Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar

In the lovely Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, one of the most touristic and beautiful places of the city, there is Santa María del Mar church. A building of Catalan Gothic style. It is important to keep this fact in mind, since it will define the characteristics of the works of this style.

But, however it is classified, this church of Barcelona "has something". Something that leaves you flabbergasted, impressed that in the heart of the city there can be such a beautiful historical wonder. Solid and robust, the building displays magnificence, from whichever angle you look at it. The appearance from the outside is of rectilinear lines and has a rose window people take pictures of.

In the surroundings of the lovely neighborhood of El Born in the center of Barcelona, there is one of the most beautiful churches in the city, the so-called Santa María del Mar church. This lovely building of Catalan Gothic style dates back to 998 (that's right, 998) and is the work of the architect Berenguer de Montagut, who built it at the time of the Catalan expansionist splendor.

The inside spaces are fantastic with windows of incredible beauty, a real visual experience. The imposing columns decorate the incredible empty spaces formed by the roof, a real masterwork. In the facades one notices definitely Gothic details and the light inside is quite special.

I became interested in this church after reading Ildefonso Falcones’ book about its construction, The Cathedral of the Sea. The book goes back to the 14th century and engulfs you with a story that you’ll find in the prosperous streets of a growing Barcelona, that has since become what it is today. Construction on the current temple began in 1329 by Berenguer de Montagut and took over half a century to complete.

It is the only complete great gothic Catalan church. The interior is spectacular and makes for a perfect place to meditate and reflect.

The church is impressive and coupled

It is a beautiful old church. Was great to learn the history and also to go to the top of the building and see the views of the city.

This wonderful Gothic church of the 14th century is the emblem of the neighborhood of El Born. The temple, that can be admired from all angles, has, looking from the outside, a solid, austere and barely decorated facade. However, the stylish and beautiful interior provokes astonishment and admiration. The three naves, supported and separated by a row of very high and slender columns conclude in a spectacular ogive vault. Santa María del Mar has a suggestive aspect provoking emotion. The temple is sometimes used for choir concerts. Listening to them in this environment makes your hair stand on end.

One of the most iconic monuments of the city.