Santa Maria del Mar Church

1. Arrival
2. Nights
3. Guests (Age 10 and Over)
4. Children (Under Age 10)

Santa Maria del Mar, or Saint Mary of the Sea, is a Catalan Gothic church located in the Ribera district of Barcelona. It was designed by Berenguer de Montagut and was built between 1329 and 1383. At that time period, it typically took over a century to finish a church so grandiose, which usually caused the style of architecture to change throughout the construction process. The result would be a church composed of several different styles. Santa Maria del Mar is unique because it is a breathtaking example of pure Catalan Gothic architecture. Santa Maria del Mar was built in just 55 years, so the Catalan Gothic architecture is consistent throughout.

The original church has been slightly modified since construction in the 14th century. Both earthquake and fire have destroyed parts of the church. The large rose window has been redone. Also, the second tower to match the one on the northwest side wasn’t completed until 1902. The chapel of the Blessed Sacrament was added later on in the 19th century. Overall, the perfect symmetry and proportion make it the best example of Catalan Gothic architecture in Barcelona.

Santa Maria del Mar Church is named after Mary, the patron saint of sailors. “Del Mar,” or “of the Sea” is included in the name not only because of it’s location near the coast, but because ship builders and merchants commonly worshipped there. The number eight was commonly used in measurements while building Santa Maria del Mar because 8 and its multiples were a medieval symbol for the Virgin Mary.

Santa Maria del Mar is breathtaking from within. The block exterior does not lend you to believe that it will appear so light and elegant inside, but it truly is astonishing. Entrance to Santa Maria del Mar is open Monday through Saturday from 9am-1:30pm and 4:30-8pm and Sunday from 10am-1:30pm and 4:30-8pm. Visiting Santa Maria del Mar is a tourist must-see whilst staying in your Barcelona apartment.