Girona Cathedral
Visiting Girona Cathedral should be at the top of your list of places to see.
Although everyone knows it as the Girona Cathedral, its full name is the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona.
This religious building has a series of features that have earned it the designation of Asset of Cultural Interest within Spain’s historical heritage.
And one of the most fascinating facts about this building is that it has the widest Gothic nave in the world, something you’ll truly appreciate once you step inside.
Girona Cathedral attracts thousands of tourists each year, and for good reason.
Here’s more about this remarkable cathedral.
History of Girona Cathedral
Girona Cathedral has a long history, which has given it great cultural heritage value.
The Romanesque-style cathedral began construction in the 9th century. But before that, in the 8th century, the site was home to the sanctuary of Saint Felix, which, during Islamic rule, was converted into the Great Mosque.
Later, Charlemagne reclaimed the territory of Girona, which is why the cathedral we know today includes many elements and legends referring to this famous emperor.
This is how the current Girona Cathedral began to rise on the site of the old mosque.
What to see inside Girona Cathedral
Let’s start this virtual visit with the interior of Girona Cathedral.
What shouldn’t you miss?
Cloister of Girona Cathedral
Construction began in the 11th century and was completed in the 12th. The original cloister was built in the Romanesque style, and underwent numerous transformations in the following years.
The works of art housed in this cloister are a delight for history and art lovers.
The Creation Tapestry of Girona
This embroidered 11th-century Creation Tapestry is one of the most important treasures of Girona Cathedral. It is a piece of Romanesque textile art, highly valued for being one of the best-preserved examples today.
Its name comes from the theme depicted: the creation of the world and humankind, and humanity’s first steps in Paradise.
Charlemagne’s keystone
This is another of the most important elements housed inside Girona Cathedral.
Here we find a keystone that is believed to depict Emperor Charlemagne, instead of the usual figures (Jesus Christ, God, or the Virgin Mary). This theory is based not only on the figure’s appearance, but also on the background featuring fleurs-de-lis, the heraldic symbol of kings and emperors.
Without a doubt, a very intriguing detail.
Want to know more about Girona Cathedral?
This has only given you a fleeting glimpse of everything Girona Cathedral holds.
The best way to experience it is to come and visit in person — and, if possible, with a guide who can tell you all the history and curiosities behind it (and as you’ve seen, there are plenty).
At Girona Tour, we offer sightseeing excursions — such as the Girona Monumental Tour — which includes Girona Cathedral among the monuments to visit.
This tour not only shows you the cathedral, but also takes you to other landmarks in Girona, such as the Arab Baths and the Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants.
The price includes a local guide as well as tickets to all these monuments.
Interested?
We look forward to seeing you!