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Barcelona's major cathedral is one of the finest cathedrals in
Spain and also on of the most famous examples of the Catalan Gothic
style in the world. The cathedral is located on the ruins of a early
Christian Basilica at the heart of the Barri G6tic. Most of the
building was erected between the late 13th century and the middle
of the 15th century, although the heavily ornate main facade and
octagonal dome were constructed at the beginning of the 20th century.
The impressive interior represents a harmonious blend of Medieval
and Renaissance styles, with a lofty triple nave, graceful arches,
29 side chapels and an intricately carved choir. Beneath the main
altar is the crypt of Santa Eulalia (the patron saint of Barcelona),
which contains her tomb.
Near the main entrance is the Chapel of Christ of Lepanto (formerly
the Chapter House), which is widely considered to be the finest
example of Gothic art in the cathedral. It contains the crucifix
carried on board La Real, the flagship of Don Juan of Austria, during
the famous Battle of Lepanto. The 14th-century cloister is the most
beautiful part of the cathedral, its garden of magnolias, palms
and fountains making a cool retreat from the heat of Barcelona.
There is even a small pond, with a flock of white geese, supposedly
symbolising Santa Eulalia's virginal purity. A small museum just
off the cloister shelters many of the cathedral's most precious
treasures.
Despite its grandeur, the cathedral remains very much a people's
church. Worshippers outnumber tourists and on Sundays Barcelonans
gather in Placa de la Seu at noon to perform the sardana, a stately
Catalan folk dance which symbolises unity.
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