Pl. Santa Maria,
Jaume I

Pure Catalan Gothic in a rare example of unity of style. This beautiful church (once close by the sea) was completed quickly in the 14th century, thus avoiding any conflicts of taste.

It's no wonder that this mighty church is said to be the city's favourite 'other cathedral'. The stunning interior opens into a cavernous space topped by an impossibly wide vaulted ceiling -- the widest of its kind anywhere. An absolute tribute to the skills of the Catalan stone mason.

All this space is amplified by the tragic fact that during the Spanish Civil War the Anarchists set fire to the interior, in effect clearing out all the clutter of centuries of worship. That left us with what we can enjoy today, a beautifully calm space within an awe inspiring structure.

Make a visit it in the morning, when fresh sunlight pours in through the high glass windows.

contributor: Nigel Hayler