In the center of Barri Gotic, Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, is a most outstanding medieval structure: La Seu. Officially known as Cathedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulalia.
Santa Eulalia has housed many religious structures in Barcelona. In 343 A.D. a Roman basilica dominated the site that was later destroyed by the Moors (Muslims) in 985 A.D. A Romanesque cathedral was completed here in 1058 A.D., which became part of La Seu three hundred years later. The cathedral was begun at some point in the rule of King Jaume II, although the construction was slow as a result of civil wars, and the many other problems that plagued Europe during this period. The building of the church continued toward the 19th century, which is why the outside the facade appears as it does, but the end result has surpassed any troubles that occurred because of its construction.
At over 300 feet long with a central spire soaring 230 ft into the heavens, it is one of the largest spiritual buildings in Europe. However, its size is not the primary source of the building's superb style. The octagonal clock towers, built between 1386 and 1393, are just one tribute to the architects' genius. There are numerous others.
The entrance arch is a set of concentric curves within one another, giving the structure a appearance that is remarkable even among Gothic churches. Though the design is used elsewhere, it is hardly ever done with such care and grace.
The interior is equally impressive. The visitor is struck on entering by the amazing woodcarvings on every wall. A side chapel holds a cross-removed from a galleon that participated in the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. The Christ form on the cross is leaning to the right. As stated by a Spanish tale, the movement of the Christ form was to avoid a cannonball during that battle. Other chapels within the massive cathedral tell similarly extraordinary and appealing stories.
The Cappella de Sant Benet back of the cathedral altar houses a crucifix from the 15th century. This work of art is not instantly visible to the informal spectator, but those who want to see the whole lot, their effort will be well rewarded.
The cathedral altar hides a crypt alleged to hold the body of St. Eulalia, a 13-year-old martyr who became the patron saint of Barcelona. The story has it that she was killed in a community square during the Roman period by being rolled about the square in a barrel stuck full of knives. For that reason it's unlikely the sarcophagus contains many remains. There are a few versions of this 13-year-olds' demise and one other has her being burned at the stake for her Christian beliefs. That was an uncommon practice during the Roman period. However, as with most legends, the story is often more important than the facts.
In her honor, the quad in the cloister next door is forever supplied with 13 white geese in a small pool. The setting includes a pastoral, garden with lush greenery and an even prettier fountain. It is one place in the lively Barri Gotic that is, as the saying goes, as silent as a church.
Be certain to visit the rooftop for a impressive sight. That of Barri Gotic and the neighboring Barcelona. To arrive, take the convenient transit to Jaume I or Liceu. - 16492
Santa Eulalia has housed many religious structures in Barcelona. In 343 A.D. a Roman basilica dominated the site that was later destroyed by the Moors (Muslims) in 985 A.D. A Romanesque cathedral was completed here in 1058 A.D., which became part of La Seu three hundred years later. The cathedral was begun at some point in the rule of King Jaume II, although the construction was slow as a result of civil wars, and the many other problems that plagued Europe during this period. The building of the church continued toward the 19th century, which is why the outside the facade appears as it does, but the end result has surpassed any troubles that occurred because of its construction.
At over 300 feet long with a central spire soaring 230 ft into the heavens, it is one of the largest spiritual buildings in Europe. However, its size is not the primary source of the building's superb style. The octagonal clock towers, built between 1386 and 1393, are just one tribute to the architects' genius. There are numerous others.
The entrance arch is a set of concentric curves within one another, giving the structure a appearance that is remarkable even among Gothic churches. Though the design is used elsewhere, it is hardly ever done with such care and grace.
The interior is equally impressive. The visitor is struck on entering by the amazing woodcarvings on every wall. A side chapel holds a cross-removed from a galleon that participated in the Battle of Lepanto in 1571. The Christ form on the cross is leaning to the right. As stated by a Spanish tale, the movement of the Christ form was to avoid a cannonball during that battle. Other chapels within the massive cathedral tell similarly extraordinary and appealing stories.
The Cappella de Sant Benet back of the cathedral altar houses a crucifix from the 15th century. This work of art is not instantly visible to the informal spectator, but those who want to see the whole lot, their effort will be well rewarded.
The cathedral altar hides a crypt alleged to hold the body of St. Eulalia, a 13-year-old martyr who became the patron saint of Barcelona. The story has it that she was killed in a community square during the Roman period by being rolled about the square in a barrel stuck full of knives. For that reason it's unlikely the sarcophagus contains many remains. There are a few versions of this 13-year-olds' demise and one other has her being burned at the stake for her Christian beliefs. That was an uncommon practice during the Roman period. However, as with most legends, the story is often more important than the facts.
In her honor, the quad in the cloister next door is forever supplied with 13 white geese in a small pool. The setting includes a pastoral, garden with lush greenery and an even prettier fountain. It is one place in the lively Barri Gotic that is, as the saying goes, as silent as a church.
Be certain to visit the rooftop for a impressive sight. That of Barri Gotic and the neighboring Barcelona. To arrive, take the convenient transit to Jaume I or Liceu. - 16492
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