Cathedral of Barcelona

Things to do at Cathedral of Barcelona

Admire the Gothic Paintings

Inside the Cathedral of Barcelona, you'll find stunning Gothic paintings in the chapels and its museum. Artists like Jaume Huguet and Bartolomé Bermejo created masterpieces such as The Pieta, showing Mary holding Christ after the crucifixion. These works form intricate altarpieces that highlight Barcelona's history and religious art.

See the Historic Choir Stalls

In the heart of the Barcelona Cathedral, the choir stalls date back to the 14th and 15th centuries. Look closely at the backs of the seats to see the coat of arms of the Order of the Golden Fleece. These details reflect the cathedral's role in important historical events. The craftsmanship and carvings make this one of the most unique features of Barcelona Cathedral, Spain.

Look up to the Stained Glass Windows

The stained glass windows of the Cathedral of Barcelona are breathtaking examples of medieval art. They feature three panels: the center shows saints or biblical figures, while the sides display patterns and royal symbols. Sunlight through the colored glass fills the interior with soft light.

These windows are one of the best examples of Catalan Gothic design in Spain, contrasting with the simplicity often seen in a romanesque church.

View the Golden Custody

The Custody is one of the most precious objects inside the Cathedral of Barcelona. It's made entirely of gold and silver and decorated with jewels given as symbols of devotion. This masterpiece is displayed during the Corpus Christi celebration. Its size and detail make it one of the cathedral's main highlights.

Spot the Vault Keys

There are 215 vault keys inside the Cathedral of Barcelona, dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries. These keys were restored in 1970 and found to be polychrome, meaning they were originally painted in color. Each key is a small piece of barcelona's history and shows the skill of medieval craftsmen. Look for them while walking through the side chapels and upper galleries.

Visit the Crypt of Saint Eulalia

The cathedral's crypt holds the tomb of Saint Eulalia, the city's co-patron saint. She was only 13 when she was martyred for her faith during Roman times. The crypt is beautifully decorated and one of the most sacred spots in the Cathedral of Barcelona.

Climb to the Rooftops

Don't miss climbing to the rooftop of the Cathedral of Barcelona. From here, you'll see the bell tower, and great views of the Gothic Quarter and beyond. The walk up is worth it for photos and the chance to see the city from above, with the central tower rising as an iconic landmark of the skyline.

Popular Attractions near Cathedral of Barcelona

Ciutadella Park

Ciutadella Park is one of the most famous green spaces in Barcelona, about 15 minutes from the Cathedral of Barcelona. You can walk through the Parc de la Ciutadella, relax by the Cascada Monumental, or take a boat ride on the lake. It's a great escape after exploring the Gothic Cathedral.

Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter surrounds the Cathedral of Barcelona, making it an easy next stop. This historic area is full of narrow streets, medieval squares, and hidden courtyards. You can see Roman ruins, visit old churches, or enjoy small cafés and shops.

Moco Museum Barcelona

The Moco Museum Barcelona is about an 8-minute walk from the Catedral de Barcelona. It features modern and contemporary art, including works by Banksy and other famous artists. The museum contrasts the classic style of the Gothic cathedral with bright, modern exhibitions. If you love art and culture, this is a great addition to your Barcelona Cathedral visit.

Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona, a 15-minute drive from Barcelona Cathedral. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, this church building is an icon of the city and still under construction. You can explore its interior, climb the towers, and learn about its unique architecture.