Our first evening, the ancient Cathedral is just a few blocks from where we’re staying. The façade is a late — very late, for an edifice that has its roots in Roman times — addition from the late 19th century.
Inside, it is simply vast.
Much of the light in the front of the church comes from the tower.
Behind the altar is the crypt, housing the remains of the patron saint of Barcelona.
Near the front is the baptistery, with an enormous font carved from marble, and a bas relief of the Baptism of Christ.
Ringing the central space, typical with cathedrals, are the chapels. They range in dates from the 14th century to the 20th.
This one is especially over-the-top-baroque, Spain at the height of its power and wealth.
Hundreds of feet overheat, the vaulted ceiling has these medallions. It’s hard to imagine what it was like to build these things.
Afterwards, we had the good luck to run into Dani from altresbarcelones. He and his wife, lifelong residents of the city, took us around for a lovely and informative tour, in exchange for us helping them with their (already excellent) English. Thanks again, for all the insight into the hidden details even the locals don’t know!