Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar

The Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar in Barcelona, also known as The Cathedral of the Sea, is one of the best examples of Catalan Gothic, and has been awarded the title of minor basilica since 1923.

This elegant religious building was constructed between 1329 and 1383, and it is said that the work was directed by architect Berenguer de Montagut. Considered by many to be the most beautiful church in Barcelona, the imposing basilica is located in the heart of the city in the fashionable Born district, not far from the sea, and this is the reason for its name. It is no coincidence that it is dedicated to the Virgin Mary who protects sailors.

The Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar is one of the best performing examples of Gothic architecture due to its harmonious proportions and the total serenity of the complex. In the Middle Ages, during the long periods of time it took to build a church, its architectural style often changed, but Santa Maria del Mar in Barcelona is an exception: the Basilica was built in the 14th century, erected on land that was once occupied by a Roman amphitheatre. It was built in just 55 years, from 1329 to 1384, and is the only church still standing today in pure Catalan Gothic style.

The interior of the Cathedral

The structure of the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar is composed of three naves of the same height, supported by very tall columns, set 13 metres apart, a distance unsurpassed by any other existing medieval building. This gives the impression that gravity has been inverted, although it must be said that the numerous stained glass windows in the church of Santa Maria del Mar play an important role in giving this impression. The Ascension window, in the chapel of Santa Maria, and the basin in the chapel of Sant Rafael, as well as the large rose window are some of the most remarkable examples.

The rose window was destroyed during the earthquake that shook Barcelona in 1428, and rebuilt faithful to the original in the mid-15th century. The design is unique and was considered revolutionary for the time in which it was designed.

If you look downstairs, you can see private tombs and those of the guilds, as well as those of Barcelona’s medieval brotherhoods. The basilica of Santa Maria del Mar, which was designed by Berenguer de Montagut, was the place of worship for the shipwrights and merchants of Gothic Barcelona. The basilica almost resembles a fortress with its monumental towers, and is definitely worth a visit, especially to admire the interior with its poignant stained glass windows.

Entrance tickets to Santa Maria del Mar

The cultural tour includes access to the interior of the basilica, the towers and the different levels of the terraces, the museum area and the crypt.

Opening Hours

• Monday to Saturday: 9 a.m. to 12 noon and 5 p.m. to 8.30 p.m
• Sundays and public holidays: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8.30 p.m

La Catedral del Mar, the book by Falcones

Spanish writer Ildefonso Falcones set a highly successful novel entitled La Catedral del Mar, from which a TV series was also adapted.