Barcelona Cathedral Guide

The High Altar of the Barcelona Cathedral, which is made of white marble and measures about three meters in length, was established in 1337 by Bishop Ferrer Abella. It is currently supported by two sixth-century capitals that were previously housed in the pre-Christian Cathedral.

One of the most breathtaking vistas and remarkable sculptures in the Barcelona Cathedral is the choir or choir seats, which were constructed between the 14th and 15th centuries. These seats still retain their attractiveness and display the coats of arms of the knights of the Order of the Golden Fleece that were painted on the backs of every choir seat.

The cloister is close to the Barcelona Cathedral and can readily be reached from the cathedral floor. It was built much later than the cathedral, in the 14th century, and is known for its beauty. It is adored for its lovely courtyard with towering palm trees, which provides a welcome change of scenery from the Gothic Quarter. Additionally, you could see the 13 geese bathing here at the Well of the Geese.

The Door of Saint Ivo, which is thought to be the Barcelona Cathedral's oldest door, has stood as the structure's main entrance for more than 500 years. The descending pointed archivolts, which are situated beneath one of the bell towers and are supported by nerves with floral capitals, are the structure's most distinctive elements. It was built from stone and marble. Two inscriptions on the back of the door mark the beginning of construction on the Gothic Cathedral, and two reliefs depict the conflict between man and animal.

The Saint Eulalia Crypt is located beneath the High Altar. It preserves Saint Eulalia's ancient grave from the fourth century, who was a virgin and martyr. The Saint's remains are also preserved in an outstanding polychromed Gothic tomb made of alabaster that is located within the crypt. The architect Jaume Fabré built The Crypt at the start of the 14th century.

In the Barcelona Cathedral's Sacristy, the faithful are attended to and memorial services are recorded. It was built during the additions in 1502 when the priests' changing room was added, as well as in 1408 when the treasure chamber was built, and it contains three chambers.

Saint Raymond of Penyafort's Sepulcher can be found in his chapel beneath the altar. It has the saint's prone figure on display as well as the 14th-century tomb from the Saint Catherine convent. The Gothic tomb of Saint Raymond of Penyafort is depicted at the top of the altar along with episodes from his life.

In addition to the chapel for Saint Lucia, the Gothic Barcelona Cathedral also features a modest museum that is housed beneath the gallery of the cloister. There aren't many artifacts on show at the museum. However, the few paintings that are still in existence are thought to be significantly essential, similar to the works of the Spanish gothic painter Bartolomé Bermejo.

Suggested Read: Barcelona Museum

Originally, the Virgin Saints were honored in the chapel for the episcopal residence known as the Chapel of Saint Lucia. It has been only Saint Lucia, the patron of sight, since 1296. The rectangular structure has two access doors: one leads to the cloister and the other leads to the outside.

Between 1887 and 1890, architect José Oriol Mestres created the front of the Barcelona Cathedral, which was constructed in the neo-Gothic style. The main door with a huge Gothic arch and archivolts in the center is the piece that stands out the most. Eight stained glass windows and two side towers with tall pinnacles are also displayed on the exterior.

Take the elevator from the Barcelona Cathedral to the rooftops to experience breathtaking views of the city of Barcelona. It is reachable via the chapel of the Innocent Saints. If you're in a hurry, this is a smart choice because the elevator will just cost a modest sum of money.

The Chapel of Lepanto was constructed as a tiny chapterhouse or gathering place. It is notable for housing an unusual crucifix known as the Holy Christ of Lepanto. It's a wooden carving of Jesus being nailed to a cross. The inhabitants of Barcelona highly regard this symbol of worship.