Gothic quarter Barcelona

Tour of the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona city centre.

Practical information on the Gothic Quarter

Address: The Barrio Gótico in Spanish or Barri Gòtic in Catalan is located in the heart of Barcelona. It is one of the four districts of the "Ciutat Vella", the old town.  "El Gòtic" as the Catalans simply say is bounded by the Ramblas, the Via Laietana, the Passeig de Colom on the seafront and the Plaça de Catalunya, its south-western limit. 

Metro: 8 metro stations serve the Gothic Quarter

L1: Cataluña and Urquinaona stations

L2: Paseo de Gracia station

L3: Liceu, Cataluña and Drassanes stations

L4: Jaume I and Urquinaona stations

 

Where is the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona?

 

El Gòtic from past to present

The Gothic Quarter was built on the remains of the Roman colony of Barcino and contains numerous Gothic buildings dating from the medieval and neo-Gothic periods, proof of its long restoration. The historic centre of the city is a real labyrinth... Around the Cathedral, wander through the narrow streets - it's very easy - to discover the oldest monuments, churches and remains as well as old and new shops and businesses. It is here, just a stone's throw away, that the most decisive events in Barcelona's history were played out.

 

A district that is still as important administratively for the city as ever, since it houses not only the "Palau de la Generalitat", the seat of the Catalan government but also the "Casa de la Ciutat of Ajuntament", Barcelona's city hall. Two buildings face each other on the Sant Jaume square. Another historical place, the "Palau Reial Major", the residence of the Counts of Barcelona, then of the Kings of the Crown of Aragon. A popular legend repeats unceasingly that it was in this palace that Christopher Columbus was received by the Catholic kings, Ferdinand II of Aragon and Isabella I of Castile, on his return from the Americas in 1493. Columbus is said to have presented his discoveries and treasures to the Spanish monarchs here. Popular legends add to the charm of this area, which we invite you to visit.

 

Tour of the Gothic Quarter

Here is a small selection of places to discover in the Barrio Gótico.

Take advantage of our good addresses such as restaurants  and shops. This is also part of discovering a city.

>>> We recommend the best hotels in the Gothic Quarter, a great place to stay in the Catalan capital.

 

 

1- Barcelona Cathedral - Catedral de la Santa Creu ***

Monument

Barcelona Cathedral

Catedral de la Santa Creu 

The Santa Creu Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, is a Catholic church located in the Gothic quarter of Barcelona. It was built in the 13th century on the ruins of an old Romanesque church. Barcelona Cathedral has impressive Gothic architecture, with pointed vaults, arcades, and chapels decorated with sculptures and paintings. It also houses many treasures, including paintings, sculptures, and ancient manuscripts.

 

Barcelona Cathedral is dedicated to Saint Eulalia

Saint Eulalia, a young Christian martyr executed in Barcelona in the 3rd century for refusing to renounce her faith. She became the patron saint of the city of Barcelona and her statue can be seen in the cathedral.

 

Do not confuse Barcelona Cathedral with the Sagrada Família Basilica.

When people want to talk about Sagrada Família they say "Barcelona Cathedral". But it is not. If these two monuments are indeed two religious, catholic buildings, the only cathedral in the city is the Santa Creu Cathedral. The Sagrada Família is in fact a basilica designed in 1883 by the Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí in a modernist style.

 

Barcelona cathedral

Catedral de la Santa Creu 

 

Why is Barcelona Cathedral famous?

Although less visited than the Sagrada Familia, the cathedral is famous for its Catalan Gothic architecture, considered one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in Spain.
For its history, which goes back more than 2000 years. It has also witnessed many important historical events, such as the coronation of Ferdinand II of Aragon in 1479.
For its chapel dedicated to Saint Eulalia, which contains a statue of the saint, as well as relics and precious ornaments.
For its cloisters, which date from the 13th century and are considered to be one of the best examples of Gothic art in Spain.

 

 

What to see inside Barcelona Cathedral?

The Santa Creu Cathedral is considered one of Barcelona's architectural gems. It is also an active place of worship for the city's Catholics, with daily masses and regular liturgical celebrations. This is something you should bear in mind when you visit.

The interior of Barcelona Cathedral is a real artistic and religious treasure.
Here are some of the things you can see:
> The choir is located at the eastern end of the cathedral and is adorned with magnificent sculptures and paintings. It also houses a baroque organ and a 17th-century lectern.
> The cloister of the cathedral dates from the 14th century and contains a peaceful garden surrounded by Gothic arcades. It is an oasis of freshness and a haven of peace disturbed by the cries of thirteen geese: their number symbolises the age of Eulalia at the time of her martyrdom (Saint Eulalia, co-patroness of Barcelona, was a young virgin martyred in Roman times).
> Barcelona Cathedral has several richly decorated chapels, including the Chapel of Saint Lucy, the Chapel of the Pietà, the Chapel of Saint Benedict, and the Chapel of the Virgin of Montserrat. In the first chapel, a statue surrounded by candles is the Christ of Lepanto, one of the many protectors of Barcelona.
> The cathedral's stained glass windows are of great beauty and historical importance, as some of them date from the 14th century.
> The cathedral's treasury contains many precious objects, including silver sculptures, reliquaries, ancient manuscripts, and liturgical vestments.
> Barcelona Cathedral has several crypts, including the archaeological crypt, which contains the remains of the ancient Roman city of Barcino.
Finally, the Santa Creu Cathedral also hosts temporary exhibitions and cultural events throughout the year.

 

Barcelona Cathedral

Catedral de la Santa Creu 

 

What to see outside Barcelona Cathedral?

You can also simply visit the exterior of the Cathedral of the Holy Cross.

Its particularities make it a major tourist attraction as well as a meeting place for Catalans who love to dance the Sardana. The antique market, for example, is particularly famous.

Among the main attractions to discover outside the Santa Creu you will appreciate
> The façade of the cathedral is a fine example of Catalan Gothic architecture, with sculptures and ornaments that reflect the history and culture of the region.
> The Portal de San Ivo is one of the main entrances to the cathedral and is adorned with sculptures representing the life of Saint Ivo.
> The Plaza de la Seu is a lively gathering place directly opposite the cathedral. It is lined with shops, restaurants and bars, and is a popular venue for local festivals and events.
> From the top of its gothic-style tower: a magnificent panoramic view of the city. The tower can be reached by a spiral staircase of over 200 steps.
> The cloister of the cathedral is accessible from the outside and offers a magnificent view of the interior gardens. It is a peaceful place to walk around and enjoy the beauty of the place.

 

The famous Sardanes on Cathedral square:

In the square in front of Barcelona Cathedral, there are demonstrations of traditional Catalan dances called "Sardanes". This dance is performed in a circle, holding hands, and is accompanied by 11 musicians playing 12 instruments. The demonstrations take place every week, at different times depending on the time of year. Saturdays at 6 pm from 9 February to 13 July and from 14 September to 17 November, and Sundays and public holidays at 11.15 am from 15 September to 28 July.

 

Barcelona Cathedral

Catedral de la Santa Creu 

 

Dates of the construction of Barcelona Cathedral

The construction of the Santa Creu Cathedral in Barcelona began in the 13th century, on the ruins of an old Romanesque church dedicated to Saint Eulalia. The initial project was to build a large Gothic church to serve as the seat of the bishop of Barcelona.
Work began in 1298 under the direction of the architect Berenguer de Montagut, but was interrupted for several decades due to financial problems and political instability in the region.
Construction resumed in 1330 under the direction of the architect Jaume Fabre, who added several chapels and a choir to the building. Work was interrupted again in the 14th century due to the Black Death and conflicts with the Crown of Aragon.
In the 15th century,  construction resumed under the direction of the architect Guillem Bofill, who added the main façade and the tower of the cathedral. Work continued in the 16th century with the addition of the cloister and the chapel of Santa Lucia.
Finally, in 1913, a major renovation was undertaken to restore the building to its current appearance.

 

Where is Barcelona Cathedral?

 

 

 

Schedule of visits to Barcelona Cathedral

Opening hours for cultural and tourist visits during the week:

9.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. (access closes at 5.45 p.m.).

Opening hours  for cultural and tourist visits on Saturdays

9.30am to 5.15pm (access closes at 4.30pm).

Times for cultural and tourist visits on Sundays

2:00 pm to 5:00 pm (access closes at 4:30 pm).

 

Mass times in Barcelona Cathedral

Weekday Masses (in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel):

09:00 mass in Catalan - 11:00 mass in Catalan - 12:00 mass in Spanish - 19:15

Mass in Catalan.

Masses on Saturdays and the eve of holidays (in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel):

09:00 Mass in Catalan - 11:00 Mass in Catalan - 12:00 Mass in Spanish High Altar - 18:00 Mass in Spanish - 19:15 Mass in Catalan.

Mass on Sundays and public holidays (at the main altar):

09:00 mass in Catalan - 10:30Conventual in Catalan - 12:00 mass in Spanish - 13:00 mass in Catalan - 18:00 mass in Spanish - 19:15 mass in Catalan.

Address : Pla de la Seu, 3
Opening hours : Weekdays: 9:30 am to 6:30 pm (access closes at 5:45 pm). Saturdays: from 9.30 am to 5.15 pm (access closes at 4.30 pm). Sundays: from 14:00 to 17:00 (access closes at 16:30).
Phone : +34 93 342 82 60
Metro/Bus : Metro: L4 Jaume I / Bus:17, 19, 40, 45, 100

2- Sant Jaume Square

Monument

Placa Sant Jaume

La Plaça Sant Jaume

Back in the Roman period this square was (and still is) where important government buildings were found. On one side there is the Palace of the Generalitat (the government of the Autonomous Community of Catalunya) and on the other stands the City Hall. This square has been witness to some of the most important events in recent Catalan history, such as the proclamation of the Catalan State in 1931 or the return of Josep Tarradelles from exile in 1977. On Sunday mornings, people come to dance the Sardana, the national dance of Catalonia -- it's a very Catalan moment and worth checking out.

Address : Plaça de Sant Jaume
Metro/Bus : Metro: L4 Jaume I

3- Barcelona City Museum

Museum

Barcelona City Museum

Plaça del Rei

Museu d'Història de la Ciutat de Barcelona.

The most important to visit is its underground exposition where reminds of the old " Augusta Barcino" are exposed.

 

You will see here mosaics, wall paintings, graves and a pool, excavated remains of ancient structures, documents, engravings, etc.

 

>Take advantage of being in the area to visit Barcelona Cathedral, which is just a short walk away. One of the most important and symbolic monuments in Barcelona.

Articket: Art Passport Card for 6 Art Museums in Barcelona

Address : pl del Rei, 1
Opening hours : Monday to Thursday from 10am to 2pm and from 4pm to 7pm, Friday from 10pm to 2pm.
Phone : 00 34 93 256 21 22

4- King's Square, Tinell and Saint Agata's Chapel

Monument

Placa del Rei

La Plaça del Rei

La Plaça del Rei

La Plaça del Rei

La Plaça del Rei, Tinell and the chapel Saint Agata

 
This is the most handsome section of ancient Barcelona. It is a square outlined by gothic buildings toped by the facade of the former main Royal Palace and its watchtower- a true skyscraper for the 16th Century. The Plaça del Rei ( the King Square) is the most noble urban space of old Barcelona. On this majestic square stand some of the important medieval buildings of the city: the Palau Reial Mayor which contains the exquisite Saló Tinell banqueting hall, the Chapel of Santa Agatha and the Palau de Lloctinent.

 

>Take advantage of being in the area to visit Barcelona Cathedral, which is just a short walk away. One of the most important and symbolic monuments in Barcelona.

Address : Plaça del Rei
Opening hours : Tuesday to saturday from 10am à 2pm then from 4 to 8pm.
Phone : 93 316 27 40 (Santa Ágata)
Metro/Bus : Metro: L4 Jaume I

5- The Frederic Mares Museum

Museum

Frederic Mares Museum

Museo Frederic Marès - Barcelona

Museo Frederic Marès

Museo Frederic Marès - Barcelona

Frederic Marès, the founder of this museum was a sculptor, historian, and a teacher. Its heterogeneous collection includes the most important gathering of Hispanic sculpture from the 12th to the 19th centuries in Spain.

 

We appreciate this museum because of its inside courtyard, fresh and perfect for having a break while visiting the Gothic area of Barcelona!

>Take advantage of being in the area to visit Barcelona Cathedral, which is just a short walk away. One of the most important and symbolic monuments in Barcelona.

Articket: Art Passport Card for 6 Art Museums in Barcelona

Address : Plaça de Sant Iu, 5-6
Opening hours : From Tuesday to Saturday: from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m // Sundays and public holidays: from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m // Monday: closed except holidays.
Phone : +34 932 563 500
Metro/Bus : Metro: Line 4 (Jaume I) Bus: 17, 19, 40 and 45

6- Nova Square

Monument

Placa Nova

Plaça Nova

Plaça Nova

Plaça Nova

Plaça Nova is the place where the old city was born : Barcino. These letters are sculptured in the square. Two Romanesque towers flank the door Del Bisbal. This square becomes a market with antique dealers every Thursday from 9h to 20h. Festivals and Sardanas are held here also.

 

>Take advantage of being in the area to visit Barcelona Cathedral, which is just a short walk away. One of the most important and symbolic monuments in Barcelona.

Address : Plaça Nova
Metro/Bus : Metro: L3 Liceu or L4 Jaume I

7- La Plaza del Pi ***

Monument

Placa del Pi

Plaça del Pi

One of the best loved areas for artists and bohemians is the confluence of the Plaça del Pi, located just off the Ramblas.

The area is dominated by the church of Santa María del Pi (XIV-XV c.) with its huge multicolored rose window. Frequent arts and crafts fairs, as well as sales of natural foods such as honey and "mató" (a mild cheese) are held in this square. We can also find here the house of the Gremio de los Revendedores, which dates from 1685.

Address : Plaça del Pi
Opening hours : Chruch: every day from 9.30am to 1pm and 5pm to 8:30pm
Metro/Bus : Metro: L3 Liceu
Last comment
Must see
Tina (17 Mar 2023 - 11:28)
The entire Gothic Quarter is a fantastic place to visit. The essence of Barcelona.
We found a very good hotel there - Hotel Suizo- very conveniently close to the Sant Jaum square and therefore in the heart of the district. Do not miss the visit to the Cathedral.
Add a new comment View comments

4 comments

  1. Must see - Tina (17 Mar 2023 - 11:28)

    The entire Gothic Quarter is a fantastic place to visit. The essence of Barcelona.
    We found a very good hotel there - Hotel Suizo- very conveniently close to the Sant Jaum square and therefore in the heart of the district. Do not miss the visit to the Cathedral.

  2. barrio gotico to visit - jim (11 Feb 2014 - 16:45)

    Barrio Gotico is the first place to visit while in Barcelona. Beautiful and historic!!

  3. barrio gotico - eduardo alperin (6 May 2011 - 09:00)

    el barrio gotico tiene mucho mas de loq ue muestra esta pagina.desmerece lo que tiene Barcelona.

  4. Santa Maria del Pi - Lino (23 Nov 2010 - 02:58)

    Sono entusiasmato perchè Domenica prossima 7 nov 2010 andrò proprio a S.Maria del Pi con la Polifonica Karalitana della Cattedrale di Cagliari (Sardegna). Animeremo la S.Messa e a seguire ci esibiremo in un Concerto diretti dal M.o Mons. Gianfranco Deiosso.

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4 comments

  1. Must see - Tina (17 Mar 2023 - 11:28)

    The entire Gothic Quarter is a fantastic place to visit. The essence of Barcelona.
    We found a very good hotel there - Hotel Suizo- very conveniently close to the Sant Jaum square and therefore in the heart of the district. Do not miss the visit to the Cathedral.

  2. barrio gotico to visit - jim (11 Feb 2014 - 16:45)

    Barrio Gotico is the first place to visit while in Barcelona. Beautiful and historic!!

  3. barrio gotico - eduardo alperin (6 May 2011 - 09:00)

    el barrio gotico tiene mucho mas de loq ue muestra esta pagina.desmerece lo que tiene Barcelona.

  4. Santa Maria del Pi - Lino (23 Nov 2010 - 02:58)

    Sono entusiasmato perchè Domenica prossima 7 nov 2010 andrò proprio a S.Maria del Pi con la Polifonica Karalitana della Cattedrale di Cagliari (Sardegna). Animeremo la S.Messa e a seguire ci esibiremo in un Concerto diretti dal M.o Mons. Gianfranco Deiosso.

Your comment has been recorded and will be published after moderation.

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