Cathedral · Tarragona, Catalonia
Tarragona Cathedral
Cathedral of Saint Tecla, at the highest point of the Part Alta, built from the 12th century on the site of an old Roman temple. It blends Romanesque and Gothic styles and has a large cloister, with the Diocesan Museum beside it.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Tarragona Cathedral
Tarragona’s cathedral, dedicated to Saint Mary and Saint Tecla, the city’s patron, began construction in the 12th century on the hilltop where the Roman place of worship once stood. The works spanned the transition from Romanesque to Gothic, and both styles coexist in the building.
The main façade opens onto the stairway of Plaça de la Seu, with a Gothic portal and a large rose window above it. Inside, the alabaster altarpiece of the main altar, dedicated to Saint Tecla, stands out.
The cloister is one of the largest in Catalonia, with carved capitals and a garden at its center. Around it are the rooms of the Diocesan Museum, holding religious artworks. In some parts of the cloister remains of the Roman enclosure that once existed there appear.
The admission ticket includes the cathedral, the cloister and the museum; during masses movement is restricted. Opening hours change throughout the year.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 hour, including the cloister and the museum.
Best time
Outside mass times, when tourist visits are allowed. Check opening hours before you go.
How to get there
At the top of the Part Alta, walking up Carrer Major from Plaça de la Font or from the Pretorium.
Tip
Climb the stairway of Plaça de la Seu to see the façade head-on before entering through the visitor entrance.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Tarragona Cathedral
When was the Tarragona cathedral built?
Construction began in the 12th century and progressed during the transition between Romanesque and Gothic styles.
Does the cathedral visit include the cloister?
Yes. the visitor ticket includes the church, the cloister and the Diocesan Museum.
Who is the patron saint of Tarragona?
Saint Tecla, to whom the cathedral is also dedicated. The city’s festival in her honor takes place in September.
