Every aficionado and regular visitor of Spain has his own preferences and likings. Many fanatically choose its capital, Madrid for various reasons where others have a strong affinity towards its second largest city, Barcelona. Be it because of its history, its colorful streets, the food, the music, its people, its museums, its parties and its beach, there are many reasons to visit and revisit Barcelona. It is one the most vibrant cities and certainly it will not disappoint any tourist. One of the lesser known reasons to visit it is its many churches. Here follows a list of the best churches of Catalonia’s capital.
- La Sagrada Familia
One of the main and central touristic attractions, it dominates over the city. One of the world’s most famous churches, it has been designed by Antoni Gaudi and has been recognized by Unesco as a World Heritage Site. Although it belongs to the Catholic creed, for many people it acts as a symbol of unity, spirituality, peace and harmony regardless of someone’s religion and beliefs. 2017 marked the 135th anniversary of laying the cornerstone of the temple and currently only 70% of the Basilica is finished with designs to finish construction in the first third of the 21st century.
- The Barcelona Cathedral
Dedicated to Saint Eulalia, it constitutes the jewel of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter. Because its construction began in the 13th century and was concluded in the 15th, the visitor can observe characteristics from many different architectural periods. Do not forget to climb to the rooftop to enjoy the majestic view and also to photograph its gargoyles that represent a big variety of animals.
- The Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar
An imposing church located in the Born district of Barcelona. It has been built from 1329 until 1383 in the Catalan Gothic style. Its architecture and its history make that church one of the most popular tourist destinations in Barcelona. Its ceiling is very high and supported by pillars. Its walls are darkened as a result of a fire that anarchists and communists started in 1936.
- The Church of Sant Francesc de Sales
This church constitutes a prime example of the neogothic architecture. It has been built between 1878 and 1885 by renowned architect Joan Martorell y Montells that was Gaudi’s teacher. Its highlights include the following: the belfry that rarely is situated on the façade and entrance to the church is done through its base along with the exquisite stained-glass windows and murals.
- Church of the Hospital of the Holy Cross and Saint Paul
Only ten minutes’ walk from the Sagrada Familia lies the Hospital of the Holy Cross and Saint Paul. It is a modernist building of a great architectural value that has been built from 1902 until 1930. The entire complex along with the church has been designed by Domenech I Muntaner following modernist approaches. Do not forget to photograph the marble altars with the lion and the ox, representing equally the Evangelists Mark and Luke.
