History exists as evidence that Barcelona stands out through its distinctiveness among Spanish cities. As a city with deep historical roots as well as cultural value Barcelona functions as an ideal destination for fans of history. Over 2000 years of Barcelona’s rich history can be witnessed by visitors through visible historical artifacts that decorate the city. The remarkable architecture which decorates Barcelona is what most visitors find most spectacular in their city exploration.
If you enjoy examining architecture and history Barcelona features the Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy as one of its top visitor attractions. Since its establishment in 1218 the exceptional church has transformed multiple times while preserving its historical value. Working with Barcelona architect Josep Mas I Dordal the facility underwent construction from 1765 through 1775 to create its current shape. The present structure mixes the Baroque elements of its predecessor with traditional Gothic architectural characteristics.
Patron Saint of Barcelona
Each year Barcelona celebrates September 24 to honor Our Lady of Mercy as their Patron Saint during special ceremonies. The extensive yearly festivities in Barcelona attract many visitors who come from across the world despite its standing as one of Barcelona’s biggest communal events. Our Lady of Mercy received her official patronage status as Barcelona’s protector saint in 1687. Right after the people of the town prayed to her for help against a locust attack she granted them relief by making the locusts vanish.
The inaugural foundation for the church reached back to 1218 when Mary revealed to Saint Peter Nolasco a mission to create his order to rescue war captives in her name. Multiple groups including the Moors vonited Barcelona shortly before 1218 struck the city. Royalty King James I of Aragon granted the order permission to build both the institution and Church under Our Lady of Mercy.
Throughout its history the religious establishment endured multiple devastating occurrences. Traditional conflicts swept Barcelona during both Renaissance periods and subsequent historical periods causing multiple instances of temple damage and restoration. Through its most recent transformation the church received Basilica status which ended centuries of being referred to as merely a communal church. Catholic Church authorities grant “Basilica” status for buildings which permit Pope celebrations when he visits particular regions.
Basilica of La Mercè Barcelona’s Outstanding Features
The Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy announces itself through its incorporated statue of Mary situated atop the building. From several coastline miles eminent enthusiasts claim their vision extends toward this beautiful statue. A widespread Virgin Mary statue demonstrates her elevated arms while she maintains Infant Jesus within her hands.
Your attention will immediately focus on the main altar when entering the church. The front altar traces Renaissance period specifications for comparison. From a distance you will notice its enormity before entering to experience the outstanding paintings on display surrounding the altar. The church displays large beautiful stained glass windows which present different scenes about Our Lady of Mercy.
Holy Saint Maria de Casello possesses remains located within the church’s structures. The original Our Lady of Mercy Church in Barcelona served as both the birthplace of Saint Marie who received baptism in 1230. After establishing her own nuns order Saint Maria served as a nun in Barcelona. A great number of people believe Saint Maria cooperated directly with prisoners who were not following the Christian faith. She dedicated her life to helping those who sailed to Barcelona while continuing her ministry as they reached the city ports. Following her lifetime Saint Maria de Casello gained status as the Patron Saint of ship navigators.
Basilica of La Mercè Barcelona invites visitors through its doors.
The church underwent its last round of renovations which ended in 1990. The church restoration engineers successfully returned most of the building to its condition from 1775. Certain artworks maintained an older origin than most pieces in the church. All gilded walls with painted ceilings along with statues throughout the space received restoration to preserve their original beauty.
Visitors can see numerous unique original Gothic artifacts within the Diocese Museum together with other associated museums across Barcelona. Architectural drawings for the basilica’s original design were discovered among ancient documents and can be found in public display. People find the church simultaneously stunning in its past beauty while being incredibly significant for future generations.
Visitors who come to Barcelona usually put religious sites and artwork in the bottom tier of their sightseeing destinations.The Basilica of La Mercè Barcelona boasts a unique structure which we advise you to observe in person.visit in Spain. Rich in history and culture, Barcelona is the perfect place to visit if you love history. Barcelona history spans over 2000 years and evidence of this history is everywhere to be found. For many people visiting Barcelona, however, it is the distinguished architecture found throughout the city that is truly wonderful to explore.
One of the top things to do in Barcelona if you love architecture and history is to visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy. This amazing church has historical significance dating back to 1218 and has continually evolved and changed since that date. Its latest structure was built between 1765 and 1775 and was designed by the famous Barcelona architect Josep Mas I Dordal. The newest structure still retains the Baroque style of the previous church but also retains some of its Gothic features.
Patron Saint of Barcelona
Our Lady of Mercy is the Patron Saint of Barcelona, and her feast day is celebrated every September 24 without fail. It is one of the largest celebrations in Barcelona, and visitors come from around the world to partake in the festivities. Our Lady of Mercy was dedicated as the Patron Saint of Barcelona in 1687. The town prayed for her intercession during a locust invasion that soon stopped after their prayers.
However, the church itself dates back to 1218 when the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Peter Nolasco and asked that he establish an order in her name to aid the captives of war. Barcelona at that time was under siege from many different fractions, including the Moors. King James I of Aragon granted the authority to start the order and build the Church and Our Lady of Mercy was officially established.
Over time, the church succumbed to many different tragedies. Wars were very common in Barcelona during the Renaissance and in later times, and the church was damaged and rebuilt on several occasions. It is in its latest incarnation that the church was finally changed from a church to a Basilica. A Basilica is a church that is designated as a church that the Pope can hold mass in while visiting an area.
Basilica of La Mercè Barcelona’s Outstanding Features
The first noticeable sign of the Basilica of Our Lady of Mercy is the statue of Mary on the top of the church. This magnificent statue can be seen for miles around, and many people claim they can see it from the coastline. This famous statue of the Virgin Mary shows her with outstretched hands and holding the Infant Jesus.
When you walk into the church your eyes will be drawn to the front altar. This altar is designed to be very close to the altar that was in place during the Renaissance period. It is large and breathtaking and the paintings surrounding the altar will leave you in awe. The stained glass windows depict different scenes of Our Lady of Mercy and are large and beautiful.
The church contains the remains of Saint Maria de Casello. Saint Marie was born in Barcelona and was baptized in the original Our Lady of Mercy Church in 1230. Saint Maria later established her own order of nuns and served in Barcelona. Many think she worked closely with those who were captives but were not Christians. Always by the water, she also worked to bring faith to those who came to Barcelona by ship. Saint Maria de Casello has since become the Patron Saint of ship navigators.
Visit Basilica of La Mercè Barcelona
The church completed its latest renovations in 1990. Most of the church was restored back to the original 1775 structure. There are some exceptions of artwork that are older. The gilded walls, painted ceilings, and all of the statutes have also been restored to their former beauty.
Many original Gothic pieces can be found inside the Diocese Museum and in similar museums around Barcelona. Plans for the original structure of the basilica have been found in old documents, and are also on display. The church itself is a beautiful reminder of the past as well as a magnificent architectural piece for the future.
When visiting Barcelona, religious structures and artwork may not be at the top of your places to visit. However, we encourage you to experience the Basilica of La Mercè Barcelona’s unique and beautiful structure. The magnificent structure represents a unique rare scenic achievement. You can witness the Basilica during our Free Barcelona Walking Tour or the Free Barcelona Bike Tour
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