The Gargoyles

The gargoyles of Barcelona cathedral

The Barcelona audio-guided tour draws your gaze towards the gargoyles of the cathedral. Bewitching, it is full of sculptures laden with mystery, and one could spend hours scrutinising its façades in search of hidden messages.

Gutters of strong symbolism

Gargoyles were born in the thirteenth century with Gothic architecture. They are gutters serving to evacuate water from the roofs of churches, away from the walls. Their name derives from Old French and the word gargouillis, which evokes the sound of water flowing through their throats. But beyond their practical function, they carry a strong symbolism: their terrifying appearance was meant to ward off evil and drive away malevolent spirits.

What there is to see

On the roofs and cornices of the cathedral, the gargoyles take astonishing forms: real or fantastic animals, hybrid creatures and mysterious figures. Some, more unexpected, surprise by their originality. Looking up to search for them is a game of observation that reveals all the richness of the Gothic decor and the share of mystery of the building.

Practical information

The gargoyles adorn the roofs and façades of Barcelona cathedral, in the heart of the Gothic quarter. They can be contemplated freely from the outside, at all hours and on the level, by looking up. A pair of binoculars can help to appreciate the details.

What are gargoyles for?

They are gutters that evacuate water from the roofs; their frightening appearance was also meant to ward off evil and malevolent spirits.

Since when have gargoyles existed?

They appeared in the thirteenth century with Gothic architecture, of which Barcelona cathedral offers many examples.