Monastery of Sant Pau del Camp, the oldest church in Barcelona
The former Benedictine Monastery of Sant Pau del Camp is Barcelona’s oldest preserved church – and a true jewel of Catalan Romanesque.
It was probably built at the end of the 9th century: the founding of the monastery between the years 897 and 911 emerges from the few surviving documents. Gravestones of rich count families indicate that the monastery was very important in its heyday. Today the beautiful complex is a small oasis of peace in the otherwise so turbulent Raval district – and definitely worth a visit.
History of the Sant Pau del Camp monastery
Since the founding of the Roman settlement Barcino in today’s Gothic Quarter, there has also been settlement outside the city wall. It was located at the foot of Montjuic on a wide, agriculturally used area called “El Camp”.
There are few and sometimes contradicting documents on the history of the Sant Pau monastery. Based on remains from the Roman-Christian period, it is now assumed that the place was a Christian place of activity even before the Benedictine monastery was built. Traditions from the 5th century show that Saint Paulinus built a hospice here. Documents from 1420 took up these traditions – accordingly Paulinus was buried on the premises of the hospice.
It is certain that the monastery was founded between the years 897 and 911 by Count Guifre-Borell (Wilfredo II.). This is evidenced by the Count’s tombstone, which was found in 1596 and which is now on the wall of the left arm of the church building. Wilfredo II died on April 26, 911. He was the son of Wilfredo I el Vellonso (“the hairy one”), who introduced the hereditary nobility in the Spanish Mark in 897 and is considered the founding father of Catalonia.
From the time of its founding to the sacking and destruction by the Moors in 985, there are no written documents about the monastery. It is known that the Benedictines abandoned the monastery before it was sacked by the Moorish troops of Almanzor. Until the second founding of the monastery, more than 100 years later, it remained a simple church, although it did not house a congregation.
The nobles Geribert Guitard and his second wife Rotlendis, founders of the house of Bell Lloc, rebuilt the church building on their own at the end of the 11th century and united it with the monastery of Sant Cugat del Vallés so that a new monastery could be founded. The noble couple placed the monastery under the control of the Holy See in Rome as a donation on April 29, 1117 – but the monastery was still allowed to act independently. In the 13th century, the Sant Pau del Camp monastery was no longer dependent on Sant Cugat. In 1508 Sant Pau was united with the monastery of Montserrat, in 1593 again with Sant Cugat and in 1617 with the monastery of Sant Pere de la Portella del Berguedà.
During the French occupation from 1808 to 1814, the monastery was used as a hospital for the French troops and then converted into a barracks for the Italian troops. In 1835 the Benedictine monks were released from the monastery. The monastery then served as a school and barracks until the church was finally declared a national cultural monument in 1879.
Today the restored Romanesque complex is a museum and a cultural venue.
The architecture of the monument
Although the monastery has existed since the 10th century, the current building is the result of extensive renovation and renovation work from the 12th century. Over the centuries, further modifications and extensions were added. As a result, little has been preserved from the original church building. The monastery of Sant Pau del Camp is assigned to the Romanesque, i.e. the pre-Gothic style. But there are also many Gothic elements to be seen.
The monastery church consists of a single nave and the floor plan is based on a Greek cross. The portal, which comes from an older church building from the Visigothic period, is particularly worth seeing. From the simple interior of the church one reaches the beautiful cloister with its multi-pass arches from the 13th century via the Gothic chapter house – it is clearly attributable to Moorish influence and unique in Europe.
Inside the church you can see typical Romanesque elements such as windings and barrel vaults.
In the garden is the Casa Abacial, which was completed in the 15th century. The portal is flanked by two marble columns on which the archivolt, the arched semicircular arch, rests. On the tympanum – the decorative surface in the arched area of ââthe portal – Jesus Christ is depicted together with Peter and Paul (Pere i Paul). The pilasters of the pillars on the outside of the church are adorned with human faces, mythical creatures and plants.
The location of Sant Paul del Camp
The first residents of today’s Raval district settled here around 4,000 years ago. This is shown by excavations from 1989 near the monastery, in which, in addition to the remains of a Roman settlement, remains of a settlement from the Bronze Age were found. A year later, when a Civil Guard barracks were demolished, a Neolithic necropolis with 25 graves was found. The area around the monastery housed one of the earliest human settlements in Barcelona.
“El Camp” is the name given to the agricultural area in front of the city walls of Barcelona in the 9th century. At that time the monastery church was located far outside the city, in the open space. Until the Middle Ages, these fields were largely undeveloped. At the end of the 14th century, Raval was finally incorporated into Barcelona. Today, the Raval district, in the southern tip of which the monastery is located, forms the old town together with the Barri Gòtic and El Born districts to the east.
The Sant Pau del Camp monastery is only about 200 meters from the southern end of the Rambla de Raval. The way is signposted.
More interesting facts about Sant Pau monastery
The Spanish mark
The Spanish mark was the politico-military border region between the Moorish Al Andalús and the Franconian Empire. The Moors reached the Iberian Island in 711. After the destruction of Tarragona in 714, Barcelona surrendered and thus escaped destruction by the conquerors.
The early Christian basilica on the site of today’s cathedral became a mosque. In 801 the Carolingians under Louis the Pious, King of the Franks, recaptured Barcelona from the Moors. In the same year, Emperor Charlemagne founded the Spanish Mark to defend the borders and to recapture all of Catalonia. The rule of the Moors lasted less than 100 years. After the reconquest, the Carolingians installed the Counts of Barcelona. Guifre II introduced the hereditary nobility in Barcelona, which made the counts independent of the Franks. The Moors, militarily weakened, attacked, among other things, the monastery of Sant Pau del Camp, which at that time was not yet within the city walls. After the death of Guifre II, the unity of the Counts of Barcelona broke up. The core, which consisted of the counties of Barcelona, Vic and Girona, remains, however – today’s Catalonia developed from this.
Life in the Sant Pau monastery
Little is known about the beginnings of monastic life in Sant Pau.
There have only been records since 1229, when the Claustal Tarraconense Congregation was founded. The congregation was an amalgamation of all independent monasteries in Catalonia under the direction of the prior of Sant Pau. According to records, the monastery experienced its heyday in the early 13th century, when a total of at least 10 monks lived there – including a sexton, a person in charge of the monks’ clothing and a nurse. Previously, no more than 5 monks had lived there, so that the increase in the monastery made it necessary to expand. The biggest turning point was the merger with the monastery of Sant Pere de la Portella in the 17th century. The monks from this monastery now also moved to Sant Pau, which entailed further renovations. In 1672 the College and the Novitiate of the Congregation were also transferred to Sant Pau. Since then, not only the abbot and the monks have lived on the site, but also “secular” people, including three professors (one for philosophy, two for theology), a librarian, an organist, as well as the monastic students and novices.
Why a visit to the monastery complex is worthwhile
Barcelona’s trendy Raval district – known for its multi-cultural and lively hustle and bustle. And right in the middle, like a hidden treasure: Sant Pau del Camp, the oldest preserved church building in the city. Noise and hectic are quickly forgotten during a visit, and on hot days it is pleasantly cool here. You can admire the Romanesque architecture, the many Gothic elements and above all the cloister with its Moorish influences, which is unique in Europe. During a guided tour you will also get a lot of interesting background knowledge about the history of the monastery and the life of the monks within the complex.
Top 10 Barcelona churches that you can’t miss | bizFlats
Barcelona churches are synonymous with magnificent architecture and unforgettable history. With over 200 churches scattered around the city, we’ve picked out 10 Barcelona churches worth visiting thanks to their historical, cultural or architectural value.
We will cover the city’s most famous churches – from the Sagrada Familia and the Barcelona cathedral and Santa María del Mar – to some lesser known but equally as stunning churches, just waiting to be discovered.
If you’re visiting Barcelona, don’t miss out on these hidden-away delights. Let us take you on a tour of Barcelona churches to discover another side of the city.
These 10 Barcelona churches are the ones we recommend you must see on your next visit!
Table of Contents
Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar
This stunning example of Catalan Gothic architecture has a special place in the heart of all Barcelona locals, which was built thanks to the donations of local businessmen and residents. We’d thoroughly recommend a guided door to discover its crypts and rooftops with breathtaking views. Discover more in our article on this special Barcelona church.
Interested in learning more about this important piece of history? This Barcelona church inspired a book by ldefonso Falcones plus a TV series.
You can discover many more books written about or set in Barcelona here.
Address: Plaça de Santa Maria, 1, 08003 Barcelona
Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor
This Neogothic monument is located almost 600 m above sea level with views overlooking the entire city. This Barcelona church started out as a small chapel; the construction as the church we know it as today started in 1902 and ended in 1961.
Why not make a day of it and also discover the Tibidabo amusement park? It’s the perfect plan for the whole family.
Address: Ctra. de Vallvidrera al Tibidabo, 111, 08035 Barcelona
Monestir de Pedralbes
Founded in 1327, this Gothic monastery just outside the city centre boasts a three-floor cloister, a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions, and beautiful gardens. What’s more, its walls are brimming with history.
Address: Baixada del Monestir, 9, 08034 Barcelona
Basílica de la Sagrada Família
Need we say more? The Sagrada Familia, the ultimate Gaudí’s masterpieces, is a church that is synonymous with Barcelona.
Don’t miss the chance to uncover the secrets of this World Heritage Site, which is a monument to Catalan identity. Discover more about the history of this epic Barcelona church and visiting it here.
Address: C. de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona
Catedral de la Santa Creu i Santa Eulàlia
The name of the Cathedral of Barcelona can be translated as “Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Sant Eulalia” after the city’s patron saint, who is buried inside its walls.
This beautiful Barcelona church is an example of Gothic Catalan architecture that took 150 years to build. It can be found in the heart of the Gothic quarter. Discover our guide to one of Barcelona’s most fascinating neighbourhood’s here.
Address: Pla de la Seu, s/n, 08002 Barcelona
Basílica de Montserrat
The church of the Montserrat monastery is a must for all those who visit Barcelona. Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims who once travelled to this mountain to visit this sanctuary of the Virgin Mary of Montserrat.
A thousand years have passed since its founding, yet believers and non-believers from around the world still flock to this Barcelona church. Set in the mountains, it makes the perfect day trip for walkers. Discover how to get there and what to see whilst there here.
Address: 08199 Montserrat, Barcelona
Basílica Santa María del Pi
A stone’s throw away from the city’s famous avenue ‘Las Ramblas’, you’ll find art, culture and community tucked away in this historic square. Wander around this Gothic-style church and contemplate its beautiful stained glass windows, including the fascinating “Rose window”.
Address: Plaça del Pi, 7, 08002 Barcelona
EPSON DSC picture
Església de Sant Felipe Neri
On first glance, you perhaps may not even notice the San Felipe Neri church tucked away in this quaint, tranquil square, yet its walls hold a tragic tale that dates back to the Spanish Civil War.
Definitely worth a visit, if you would like to learn more about the neighbourhood of Cuitat Vella, where this Barcelona church is located, check out our guide here.
Address: Plaça de Sant Felip Neri, 2, 08002 Barcelona
Monastir de Santa Anna
Carrer de Santa Anna, 29, 08002 Barcelona
This former monastery located in the Gothic quarter is a Barcelona church you don’t want to miss. This Roman-style church still conserves much of its original architecture, despite having some Gothic elements.
Check out its website before visiting to discover concerts and events held in its beautiful courtyard.
Basílica de la Puríssima Concepció
The curious thing about this basilica is that it was once the Jonqueres Monastery. In the 19th century, stone by stone, it was moved to its new location in the heart of L’Exiample.
If you plan to visit the sights of Eixample, don’t miss this little-known Barcelona church, with a tranquil garden home to a plethora of exotic plants tucked away inside its walls.
Address: Aragó, 299, Carrer de Roger de Llúria, 70, 08009 Barcelona
Given these uncertain times, we recommend you check visiting times for Barcelona churches either online or by phone before you visit.
We hope you enjoy this guide to Barcelona churches. Let us know, which is your favourite Barcelona church?
7 must-see temples in Barcelona
In total, there are about 200 “objects of religious worship” in Barcelona, as the churches, cathedrals, mosques and synagogues of the Catalan capital are officially called. That is, a quantity beyond the limit not only for
tourists, but also for local residents who are not indifferent to the beauty of temples. In this article, we will talk about a few churches in Barcelona that, in our opinion, deserve, for one reason or another,
mandatory visit. So, the most beautiful and interesting churches in Barcelona.
Let’s start the top of the most beautiful and interesting churches in Barcelona with the main temple of the Catalan capital, and this is not the Sagrada Familia (Temple of the Sagrada Familia, A, Gaudi) at all – but the Cathedral of Barcelona.
The Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia in Barcelona, also known as the Barcelona Cathedral, is located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter and rightfully bears the title of one of the main
sights of the Catalan capital.
One of the main advantages of the Cathedral of the Holy Cross and Saint Eulalia, in addition to its artistic value, is that the centuries that rushed over this majestic Barcelona temple, no matter how
Strangely, they almost didn’t touch him.
Neither years, nor wars, nor dashing people, due to an almost mystical coincidence of circumstances, were not able to destroy it, keeping it intact to this day. And therefore, inside the Cathedral of St.
Eulalia reign 13-15 centuries – that is, the era when the cathedral was erected… read article
completely
Church of La Merce (Our Lady of Mercy), which has the status of a small basilica – one of the few Barcelona churches built in the Baroque style – and one of the richest in beauty and decoration
interiors, which is difficult to guess at the sight of a rather modest facade. However, the advantages of the Basilica of La Merce do not end there.
The parents of the future genius of surrealism, Salvador Dali, were married in La Merce, Picasso’s family lived on Amplé street next to the church, as well as the family of Ramon Mercader (the murderer of L.
D. Trotsky) …
In front of the image of Our Lady of Mercy in the Church of La Merce, before his first visit to Rome, José Maria Escriva de Balaguer, founder of Opus Dei, a Catholic organization with signs, prayed before his first visit to Rome.
totalitarian sect, “sung” by Dan Brown in the novel “The Da Vinci Code” …. read the full article
If there is a church in Barcelona that boasts the most impressive location on the city map, it is definitely the Temple of the Sacred Heart on Mount Tibidabo.
The idea of building a temple on the top of Mount Tibidabo (516.2 m) arose at the end of the 19th century due to rumors that quickly spread throughout the city about the proposed construction here, on Tibidabo,
a Protestant temple and a hotel-casino – that is, the most real “dens of evil, godlessness and debauchery” which could not be allowed under any circumstances.
As a matter of urgency, a “Council of Catholic Knights” was created, which included twelve wealthy and devout Barcelona businessmen.
“Soviet” and acquired the ownership of 30,000 sq. m of land
which in 1886 he handed over to the Italian priest Juan Bosco (canonized in 1934).
Santa Maria del Mar, perhaps more than all other churches in Barcelona, has received the attention of both writers and filmmakers. Many historical events are associated with it, and even more
the number of urban traditions and legends, which, in general, is not surprising, given that this Gothic temple appeared on the map of Barcelona in the distant fourteenth century.
The Church of St. Mary on the Sea, the Naval Cathedral of Barcelona, as this temple is sometimes called, is one of the most amazing Gothic structures not only in Barcelona, but in all old Europe – and
After all, we travel a lot and actively, and therefore there is something to compare with.
I declare responsibly: if you look at anything in Old Barcelona without hesitation and immediately, then this particular church.
And so, after listening to my recommendations, leaving aside the Gothic Quarter with
its Cathedral, you will delve into the La Ribera area along the medieval street of the Goldsmiths, which will lead you to the main facade of the temple… read full article
I will not be original, and perhaps I will repeat myself for the twentieth time, but I am still deeply convinced: to be in Barcelona and not visit the Sagrada Familia is almost a crime – and even, if you wish, without
“almost”.
The most famous masterpiece of Antonio Gaudí;
unconditional symbol of the Catalan capital; the famous “long-term construction” of our time and one of the ten most visited attractions in the world; first property on Tripadvisor to score over
100,000 comments – it’s all about him, about Sagrada Familia: an ingenious project that combines science, religion, nature and architecture.
The Sagrada Familia is the Universe that emerged from a point as a result of a brilliant explosion in the brain of a Catalan architect – and is still expanding (this is not
metaphor: more than 130 years have passed since the start of construction, but no one can say for sure even now when it will be completed).
.. read the full article
Santa Maria del Pi, located a stone’s throw from the Ramblas, is one of the most impressive examples of ponderous Catalan Gothic, whose churches resemble rather fortresses.
I will be frank: the beauty of the Gothic temples of Barcelona was not immediately revealed to me. But it opened – and now I would hardly exchange it for any other. And this beauty is precisely in power, in simplicity, in
lack of pretentiousness.
Barcelona churches are the same houses of God as everywhere else, only God is perceived in them somewhat differently: not a glamorous idol, accustomed to luxury and gilding, but majestic, calm and omnipotent
father, as he should be, I think, to be.
The main beauty of the Catalan Gothic churches is not in their stone shell, but in what this shell hides from our eyes. To understand this, it is enough
enter once inside the same Santa Maria del Pi… read the full article
We are talking about the Basilica of Saints Justo and Pastor, which is considered by many to be the oldest of the Christian churches in Barcelona, and with which many interesting Barcelona traditions, stories and
facts dating back to the distant Middle Ages.
The construction of the Gothic building of the church began in 1342 on the very spot where early Christians were martyred in Roman times, and in the 5th century, during the Arian period, already
there was a Christian church, at the beginning of the 8th century, after the conquest of Barcelona by Muslims, turned into a mosque … read the full article
BARCELONA FROM A AND TO Z
Related articles:
Barcelona Attractions
Secrets of the Old City
Gothic Quarter of Barcelona
Contact us:
Phone, WhatsApp, Viber, Telegram
+34 630917047
We are on Facebook
We are on Instagram
18 churches in Barcelona that are perfect for weddings
Looking for the best churches for weddings in Barcelona ? Then today is the day! In Spain’s second largest city, more and more foreign and Spanish couples want to get married.
And there are magical and charming churches where you can say “yes” to each other in the Catholic rite.
Barcelona and its multiculturalism, exclusive spaces, gastronomy and works of art is a magical place where you can swear eternal love. Thanks to Gaudí, this city is the cradle of Catalan modernism and is home to the most beautiful churches and romantic cathedrals.
We love the couples who go to this city! After all, foreign weddings are increasingly celebrated in this small piece of land, and many foreign couples come to Barcelona to have a traditional, Catholic wedding in one of the churches.
So, if you already know everything about Catholic religious weddings in Spain , it’s time to get acquainted with some of the most beautiful wedding churches in the country – they are in Barcelona!
Without further ado… let’s get started!
Sagrada Familia
This article couldn’t have started otherwise, so we’ll start with the famous Sagrada Familia.
Who does not know this cathedral? Everyone knows this cathedral as a symbol of Barcelona both in Spain and abroad. The majesty of this creation by Gaudi delights all people every day . In the oldest part of the cathedral, the crypt, small wedding ceremonies are held, which makes this place special and original for your wedding. Without a doubt, this is one of the best wedding churches in Barcelona.
La Sagrada Familia. Photo via: Pinterest.com
Barcelona Cathedral
The impressive Barcelona Cathedral has seen important weddings such as that of Infanta Cristina . For this event, the Gothic-style temple was dressed up for the arrival of very distinguished guests. Its monumental character and spacious area are ideal for hosting an elegant wedding with a large number of guests in the heart of Barcelona.
La Catedral de Barcelona. Photo via: catedralbcn.org
Tibidabo Basilica
If you are looking for a magical place to tie the knot, then the Tibidabo Basilica might be just that.
You will walk down the aisle enjoying the best views of the Catalan city . A very unusual temple dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, with double staircase that would make even Cinderella herself fall in love.
La Basilica del Tibidabo. Photo via: templotibidabo.es
Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Pedralbes
Royal Monastery of Santa Maria de Pedralbes dates from the 14th century. It consists of the Gothic building group . Its impressive three-story cloister with capitals, which adorns the coat of arms of the Counts of Barcelona, houses the tomb of Queen Elisende.
El Real Monasterio de Santa Maria de Pedralbes. Photo via: monestirpedralbes.barcelona
La Merce Basilica
In the heart of the Gothic Quarter is one of the most important churches in Barcelona – Basilica de la Merce. This baroque church was named after the city’s patron saint. The Basilica de la Merce was built on the site of a former medieval church.
We love the weddings that take place in this beautiful church!
La Basilica de la Merce. Photo via: basilicadelamerce.com
Santa Anna Church
Santa Anna Church stands out among the shopping streets as a hidden treasure. Its cloister is the most important pearl of this monumental complex, in which two architectural styles coexist: Romanesque and Gothic . The perfect place for all those brides and grooms who love history and art.
Basilica of Santa Maria del Pi
Continuing to explore the Catalan Gothic, we can not bypass the Basilica of Santa Maria del Pi, located very close to Las Ramblas . The main facade of the building is decorated with a large window with a twelve-beam rose. The basilica burned down during the Spanish Civil War and was rebuilt in 1950s and is now in excellent condition, impressing all visitors with its beautiful central nave.
La Basilica Santa Maria del Pi. Photo via: basilicadelpi.cat
Monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat
Located at an altitude of 720 meters above sea level , the monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat is a popular pilgrimage destination as well as a prestigious venue for religious ceremonies.
The monastery is divided into several buildings, in addition to the basilica and monastery buildings, there are also living quarters and places for recreation on the territory due to the fact that a large number of tourists visit this place throughout the year. It’s one of the best wedding churches in Barcelona!
El Monasterio de Santa Maria de Montserrat. Photo via: Pinterest.com
Church of San Jaime
It is believed that this is the oldest church in the city, built in the XII century. According to tradition, it is believed that the holy apostle James himself founded it , since it was built on the site where he preached. The tower, built in 1722, ends in an octagonal shape. And the Remedy Chapel, built in 1585, is a fine example of Barcelona’s Renaissance style.
Church of Santa Eulalia de Vilapicina
The entrance to the church of Santa Eulalia de Vilapicina is framed by a belfry-high cypress. This is a beautiful, simple and sunny neoclassical sanctuary built in the 18th century and attached to the civic center of Can Baste.
Like many other churches in the city, it was looted and destroyed during the Civil War, and worship was only restored in the late 1960s. In the early 2000s, local residents again raised funds to restore this church.
La Farinera Sant Lluis
Castrense Parish Church
Neoclassical church which was built in in 1717-1728 in the French style . Even though it is located in the Citadel Park, this church is not very famous. This place is dedicated to the Immaculate Conception, the patron saint of the infantry, inside the church is also the tomb of Claudio Traggia, captain of the Spanish royal infantry guard.
Santa Madrona Chapel
This small stone chapel built in 1754 is located next to the Albéniz Palace, in the park of Joan Maragal in Montjuïc . It is dedicated to Santa Madrone, who was one of the patron saints of the city – along with the Virgin of La Merced and Saint Eulalia – and who protected sailors and brought rain.
La Capilla de Santa Madrona. Photo via: Barcelona.cat
Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar
The impressive Gothic Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar is one of the city’s most emblematic churches and has become the setting for several literary works . It is believed that it was built on the site of the ancient Roman amphitheater . The massive appearance of the main facade creates a contrast with the austere interior and its horizontal lines, which makes this place one of the best wedding churches in Barcelona.
La Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar. Photo via: bcncatfilmcommission.com
Santa Agata Chapel
This Catalan Gothic building dates from 1302. The chapel is located on Plaça del Rei, one of the characteristic quarters of Barcelona. The church consists of one rectangular nave. The polygonal apse of the chapel is decorated with ribbed vaults, and behind it is the sacristy. You can also see stained glass windows through which a lot of light penetrates and enters all interior spaces.
The interior of the chapel is lined with wood.
La Capilla Santa Ágata. Photo via: Catalunya.com
Church of San Lázaro
The Romanesque chapel was built in the 12th century and was part of the Hospital de los Enfermos dedicated to the treatment of lepers. At the beginning of the 20th century it was consecrated and was used as a tobacco shop until this place was again restored to the status of a church . From the street Carrer de Sant Llàtzer you can see the apse located between the two walls.
Olympic Village Parish Church
Contemporary architecture is rarely associated with religious architecture, and given how rigid the doctrine can be, the freedom found in many examples of contemporary churches is peculiar. This is exactly what can be said about the Abraham Ecumenical Center, which is located on the outskirts of the Olympic Village, where the Poblenou district begins.
The current parish church of the Olympic Village was built for the 1992 Olympic Games and served as a center of religious services for the delegates and athletes participating in the competition, where Catholics, Protestants, Buddhists, Islamists and Jews were represented. The architects of this center clearly drew inspiration from the nautical theme of , as evidenced by its shape of a fish with a tail.
La Parroquia de la Villa Olímpica. Photo via: www.flickr.com
Convent of Santa Anna
This church with a Greek cross has retained the Romanesque structure , but elements such as the roof, dome, cloister and chapter house, which were built in the 15th century, are in the Gothic style. The church is part of the Monastery of Santa Ana, associated with the Order of the Holy Sepulcher since the 12th century. Concerts of classical guitar, chamber music and choral singing are regularly held here.