If you are looking for a place to explore some history of Barcelona, you should not miss the Santa Maria del Mar church. This magnificent basilica, located in the heart of the Ribera district. It is one of the most emblematic examples of Catalan Gothic architecture within the city of Barcelona. It was built between 1329 and 1383 by the people of the sea, the merchants and sailors who wanted to honor their patron saint, Maria.
A Temple with An Unique History
Santa Maria del Mar church has witnessed some of the most important historical events of Barcelona. During the years its architecture reflects the prosperity that the city experienced in past times. The construction of the present building was promoted by the canon Bernat Llull, who was appointed Archdean of Santa Maria in 1324. One of the distinctive features of Santa Maria del Mar was its backing by the common people, as opposed to the nobility.
The construction work started on 25 March 1329, when the foundation stone was laid by king Alfonso IV of Aragon on the façade that faces the Fossar de les Moreres. The architects in charge were Berenguer de Montagut (designer of the building) and Ramon Despuig. Also during the construction all the guilds of the Ribera quarter were involved.
The walls, the side chapels and the façades were finished by 1350. In 1379 there was a fire that damaged important parts of the works. Finally, on 3 November 1383 the last stone was laid and on 15 August 1384 the church was consecrated. The 1428 Catalonia earthquake caused several casualties and destroyed the rose window in the west end. The new rose window, in the Flamboyant style, was finished by 1459 and one year later the glass was added.
Many of its decorative richness, the images and the Baroque altar were destroyed in a fire set by anti-clerical rioters at the beginning of the Spanish Civil War in 1936. The church survived even though it was on fire for 11 days. The chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, adjacent to the apse, was added in the 19th century.
A Masterpiece of Light and Space
From the outside, Santa Maria del Mar church gives an impression of massive severity that belies the interior. It is hemmed in by the narrow streets of the Ribera, making it difficult to obtain an overall impression, except from the Fossar de les Moreres and the Plaça de Santa Maria, both of them former burial grounds. The latter is dominated by the west end of the church with its rose window.
The interior of Santa Maria del Mar is a marvel of light and space. It has a single nave with side chapels placed between the buttresses and a polygonal apse with a large ambulatory. The nave is 27 meters high and 33 meters wide, making it one of the widest Gothic naves in Europe. The harmony and simplicity of its proportions create a sense of elegance and balance. The slender octagonal columns rise up to support ribbed vaults that span almost 14 meters without intermediate supports.
The light that enters through the stained glass windows creates a mystical atmosphere that invites contemplation. The windows date from different periods, ranging from the 15th to the 20th century. Some of them depict scenes from the life of Mary, such as her birth, her presentation at the temple or her coronation as queen of heaven. Others show saints, angels or heraldic symbols.
Discover More Of The Santa Maria del Mar Church
Santa Maria del Mar is not only a church but also a place to discover. It offers various cultural activities such as concerts, exhibitions or guided tours. Once inside you can visit its crypt, its museum or its rooftop terrace. It is from the church roof top where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Barcelona. You can also admire its façade at night, when it is illuminated with different colors.
Santa Maria del Mar is a place that will captivate you with its beauty and history. It is a symbol of Barcelona’s identity and a testimony of its people’s faith and devotion. If you want to experience one of the most authentic expressions of Catalan Gothic art, you should not miss this basilica.
If you want to learn more about visiting this historic church you can visit their official website: http://santamariadelmarbarcelona.org/
