Secret churches in Barcelona that will surprise you - Part II
Culture 07/05/2025
Barcelona is world-renowned for the majestic Sagrada Familia, but beyond this iconic monument, the city is home to a wealth of lesser-known churches that offer a unique combination of history, architecture, and serenity. These hidden gems are perfect for those looking to explore the city from a more intimate and authentic perspective.
Sant Pau del Camp (El Raval)
Considered the oldest church in Barcelona, Sant Pau del Camp is a gem of Catalan Romanesque architecture. Built in the 9th century and rebuilt in the 12th, it stands out for its sober façade and charming cloister with capitals sculpted with biblical and plant motifs. Located in the heart of the Raval district, it offers a haven of peace amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
Sant Pau Street, 101
Church of Sant Agustí (El Raval)
Built in the 18th century, this Baroque church stands out for its sober façade and spacious interior. Located near the MACBA (Spanish National Museum of Contemporary Art), it's an ideal place to combine contemporary art and historical heritage in a single visit.
Plaça de Sant Agustí, 2
Chapel of Santa Madrona (Montjuïc)
Located in Montjuïc Park, this small 18th-century chapel is dedicated to Saint Madrona, co-patron saint of Barcelona. It only opens to the public once a year, during the saint's feast day, offering a unique experience for those seeking the unusual.
Passeig de Montjuïc, 118
Church of Sant Andreu del Palomar (Sant Andreu)
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A monumental church in the heart of the old town of Sant Andreu. Built in the neo-Gothic style at the end of the 19th century, its façade is reminiscent of a cathedral, while its interior is serene and bright.
Plaça d'Orfila, 1
Church of the Sagrat Cor del Tibidabo (Tibidabo)
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Located at the top of Tibidabo, this neo-Gothic church with its sculpture of the Sacred Heart is one of Barcelona's most photogenic. Few visitors stop to admire its interior or climb to the viewing platform, which offers unique panoramic views.
Tibidabo Summit
Church of Sant Pere de les Puel·les (Sant Pere)
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Of monastic origin, this 10th-century church retains part of its original Romanesque structure. Surrounded by quiet streets, its atmosphere invites you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Carrer de Lluís el Piadós, 1
Church of Sant Ramon de Penyafort (Eixample)
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A hidden gem in the Eixample district, this neo-Gothic church is little known to tourists. Its verticality, stained-glass windows, and the sunset light inside create a magical atmosphere.
285 Provincial Council Street
Tips for your visit
Hours: Some churches have limited access or require advance reservations.
Appropriate attire: These are places of worship, so it is recommended to dress respectfully.
Avoid rush hour: Visit in the morning to enjoy the quiet.
Ideal with children: Many of them are in squares or pedestrian areas.
Don't miss the first part of these wonderful recommendations, which will help you discover Barcelona beyond the tourist guides.
Sant Pau del Camp (El Raval)
Considered the oldest church in Barcelona, Sant Pau del Camp is a gem of Catalan Romanesque architecture. Built in the 9th century and rebuilt in the 12th, it stands out for its sober façade and charming cloister with capitals sculpted with biblical and plant motifs. Located in the heart of the Raval district, it offers a haven of peace amidst the hustle and bustle of the city.
Sant Pau Street, 101
Church of Sant Agustí (El Raval)
Built in the 18th century, this Baroque church stands out for its sober façade and spacious interior. Located near the MACBA (Spanish National Museum of Contemporary Art), it's an ideal place to combine contemporary art and historical heritage in a single visit.
Plaça de Sant Agustí, 2
Chapel of Santa Madrona (Montjuïc)
Located in Montjuïc Park, this small 18th-century chapel is dedicated to Saint Madrona, co-patron saint of Barcelona. It only opens to the public once a year, during the saint's feast day, offering a unique experience for those seeking the unusual.
Passeig de Montjuïc, 118
Church of Sant Andreu del Palomar (Sant Andreu)
A monumental church in the heart of the old town of Sant Andreu. Built in the neo-Gothic style at the end of the 19th century, its façade is reminiscent of a cathedral, while its interior is serene and bright.
Plaça d'Orfila, 1
Church of the Sagrat Cor del Tibidabo (Tibidabo)
Located at the top of Tibidabo, this neo-Gothic church with its sculpture of the Sacred Heart is one of Barcelona's most photogenic. Few visitors stop to admire its interior or climb to the viewing platform, which offers unique panoramic views.
Tibidabo Summit
Church of Sant Pere de les Puel·les (Sant Pere)
Of monastic origin, this 10th-century church retains part of its original Romanesque structure. Surrounded by quiet streets, its atmosphere invites you to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city center.
Carrer de Lluís el Piadós, 1
Church of Sant Ramon de Penyafort (Eixample)
A hidden gem in the Eixample district, this neo-Gothic church is little known to tourists. Its verticality, stained-glass windows, and the sunset light inside create a magical atmosphere.
285 Provincial Council Street
Tips for your visit
Hours: Some churches have limited access or require advance reservations.
Appropriate attire: These are places of worship, so it is recommended to dress respectfully.
Avoid rush hour: Visit in the morning to enjoy the quiet.
Ideal with children: Many of them are in squares or pedestrian areas.
Don't miss the first part of these wonderful recommendations, which will help you discover Barcelona beyond the tourist guides.
