Barcelona Cathedral, officially the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, anchors the city's Gothic Quarter with soaring vaults and a richly carved façade. Construction began in 1298 on the site of a Romanesque church, but the front that greets visitors is a later addition: its neo-Gothic façade dates largely from the 19th century, with the central tower completed in 1913.
Inside, side chapels line the nave, while an alabaster tomb in the crypt beneath the high altar holds the remains of Saint Eulalia, Barcelona's co-patron saint. Tradition says she was martyred as a teenager during Roman persecution. The cathedral's quiet cloister is home to 13 white geese, said to represent her age at death. Together, the medieval interior, later additions and living traditions make this more than a monument to a single era.
Check the cathedral's official website for current visiting hours and tickets, as sightseeing and worship schedules differ. Dress respectfully for an active place of worship, and allow time for the cloister as well as the main church. If available, a rooftop visit offers a closer look at the towers and views across Barcelona's old city.