Romanesque and gothic designs blend to form a glorious hybrid in a medieval church known for its gorgeous cloister and secluded location.
Visit the 15th-century Church of Santa Anna to see one of the city’s most historic and intriguing religious buildings. The former monastery in the heart of Barcelona is hidden between two blocks of buildings on the southern side of the majestic Plaça de Catalunya. Consider the range of architectural styles making up the building, which took about three centuries to construct.
Stroll along a narrow cobbled lane near the main plaza to find the church. Admire the romanesque characteristics in the church’s front face and overall shape. The building has a gabled roof and tiered arches surrounding a large, rectangular portal in the centre of the façade.
Enter the church and appreciate the chapter house, where monastery monks made decisions. Study its baptismal font and gothic octagonal dome. The cloister is particularly impressive, comprising a colonnade wrapping around a scenic courtyard. Attend one of the candle-lit concerts that regularly take place here.
Light one of the colourful candles in memory of a loved one. The church remains active today, providing the setting for baptisms, funerals and weddings. Purchase roses and other flowers from the vendors’ stalls often set up outside the church.
The former monastery was commissioned by the Holy Sepulchre Order and designed by architect Ramon Amadeu in the 12th century.
Purchase a ticket to enter the church. Take a guided tour for additional information about the structure, which opens Monday through Saturday from late morning until evening.
The Church of Santa Anna is located in the centre of Barcelona. Travel to the church on a bus to one of the surrounding stops. Or, from the Passeig de Gràcia metro station walk southeast for a few blocks to reach the church. Walk around the vicinity for other highlights such as the Font de Canaletes, the Museu Frederic Marès and the Barcelona Cathedral.
