Gothic minimalism
Santa Maria del Mar
Who could imagine that Gothic could find a minimal expression? Ramón Despuig and Berenguer de Montagut constructed this spectacular basilica, known as Santa Maria del Mar, with some help from local dockworkers. It was them who carried the necessary building material for the completion of this veritable gem that exemplifies the spirit of the so-called Mediterranean Gothic style. This architectural style is characterized by large open spaces and an overall sense of lightness. The decoration is limited to the minimum to allow the visitor to contemplate undistracted the building that impresses the viewer with its clear and light volumes. The basilica features three naves without a transept and, interestingly, they’re all almost equally high. As a result, the space looks almost uniform, featuring light vaults, supported by slender polygonal pillars. All visual elements work together in a way that feels refreshingly modern despite the medieval idiom of the structure.
As seen on
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