A newer face
The medieval cathedral had a plain front for centuries. The neo-Gothic façade you see was added in the late 1800s, based on a much older design.
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Barcelona Cathedral: thirteen geese in the cloister
Built mostly between the 13th and 15th centuries on top of Roman and early Christian remains, Barcelona Cathedral got its spiky Gothic-looking façade only in the late 19th century.
Built13th–15th centuries
Façadelate 19th century
Dedicated toHoly Cross & Saint Eulalia
Cloister finished1448
Hear the Barcelona Cathedral story, in the app's voice
A short preview. The full story plays on its own when you walk up to it with Urban Tales.
Three stories most visitors miss
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2
Thirteen geese
In the cloister live 13 white geese, one for each year of Saint Eulalia, Barcelona's young patron saint, who by tradition was 13 when she was martyred in Roman times. Her tomb is in the crypt under the altar.
3
Knights of the Golden Fleece
In 1519 Emperor Charles V held a meeting of the Order of the Golden Fleece here. The knights' painted coats of arms are still on the choir stalls.
TipTake the lift to the rooftop for a view over the Gothic Quarter, and visit the cloister and its geese last. Shoulders and knees should be covered. With Urban Tales running, its story plays as you reach the square.
Nearby landmarks
Barcelona Cathedral: common questions
Why are there 13 geese in Barcelona Cathedral?
They honour Saint Eulalia, the city's co-patron, who according to tradition was 13 years old when she was martyred.
How old is Barcelona Cathedral?
It was built mostly between the 13th and 15th centuries. The main façade is much newer, from the late 19th century.
Is Barcelona Cathedral the Sagrada Família?
No. The cathedral is the medieval Gothic church in the old town; the Sagrada Família is Gaudí's basilica in the Eixample.