Santa Maria del Mar Basilica

Santa Maria del Mar basilica in Barcelona

Nicknamed “the Cathedral of the Sea”, Santa Maria del Mar basilica is a breathtaking Gothic church located in the Barri Gotic near Ciutadella park.

Construction started in the early 14th century, and took more than a hundred years to build. Unlike most other churches of its size, Santa Maria del Mar was built by citizens of all classes. Some of them contributed in money, others in material, and others as workforce.

Tip: Before visiting, try reading the book “The Cathedral of the Sea”, an epic novel dedicated to the basilica and to medieval Barcelona.

The interior is bathed by the warm Mediterranean light entering through colourful vitrages, highlighting Gothic adornments.

Classical music concerts are often held in the church.

It can be tricky to find it though, since the surrounding buildings are tall and streets are narrow.

Website: Basilica Santa Maria del Mar
Metro: L4 (Barceloneta, Jaume I)
Image source: Wikipedia
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