Church of Sant Francesc de Sales

The Church of Saint Francis de Sales

The Barcelona audio-guided tour points out to you, along the pleasant Passeig de Sant Joan, the Church of Saint Francis de Sales, one of the finest examples of neo-Gothic architecture in the city. A place of worship with a distinctive bell tower, it is discovered with respect.

A neo-Gothic church

The church was built between 1878 and 1885 for the convent of the Order of the Visitation, before being transformed, after the abandonment of the convent, into a religious school and then a parish church. It is the major work of the Catalan architect Joan Martorell i Montells, who followed the Gothic fashion, influenced by Viollet-le-Duc. Its bell tower, placed on the facade, gives it a singular silhouette.

What there is to see

The Church of Saint Francis de Sales, through its careful neo-Gothic style, helps to understand the architectural heritage that Gaudi drew on before surpassing it. Martorell was indeed one of his masters. The facade, the bell tower and the interior are discovered in respect of the place of worship and the prayer that takes place there.

Practical information

The Church of Saint Francis de Sales is along the Passeig de Sant Joan, in the Eixample district. The facade can be seen freely from the promenade; access to the interior depends on services and hours, which may vary. An active place of worship, it requires proper dress and silence.

How old is the Church of Saint Francis de Sales ?

It was built between 1878 and 1885 for the convent of the Visitation, by the architect Joan Martorell i Montells.

What is the link with Gaudi ?

Its architect, Joan Martorell, was one of Gaudi's masters; the church sheds light on the neo-Gothic heritage he drew on.