The Cathedral of Barcelona, which is also called the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, was built in the Gothic style from 1298 to the 15th century. It is an active church that provides masses, confessions, and other sacraments. It also provides tours for 16 euros and up (as of the time of this review). I understand that some people think that a church should be free to enter, but I also understand that many tourists are not practicing Catholics and that the church needs to bring in revenue to pay its bills. My tour guide took my husband and me to the exterior of this church and explained its architecture and history. We did not pay for an interior tour. It is a lovely church to see. read more

Catedral de Barcelona - Exterior of church - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Barcelona, B

The Gothic Quarter is exactly my kind of architecture. This is where the Catedral de Barcelona sits, and it was so beautiful in person. I wish I had more time to actually learn about the cathedral and its history. Great place to take pictures obviously. Even though there were a lot of people around, we were still able to get shots without anyone in the background. Probably because we went there around evening, but it was still rather bright at night. Highly recommend! read more

The cathedral was beautiful and the rooftop views were simply stunning. Definitely worth a visit when visiting Barcelona. read more

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A beautiful ancient cathedral in the Gothic quarter. The square in front is lively. It's usually filled with buskers and various panhandling performers. read more

Catedral de Barcelona - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Barcelona, B

Had Happy Hour Prix Fixe at Terrace restaurant in Catedral de Barcelona Hotel. Really lovely space hidden away off main lobby. Excellent offering including choice of appetizers, main, dessert and bottle of wine. My starter pumpkin raviolis swimming in rich cheese sauce, fish on bed of vegetables, fresh fruit and a bottle of rioja. Everything was delicious, perfectly plated, and served with passion. Menu changes daily so you can come daily between 2 and 4 to see what the chef is offering without repeat. Just perfect! read more

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Barcelona Cathedral is the jewel of the city's Gothic Quarter. The Gothic cathedral was completed in 1448. The main facade, howerver, was rebuilt in the late 19th century. A highlight is the central Choir and its impressive carved wooden choir stalls. A number of decorated side chapel line the ambulatory. The adjoining Cloister is peaceful. It has a foutain topped by St. George and the Dragon and 13 white geese that represent St Eulalia. The gift shop is located in the Cloister. Admission to the Cathedral for a touist visit in 16 Euro. read more

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After all that eating, we waddled gracefully to the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, because digestion and Gothic architecture go hand-in-hand. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, this place is serious business. Stunning facades and ancient relic. But just outside is where the modern magic happens: street musicians, artists, handmade jewelry stands, paintings, you name it. It's a whole vibe. You can buy earrings, listen to a violinist play Despacito like it's a Bach sonata, and contemplate your next purchase. read more

Catedral de Barcelona - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Barcelona, B

Visited the Barcelona Cathedral and had a great experience. We got tickets on the spot--super easy--and they open around 9:30 a.m., which is perfect to beat the crowd. Tip: The view from the rooftop is absolutely worth it, so definitely make sure you go up there. A must-visit when in Barcelona! Ratings: Architecture & Experience: 5/5 Accessibility & Organisation: 4.5/5 Value for Money: 4.5/5 Overall: 4.5/5 - Stunning cathedral with an incredible rooftop view. read more

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Walking after dinner, we discovered this cathedral. It was closed so we weren't able to go inside. But the outside was beautiful and we will definitely visit again the next time we're in Barcelona. There are small cobblestone walkways all around, so we were able to see different parts of the outside of the church, including different types of stained windows. read more

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⁣⁣Barcelona Cathedral is in the heart of Gothic Quarter in Barcelona. It can't be missed as it is one huge and beautiful cathedral. The Barcelona Cathedral is also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulaila. (Saint Eulaila is the patron saint of Barcelona). This cathedral took roughly six centuries to build and is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. For around 9 euros one can go inside cathedral. The cathedral has over 140 saints and Marian advocations and sculptures and so there's a lot to see here. Aside from the inside of the cathedral; there is also a garden area where visitors can go. There is sight here with 13 white geese that resides in the cathedral's cloister. Also in the garden area is a small gift shop. Beautiful inside and out; the Barcelona Cathedral is a nice place to visit when in the Gothic Quarter. read more

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Barcelona Cathedral is a stunning cathedral; it was constructed between the 13th and 15th centuries, perhaps it may not get the attention it deserves being in the same city as the more famous Sagrada Familia, but Barcelona Cathedral is certainly worth a visit too while in the city. The building, architecture and detail are incredible with unique touches such as the 13 white geese kept in the cloister linking into the age when Eulalia was martyred. The fact it's often seen as the second historic religious building in the city - it's often quieter too so it's easier to take photos, admire the views, and even easier to get inside as there is rarely a long line. There seems to be a nicer atmosphere outside the Cathedral too, it seems pretty chill and relaxed compared to more of a touristy and busy pace outside Sagrada Familia. The Cathedral has free entry before 1 PM, after this time tickets cost €14, I don't really think it's worth the entrance fee, while the Cathedral is stunning, I don't think it is too different to other Cathedrals in cities across the world which have lower entrance fees (if charged at all). 4* read more

Catedral de Barcelona - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Barcelona, B

This is a no brainer visit when in Barcelona. Unlike some of the Gaudi architecture, no crazy advance reservation is needed. I did make a reservation, but ended up asking the ticket office if I can enter a day early on the spot because I was in the area as it is. This was a Monday and a lot of the museums are closed on that day of the week, but the Cathedral was open. There's 3 main layers to the cathedral. The first is the interior - the altar, the church itself. It's just stunning. The architecture is beautiful. I'm sure people spent time sitting here basking in the glory and even waiting for a sermon or confession. The second part is the courtyard. If you're lucky like me, you'll see several geese in the middle. Enjoy that because you don't get that often. The third and most important part is the access to the terrace. The steps are not for the faint of heart, but it's worth the view as well as the cross. Overall, this was a fun time and I highly recommend swinging by here to visit. read more

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What's a visit to Barcelona without seeing the quintessential cathedral?! This has got to be some of the most jaw dropping architecture that I've ever seen! Calling it beautiful is seriously an understatement. Walking in, I felt like I was being transported back in time. You will be taken aback by all of the stunning Gothic architecture. From the elaborate altar to the intricate ceiling details; every inch of this cathedral is beautiful and it also tells a story. I feel like even if you aren't religious, this is a place that will evoke some kind of emotion out of you. Just being in the presence of this amount of beauty is both joyous and overwhelming all at the same time (at least it was for me). Take a break, sit down, and soak it all in. While I was blown away by the interior space, the rooftop really warmed my spirit. Something about walking on top of the cathedral ignited a fiery passion in me. I felt so free. It was so amazingly beautiful to be up there. And if you've ever been on any kind of Barcelona rooftop, then you probably know what I'm talking about. It's such an amazing feeling and the views don't hurt either (wink wink). Be sure not to miss the courtyard with the lovely duck pond. It's so peaceful and serene. Watching the ducks swimming peacefully in the pond is so relaxing. Tickets are €9 to enter and it includes access to both the rooftop and the courtyard. They can be purchased in advance or at the door. I purchased my ticket when I arrived and there was no wait. You should also note that it cost €1 to use the restroom. Also, be modest when entering the Cathedral and cover your knees and shoulders out of respect (one of the rules that are expected but not enforced). There's a huge Samsung Galaxy ad that's covering the top half of the outside of the cathedral. Many people are upset about it and I can see why. It makes it look super tacky, but luckily the interior space isn't affected by this. All in all, it's worth the €9 to check out. read more

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Impressive! Located in the gothic quarter, it sure was gothic! It was fun to walk around the living quarters of the priests too.

A sacred site, not a ticketed attraction Charging €9 just to enter the Barcelona Cathedral is unacceptable. This is not a commercial attraction but a sacred cultural site that should remain freely accessible to everyone. Citizens already pay high taxes -- this should be enough to cover maintenance. It's sad to see such an important monument turned into a pay-per-view experience, with advertising banners like Samsung's even placed on the façade during renovations. Disrespectful and disappointing. read more

This is such a big, beautiful, and extremely old cathedral right in the middle of Barcelona. Even though there's a fee to gain entry, it's well-worth the price. Be sure to go up to the roof top and walk all the areas up there, that's worth the wait in line! The architecture of the entire building is stunning! The roof offers great views of the city's skyline, rooftops, and far off hills. Highly recommend stopping in and spending an hour or more here. read more

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This is my second favorite church in Barcelona. I love the plaza and all the activity and life of the neighborhood. What a beautiful exterior and the art inside was just amazing. A little annoying that they have mass on a side chapel but that's the way it works. We're blessed to go to confession there as well. I really liked the way the light up the entire space giving it this amazing glow inside. Never been to a Cathedral with living pets so that was unique and they had VR stations which was good to attract younger Catholics. Truly breathtaking and grand. read more

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Massive cathedral, in the heart of the gothic quarter. Not free mind you, and even when you go inside they will charge you to use the restroom. Yes, charge you. Still, it's a massive piece of history and you will be in awe as you walk through this place. It's huge. If you're in the goth quarter, check it out. read more

Catedral de Barcelona - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Barcelona, B

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Negative: We waited 1 hr. to enter, at the last minute for mass! We couldn't take photos! After the mass, everyone else were videotaping or taking photographs, so we did! OK, I break rules! For me, I paid money to see something, and here I am, attending mass in a GOTHIC cathedral, HOW can I NOT take photos? This is the ONLY cathedral, where a LARGE advertisement, hung ruining the face of the top of a CATHOLIC CATHEDRAL, that's seen by people all over the world! Guess, who is paying for the upgrade. . . .That's OK, then. They need to upgrade churches, where people gather to pray. This is still worth the wait. read more

Catedral de Barcelona - We have a lot of time for a photo-op, here! - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Barcelona, B

It's impossible to wander the spider-web streets of Barcelona's old town without being trapped by the presence of the cathedral. It's monumental but a bit dark from the outside. The inside is full of light and stained glass, which makes the inside of the cathedral, very colorful. It might not have the hype of La Sagrada Família, but it holds court: a giant Gothic temple that looms large against the cute shops from Old Town. Its site originally housed a Roman temple, some 2,000 years ago, when Barcelona was still called Bàrcino. Today, the cathedral's official name, Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, honors Eulalia, a local girl who refused to accept Roman emperor Diocletian's demand to recant her Christian faith. His retaliation was 13 forms of torture, followed by decapitation, during which a dove is said to have flown from her neck. It's why, inside the cathedral's cloisters, you'll find a pond with 13 white geese. Not statues, but living, squawking geese. I loved looking at them and seeing them play around the water and watch the dozens of tourists that gather every minute to take pictures of them....like me...LOL... The story really moved me, as I thought about people throughout history that have had such a conviction and faith for a strong belief and they are willing to die for that conviction. Amazing. read more

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Roman Catholic Cathedral from 1436 Houses a dining hall for the poor, numerous side chapels, shop, 13 geese, bell tower, courtyard & tombs. Sunday they are closed until 3 for mass @ tickets are 15 euros each. read more

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This cathedral is beautiful. It definitely creeps up on you but it's surrounded by many beautiful buildings. Many school groups visit the landmark and there are also many tourists. I wasn't able to go inside but would be interested to see what's there if it's open to the public. Overall rating: 10/10 read more

Catedral de Barcelona - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Barcelona, B

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Underestimated the Cathedral de Barcelona's beauty and almost didnt visit it because its popularity gets dwarfed from the popular Sagrada Familia. This is makes my top 4 must visit list in Barcelona. Came at 5:30pm on a Monday. No line, just walk up to the front and pay 7€. Once entered, you can get an audio guide on a spiffy smart phone device for 4€. Is it worth it? If you have lots of time and like details of everything sure, but its 1 hour worth of audio clips. You can also select the 1.5 hour audio tour but that's way too long in my opinion. With the organ upstairs playing loudly, it makes it hard to listen to the audio guide. So if you're a casual cathedral visitor, I would probably skip the audio guide. Also, they held on to my ID until you return the devices, which was annoying and I'll tell you why at the end. With your ticket, go take the lift to the rooftop. From the roof you can see all of Barcelona, even the Sagrada Familia in the distance. Upon exiting, you'll find a nice courtyard with other things to see. There's also a side room which you can see artifacts (they scan your ticket again, so don't toss your ticket). If you didnt get the audio guide, then know that the 13 geese outside represent the witnesses of... something. See, I think I have ADD because I zone out with audio guides. The audio guide also tells you that the tablets with pictures on the ground are tombs. Back then not a lot of people could read, so they have pictures to depict the career/trade the dead person had. You'll see shoe pictures, scissors (for being a tailor), a poison sign with a skull (maybe they were an alchemist? Didn't pay attention to the guide). Now when you exit, you'll see a stand to dispose of your audio guide. But wait, what about my ID? Yup, the worker told us we had to go all the way to the front, exchange the Audio guides to get back my ID, but you also cant exit from the front. So, you have to walk all the way back to the exit in the courtyard. What a weird system. Fyi, .50€ to use the bathroom. It's weird that they would charge after you paid to enter a cathedral. Oh well. A visit to Cathedral de Barcelona, recommended! read more

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Located in the Gothic Quarter, it's a beautiful cathedral that probably gets overlooked compared to the more famous Sagrada Familia. The outside facade might put you off since there's a huge Samsung ad covering the top, but the inside is beautiful and worth the 9 euros. The price also includes access to the rooftop, where you'll get a pretty and quiet view of the surrounding area. read more

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Towering above the center of the Barri Gòtic district in Barcelona's principal cathedral. The Gothic cathedral's construction began in the late 13th century, though it wasn't completed until the mid-15th century. There are 140 statues of saints that call the cathedral home. There was some concert going on at the front so the front view was blocked. Not saying it's must but it's worth your time. You won't be disappointed. If you have enough time, highly suggest taking advantage of the opportunity to go to the top of the cathedral on the roof. There, you can get an eyeful of the spire up close as well as some prime city views. Whatever you choose to do, make sure to wear the proper attire. According to recent travelers, the dress code here is strict and knees and shoulders must be covered. read more

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What's not to love!!!!! Barcelona!! Cathedral!! Just stunning!!!! And without the crazy sgrada familia wait and lines. This is definitely a must visit. Just like everything in Gothic quarter, this cathderal has so much history. You can see Catalan Gothic style art: stunning architecture, holy cross and the church that was built 600 plus years before Sagrada Familia. Gotta love the historic art. The cathedral itself is stunning but the best views are inside and up above. 7 euros gets you inside and get a lift up to the roof top. You can see all of Barcelona with audio tour. You can marvel inside the cathedral and the arts that was 1298. It is also attached to Chapel of St Lucia dated 1257. There is so much history inside this beautiful cathedral. The chapel also has remains of Bishop Arnau of Gurb -1248! The roman catholic religious history is all around this beautiful cathedral. Humbling to be able to walk around in it in Pandemic! The walk in Bari Gothic/Gothic quarter is amazing and you can't miss this cathedral if you are in the area. It's a must! read more

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The cathedral was constructed from the thirteenth to fifteenth centuries, this is another must see in Barcelona. Admission could be free depending on the time you visit or 7€ if you visit during peak tourist time. Admission fee includes elevator ride to the roof top. If you come during free admission time, ride to the rooftop is 3€. Roof design is so notable, I recommend going up there. You also get to see the Sagrada Familia from up there too. Learn history just enough prior to visit to fully appreciate what Saint Eulalia went through. Then you will know why 13 geese at courtyard. read more

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I struggled a little with the rating, this is definitely a must see for anyone staying at least 3 days in Barcelona. The reason why it's only okay in spite of its majestic awesome beauty and historic significance is that they have this huge advertisement on it, completely marring the gravitas, decorum, and veneration. It's the most American thing I've seen in Barcelona. But anyway, maybe it will be gone if the the renovation is finished by the time you're visiting. If that's the case, message me so I can change this to a five star review. This 500 year old cathedral is the seat of the Barcelona Archbishop. The guard geese in back are entertaining as are the various dance and music performances in the square in front. St. Eulalia, a 13 year old martyr who refused to recant her beliefs even under torture from the college Chancellor Diocletian and Provost Dacian which just goes to show how important tenure and teachers unions are. read more

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Wow wow wow! I wasn't sure I even needed to see this Cathedral I thought it was all about Sagrada Familia, that shows what an ignorant uninformed fool I can be sometimes. When my hotel mentioned this as one of the highlights when we were going over the map and my self led walking tour I was like ok, sure. I'd left the market then told myself I'd navigate here to check it out. I first approached the gothic neighborhood and stumbled upon an area that I'd seen in several pictures and was quite excited. My attention was then loss to a nearby Espadrilles store and shoe shopping took over, when I regained the initial reason I'd made my way over here. I came around the back side and approached the Cathedral to my absolute surprise I was in complete awww. I had no idea how stunning this would be. I then asked myself do I even need to visit Sagrada Familia after this (of course I did, I'd paid for an English tour later this day ;) I toured the Cathedral and it was definitely another highlight of my trip. I also felt blessed to find a Christmas market out front. One of my dreams has always been to experience a Christmas market, I went twice. Once during the day and then back that evening since my hotel mentioned it was a nice experience in the evening. Beautiful, just beautiful. read more

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You can seriously imagine medieval folks attending church here. You feel like you have stepped out of present time. It is almost magical. We were there at sunset and after some rain. The sky was bright pink and everything twinkled. It is an amazing place. And do not miss the courtyard. They have geese. Also look around the area near the church. There are plenty remains of the old Roman walls that once surrounded the old Roman city. If you get a chance, make this the highlight of a Gothic District walking tour. There's plenty of those listed online. It was amazing to see, especially if you are also touring Sagrada Familia as they juxtapose nicely. read more

Catedral de Barcelona - Christmas market and Cathedral at sunset. - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Barcelona, B

The beautiful cathedral in Barcelona with stunning architecture. Not as big as Família, but still a sight to see. The many steps are a popular place to hang out at. You can attend the mass on Sundays, just don't tell them you're just there for sightseeing, and you'll get it without a problem. read more

Catedral de Barcelona - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Barcelona, B

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Disappointing at first sight...huge Samsung ad hung over the prettiest part of the church as you entered. Lots of people taking pictures of it, making comments about the ad. Make sure you download the audio guide ahead of time...even though we did, half of our earbuds wouldn't transmit the info. Not sure of the problem. There is no AC in the church or air movement so dress accordingly. Large, beautiful old church inside. Very pretty. The elevator to the roof is kinda hidden so look our for it on the left of the sanctuary. View from roof is pretty. read more

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and St. Eulalia is Barcelona's premier church made in the Catalan Gothic style. Per tradition it houses the seat of the bishop in Barcelona and predates Sagrada Família by over 600 years. There can only be one cathedral in Barcelona and it certainly isn't the Sagrada Família! LOGISTICS: - The mornings are dedicated for worship and prayer. Cultural visits are in the afternoon (~12:30 to 7:45pm, reduced hours on weekends). - €7 for the cultural visits which includes access to the choir in the middle of the church, the roof and the museum. - As always with churches, modest dress required. - There can be a small line in front of the church due to security screening. St. Eulalia is Barcelona's co-patron saint along with St. George, the patron saint of Catalonia. Legend has it that when she refused to recant her faith she was subjected to 13 various tortures (equivalent to her age). Several parts of the church are attributed to honoring the girl: depiction of some of her tortures are located at the entrance to the choir from the back of the church, the crypt located behind the high altar and the 13 geese kept inside the cloister. Much of the church's charm lies in its interior which exemplifies the Catalan Gothic style: more simplistic than French Gothic with no flying buttresses, more austere interior and small transept. Having 28 chapels on the side is also a little unusual as it provided support for the church both physically (functioned as buttresses) and financially (guilds or affluent families can rent space in the church's chapels). The facade provides a stark contrast to the interior; the Neo-Gothic facade was added on in the late 18th century. The rooftop provides a spectacular panoramic view of Barcelona though if you visit Santa Maria del Mar the viewpoints are somewhat similar. Every Sundays at around 11 groups of people dance the sardana in front of the cathedral. Catalan in origin it soon became one of the symbols of Catalan identity. I was lucky enough to arrive in Barcelona just in time to catch this. My only regret was that I didn't join a group. A donation of €1 is appreciated and the people taking donations give you a small pamphlet about the sardana's role in Barcelona. Enjoy Barcelona Cathedral while it's still a cathedral as I'm not too sure of it's status when Sagrada Família will finally be completed. It's a beautiful chapel but evokes a different feeling compared to anything Gaudí has ever done. Still this chapel is an essential visit if you want to get a complete picture of Barcelona's history, especially the time period after Barcino but before modernisme. read more

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Perhaps overshadowed by Sagrada Familia, this cathedral is beautiful in its own right. We passed by the cathedral several times on foot trips to other destinations, making a mental note to return. So glad we did. The line up out front looked daunting, but it moved at a good pace and we were inside in less than 20 minutes. Cost was 7€ per person. The architecture is stunning and the courtyard is beautiful. Would highly recommend checking it out. read more

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While wondering around the Gothic Quarter, i was wondering what what was so special about it, i just kept walking narrow streets and nothing special or inspiring. Then one turn and BAM, this huge cathedral pops out of nowhere! Finally something in Barcelona thats not made by Gaudi. There is usually a small entrance fee but since there was a service going on it was free. The door was closed and i was content just taking pics from outside, but then i saw a guy just walk in. So i asked the security guy if i could go in and he gave me the nod. Off to the right there was a service going on but the whole place was free to browse. I approached the security guard and lifted my camera asking if i could take pictures, and he gave me the nod. Many places with old paintings and carvings won't let you so i was glad that i could take pics. I must have spent at least half an hour looking at all the little details. It was just nice to see something more classic, since the rest of Barcelona's attractions are inspired by the more modern architecture of Gaudi. --- Toward the back, theres some stairs that lead down to a crypt, its a bit dark but you can put a few coins in to illuminate it to see it better or to take some pics. read more

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Lovely cathedral inside and out with a stunning ceiling, gates with memorials to the immaculate conception and other saints and a prayer room, simply stunning! If you go between 8-12 for mass it's free entrance, otherwise you have to pay or you can hang around outside and listen to the sermon being played out in English. I suggest joining the congregation for mass, such a beautiful experience. Shame I didn't get to see the 13 geese during this time but an excuse to visit again! read more

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I happen to love checking out churches. This one was completed between the 13th through 15th centuries. Lots of interesting behind the architecture, some of which will be included in the pamphlet if you can go during ticketing hours. I believe it's mon-fri 8-1 n just 7ish€ / person If you can make it during that time, the church is closed off to non ticket holders and you'll have access to the rooftop which had beautiful views of the city. Elevator entrance to the rooftop is on the left side about mid-way down if you walk straight ahead. There's a guard sitting in front that will stamp ur ticket so keep it handy. Also available is a small collection of art and jewels accessible from the interior courtyard. The door was slightly ajar when we walked by but it's def hard to notice when the security guard closes it. Almost seems like a secret room. No pics in that room and ticket will be stamped upon entry as well so make sure to hold on to that thing until you've seen both. Coooool stuff. Def go cause it's so central to the gothic quarter, las rambles, la boqueria and lots of other touristy fun things. read more

Catedral de Barcelona - Try to go during ticketing times n check out the roof top views (ele up) as well as the crypt and art n artifacts room (enter in courtyard) - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Barcelona, B

This is a beautiful Gothic cathedral. The architecture is stunning, the back side of the church incorporates the old Roman wall into its structure. The interior is also beautiful, even though it does not have as many works of art as the cathedrals of other cities such as Sevilla, Segovia, or Toledo. Regardless, the church stands here beautifully. read more

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I knew I wanted to see this beautiful church during our stay in Barcelona. You can get in for free during "off peak hours" (so if I remember correctly before 12PM and after 5PM) otherwise I believe it's a suggested donation. We ended up in the Gothic Quarter on a Saturday and during the peak hours. The line was long to get in, so we didn't step inside, but I definitely admired the amazing exterior of the church. Just from seeing the outside of the cathedral, I can tell you that this is the church beauty in Barcelona and not La Sagrada Familia. Next time we come back, I'll definitely make my way inside. read more

Catedral de Barcelona - Landmarks & Historical Buildings Near Me - Barcelona, B

The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia (Catedral de la Santa Creu) is also known as Barcelona Cathedral. It's an impressive Gothic Complex and is the seat of the Archbishop of Barcelona. The Cathedral was constructed throughout the 13th to 15th centuries, while the cloister (which encloses the Well of the Geese (Font de les Oques)), was completed about 1450. The roof is notable for its gargoyles, featuring a wide range of animals, both domestic and mythical. This Cathedral was also constructed over the Crypt of a former Visigoth Chapel dedicated to Saint James. As such, the High Altar is raised, allowing a clear view of the Crypt. My first observation is that as far as big churches in Barcelona go, I enjoyed my visit to Santa Maria del Mar and Sagrada Familia much more. My key regret regarding my visit was not taking advantage of a "Wine and Food" festival that was in full swing outside the Cathedral during the weekend that we were here. My key disappointment with this place is that it was overrun with Tourists and there was a lot of construction going on, all while the good folks here were trying to run a Church. However, they did their best as one Chapel was reserved for the Congregation and there was another service in progress below front when we arrived. Please also be aware that there are a few places that you can't take pictures, and they mean business. That's fine and as it also applies to proper dress and being quiet, proper respect is just good manners. Overall, it was a nice visit. I wandered around a lot and particularly enjoyed the Main Altar Area, the Cloister (including a wispy garden) area, the 13 Geese (explained by the assertion that Saint Eulalia was 13 when she was martyred), the "Christ of Lepanto" and other side Chapels, the exterior views, and the overall Holiness of this space. One Bonus is the opportunity to wander deep within the Barri Gòtic, Barcelona's Gothic Quarter. The area around the Cathedral is a tangled yet inviting grab bag of undiscovered courtyards, grand squares, schoolyards, Art Nouveau storefronts, musty junk shops, classy antique shops, street musicians strumming Catalan folk songs, and balconies with domestic jungles behind wrought-iron bars. That was quite a cultural scavenger hunt! read more

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