Sant Romà

Nestled in the heart of Lloret de Mar, Spain, the Sant Romà Church (Iglesia de San Román) stands as a testament to the town's rich history and architectural evolution. This captivating church, a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, has been an integral part of the community since the early 16th century. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, Sant Romà offers an enchanting glimpse into the past.

The History of Sant Romà

The origins of Sant Romà Church date back to the mid-15th century when the need for a new parish church closer to the sea became apparent. The existing church, the Hermitage of Our Lady of Joys, was too distant for the growing population of fishermen and sailors. However, the construction of the new church faced delays due to the Remença Wars, a series of peasant revolts that plagued the region.

It wasn't until 1509 that construction began under the blessing of Bishop Guillem de Boïl. The church was built in the Catalan Gothic style, characterized by its heptagonal apse and elongated nave supported by sturdy buttresses. The vaulted ceiling was divided into four sections by transverse arches, with intricately carved keystones adorning the intersections. The church was completed in 1522, as indicated by the inscription above the main entrance, which details the cost and completion date of the construction.

Architectural Marvels

As you approach Sant Romà, you'll be struck by its unique facade, a harmonious blend of stone and colorful ceramic tiles. This decorative style, inspired by Islamic architecture, was added in the early 20th century during a major renovation led by architect Bonaventura Conill i Montobbio. Conill, a follower of Antoni Gaudí, infused the church with modernist elements, creating a stunning visual spectacle.

The church's exterior is adorned with alternating bands of unplastered stone and glazed ceramic tiles in various colors, predominantly black, green, blue, and purple. Red bricks accentuate the design, adding a touch of warmth to the structure. High above, twelve large mosaics depicting the apostles, crafted by the Bru workshops in Barcelona around 1916, gaze down upon visitors.

One of the most striking features of Sant Romà is its two modernist chapels, located on either side of the presbytery. These polygonal, domed chapels are topped with five octagonal pinnacles, richly decorated with ceramics, mosaics, and trencadís (broken tile mosaics). The intricate detailing and vibrant colors create a mesmerizing effect, drawing the eye upwards towards the sky.

The Bell Tower

The church's bell tower is a square structure crowned with a crenellated terrace and a pointed roof with four slopes. The upper part of the tower features two semicircular windows on each side, with a cornice running around the top. The tower's fortress-like appearance, complete with a drawbridge at the western entrance and lateral buttresses, adds to the church's medieval charm.

Inside Sant Romà

Step inside Sant Romà, and you'll be greeted by a serene, whitewashed interior, a stark contrast to the colorful exterior. The single nave is flanked by several side chapels, with two large chapels at the head of the church. The vaulted ceiling, supported by arches, creates an airy, spacious feel.

One of the church's most treasured features is the partially preserved altarpiece of Sant Romà, created by artists Pere Serafí Lo Grec and Jaume Fontanet in 1559. This masterpiece, housed in the northern domed chapel, consists of nine panels depicting scenes from the life of Saint Romanus, the church's patron saint. The vibrant colors and intricate details of the paintings offer a glimpse into the artistic talent of the Renaissance period.

Modernist Renovations

The early 20th-century renovations, funded by the wealth brought to Lloret de Mar through trade with the Americas, transformed Sant Romà into a modernist marvel. Bonaventura Conill i Montobbio's vision incorporated elements of Byzantine, Islamic, and Renaissance architecture, resulting in a unique and captivating structure.

The church's lateral facades were adorned with altars, mosaics, and other ornamental elements, utilizing a variety of materials, including ceramics, brick, and stone. The figures of the twelve apostles, crafted in Venetian mosaic, add a touch of grandeur to the upper part of the facades.

Inside, the modernist influence is evident in the richly decorated chapels, with their blue and pink plastered walls and intricate mosaics. The attention to detail and craftsmanship is a testament to the skill of the artisans who worked on the renovations.

A Living Monument

Today, Sant Romà Church remains a vibrant part of the Lloret de Mar community. It serves as a place of worship, a historical monument, and a cultural landmark. The church's annual celebration of Saint Romanus, held on November 8th, is a highlight of the local calendar, drawing visitors from near and far.

Whether you're exploring the church's fascinating history, marveling at its architectural beauty, or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere, a visit to Sant Romà is an unforgettable experience. This remarkable church stands as a testament to the enduring spirit and rich cultural heritage of Lloret de Mar.