Cathedral of Barcelona(La Seu Cathedral), Spain
Cathedral of Barcelona, also known as La Seu Cathedral, is a fine example of Catalan Gothic architecture dating back to the 14th century, with its towers overlooking the entire Gothic Quarter of Barcelona.
The cathedral has always been the spiritual center of Barcelona, which was first a Roman temple, then a mosque behind its walls, and finally the Christian spirit hovering there, transforming into a church.
Construction of the cathedral began in 1298 during the reign of King Haume II and was completed in 1448. The original drawings of Charles Galte of Rouen from 1408 are used, which leads to a visual harmony in the appearance of the cathedral. The mixture of medieval and Renaissance style in the architectural jewel of La Seu Cathedral, show the finished look of the building with a large bell tower, covered in Gothic ridges, Gothic arches, beautifully sculpted choir and many chapels.
Particularly remarkable is the Capella de San Bennet, and in the crypt behind the altar is the impressive alabaster sarcophagus of Santa Eulalia, patroness of the cathedral and the city. The virgin, the daughter of a family of the upper class, was burned at the stake by the Romans for her beliefs - it is believed that this happened on February 12, 304.
The choir is one of the many masterpieces of the cathedral, and the white marble partition depicts the life of Saint Eulalia and includes beautifully carved Renaissance thrones, later decorated with European royal coats of arms. Undoubtedly the best part of La Seu Cathedral is its 14th century monastery, called by a historian "the best oasis in Barcelona".
Immediately to the right of the main entrance is the crucifix with the bent Christ of the 16th century, which once adorned the nose of the flagship of don Juan of Austria at the Battle of Lepanto. In the chapel in the opposite corner is a huge marble font and a historic plaque commemorating the baptism of six Caribbean Indians, brought by Christopher Columbus. Another surprise lies in the oasis-like Gothic gallery, which can be entered directly from Carrera del Bistre through Porta de Santa Eulalia.