A true masterpiece of Catalan Gothic architecture

Spanish Mediterranean Coast Tour ~ Barcelona (Region) The Collegiate Cathedral of Santa Maria is located at the top of Puigcardener. Popularly known as La Seu, it is considered one of the main buildings of Catalan Gothic. It is located on a high ground and has housed an Iberian village, a Roman fortress and a Roman temple. The construction of the present building began in 1322 by the same architect of Santa María del Mar, Berenguer de Montagut, and was completed at the end of the 15th century, with Gothic as the dominant style. Nevertheless, subsequent interventions mean that we also find Renaissance, Baroque and even Neo-Gothic elements, such as the facade of the Baptistery. Highlights of the Seu are the impressive rose window on the west facade, the clock and the crypt with a large marble chapel and eight Baroque medallions. Horizontally, two towers stand out: that of the Church of Santisimo and that of the Baptistery, both octagonal. Inside we can see the Altarpiece of the Holy Spirit by the master Pere Serra, one of the most valuable works of 14th century Catalan painting. Inside, I felt a sense of calm and grandeur that seemed to take me back to the past, when faith and art were inextricably linked. #AprilDestinations2025 #SpainTravel #Catalonia