen white geese living here. They are signifiers of the age of Saint Eulalia when she was martyred. The geese move around freely among the tropical plants waddling. The location is peaceful in nature.
Crypt of Saint Eulalia
Descend below the main altar. The tombs of Saint Eulalia are in alabaster. Medieval artwork masons plowed out scenes of her martyrdom. Candlelight smokes glow in the crypt.
Choir Stalls
Artisans meticulously carve wooden seats around and in the center choir. The details reflect gothic craftsmanship. Craftsmen embellish the backs with coats of arms.
Side Chapels
The walls have twenty-nine chapels. A historically was sponsored by each family or guild. There are paintings and sculptures in them. You can skip these in case you have little time.
How much time do you need in Barcelona Cathedral?
Allow 30 -45 minutes to view the highlights. This includes the nave, cloister and the crypt. You will get the experience that is critical. Take it out to 60 minutes, in case you go up to the rooftop. The elevator is used to access views of the city. Allot time to cathedral museum, in case of interest.
Gothic Quarter Route in A Day
- Start at Placa de Catalunya. Stroll along Portal de l’Angel (10minutes). This brings one directly to the Gothic Quarter.
- First meet the cathedral at the beginning (9 AM opening). Spend 45 minutes inside. The first to the market is best.
- Take a walk and exit to Placa Sant Jaume. A sight of the buildings that are with the government. Carry on to Placa del Rei. The medieval square impresses.
- Take a coffee break in a cafe of Gothic Quarter. Photo-genic streets are found in Carrer del Bisbe.
Nearby Attractions
Placa del Rei
This is a square in the medieval square that proves the royal nature of Barcelona. In one side is the Palace of the Kings of Aragon. Archaeologists found the remains below. The square itself freezes in time.
The Barcelona Museum of History
The Placa del Rei is covered with underground Roman ruins. You pass on glass floors over avenues of the past. The museum narrates the 2,000 years life of Barcelona. Budget 45-60 minutes here.
Placa Sant Jaume
This is the political centre of Barcelona. Palau de la Generalitat is the opposite of the City Hall. The square is the place of demonstrations and celebrations. Quick photo stop.
Gothic Quarter Streets
The famous bridge is found in Carrer del Bisbe. Medieval narrow lanes turn all over. Concealed squares at every turn. It is the kind of atmosphere that takes you several centuries back.
El Born District
Cross Via Laietana into trendy El Born. The cathedral competes with the Santa Maria del mar church on architecture. Tapas bars line every street. Near the Picasso Museum is located.
How to Get There
Metro
Jaume I Station ( Yellow Line 4): The nearest one is a 5-minute walk along the Gothic Silbeit streets. Away to the Via Laietana, enter the former town.
Liceu Station (Green line 3): 8 minutes of walk up Las Ramblas. Wandering in Carretera de la Portaferrissa.
Barcelo-Urquinaona Station (Red line 1 or Yellow line 4): 10 minutes walk down the portal de l’Angel. This is a path that is easy and enjoyable.
Bus
There are routes 45, V15 and V17 which stop close to the cathedral. Buses move in every direction that you can go. The Placa de Catalunya is directly connected with Route 120.
Walking
By placa de Catalunya: 10 down portal de languer angel. You can never lose that way just follow the crowds.
Via Born: 10 minutes via streets of the atmosphere. Traversal de la via de la Lonja i el Gothic.
