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La Seu d'Urgell Cathedral: A Romanesque Masterpiece

Discover Catalonia's only Romanesque cathedral in La Seu d'Urgell, a historic city nestled in the Pyrenees near Andorra.

La Seu d'Urgell Cathedral, or the Cathedral of Santa Maria, is a stunning example of Catalan Romanesque architecture. Dating back to the 12th century, it is the only Romanesque cathedral remaining in Catalonia, featuring unique Italianate influences and a rich history intertwined with the region and Andorra.

A brief summary to La Seu d'Urgell

  • La Seu d'Urgell, Lleida, ES

Local tips

  • Visit the Diocesan Museum to see a remarkable collection of medieval religious art and learn about the cathedral's history.
  • Explore the cathedral's cloister, paying close attention to the unique carvings on the capitals.
  • Attend the weekly market on Tuesday or Saturday to experience local culture and purchase regional products.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of La Seu d'Urgell, the cathedral is easily accessible on foot. Navigate towards Plaça del Deganat, where the cathedral is located. The walk is generally short and straightforward, with the cathedral's tower visible from many points in the old town.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus at the La Seu d'Urgell bus station, the cathedral is approximately a 3-minute walk away. Exit the station and head towards the city center. Follow the signs to Plaça del Deganat. Bus tickets within the city are typically inexpensive, costing around €1-2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available throughout La Seu d'Urgell. A short taxi ride from the outskirts of town to the cathedral should cost approximately €5-€10, depending on the distance and time of day. Taxi fares generally start around €3, with an additional charge per kilometer.

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Discover more about La Seu d'Urgell

La Seu d'Urgell Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria, stands as a magnificent testament to Romanesque architecture in Catalonia. Consecrated to the Virgin Mary, the cathedral's origins trace back to the early 12th century, with construction commencing in 1116 under the guidance of master mason Ramon Llambard. As the only remaining Romanesque cathedral in Catalonia, La Seu d'Urgell Cathedral holds immense historical and artistic significance. Its design incorporates unique Italianate-style features, setting it apart from other Catalan Romanesque structures. The cathedral has a basilica plan with three naves, a large transept, and five apses. The exterior showcases Lombard elements, while the interior houses a 13th-century polychrome wood carving of the Virgin of Urgell, the city's patron saint. Over the centuries, the cathedral has undergone several restorations, most notably in the 20th century. These efforts have aimed to preserve its original Romanesque character, stripping away Baroque additions and reinforcing its structural integrity. Today, visitors can explore the cathedral's grand cloister, adorned with intricately carved capitals, and the Diocesan Museum, which displays a remarkable collection of medieval art, including a copy of the Beatus of Urgell.

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