Església Major

In the heart of Santa Coloma de Gramenet, a charming town near Barcelona, stands the Església Major, a neogothic marvel that has been capturing the hearts of locals and visitors alike since its completion in the early 20th century. This Catholic parish church, dedicated to Santa Coloma de Sens, is not just a place of worship but a testament to the town's rich history and architectural heritage.

The Historical Significance

Construction of the Església Major began in 1912 and was completed in 1915. The project was initially spearheaded by the renowned architect Francesc Berenguer i Mestres, a close collaborator of the legendary Antoni Gaudí. Following Berenguer's designs, the church was brought to life by Miquel Pascual Tintorer, another notable architect. The church was built on the outskirts of what was then a small village with just over 2,000 inhabitants, thanks to the efforts and legacy of Mn. Jaume Gordi i Vallès, the first rector of the new temple.

The Església Major replaced an older baroque church, which itself had been built over a Romanesque church from the 12th century. This older church was demolished in 1966, making way for the construction of the church of Sant Josep Oriol. The new church was inaugurated on September 5, 1915, coinciding with the town's Festa Major, or main festival. Despite initial skepticism about its size and location, the exponential growth of Santa Coloma throughout the 20th century soon integrated the church into the urban fabric of the town.

Architectural Grandeur

The Església Major is a striking example of neogothic architecture, one of the last of its kind to be built in Catalonia. The church's design draws inspiration from gothic elements, evident in its pointed arches, large stained glass windows, and the majestic bell tower. However, it also incorporates modernist influences, particularly in the decorative details such as the capitals of the portal and the wrought iron cross that crowns the spire.

The church features a single nave with a Latin cross plan, flanked by side chapels and ending in a heptagonal apse. The main façade is a stunning display of verticality, with a portal adorned with archivolts, a large glazed window, and the iconic octagonal bell tower. This tower, with its conical spire and merlons, is the most distinctive element of the church, offering a commanding presence in the town's skyline.

The Interior Splendor

Stepping inside the Església Major, visitors are greeted by an awe-inspiring interior that reflects the church's historical and artistic significance. The nave, measuring 40 meters in length, 10.80 meters in width, and 19.60 meters in height, is supported by ogival arches that create a sense of grandeur and spaciousness. The side chapels and the heptagonal apse add to the intricacy of the interior layout.

The presbytery, elevated by a step, is the focal point of the interior. Originally, it was adorned with a magnificent altarpiece featuring images of various saints, with the central niche dedicated to Santa Coloma. Unfortunately, the altarpiece was lost in the fire that ravaged the church during the Spanish Civil War in 1936. However, the current presbytery, repainted in 1970, still holds a sense of reverence and solemnity, with a ceramic backdrop and an iron cross added in 1990.

The Resilient Bell Tower

The bell tower of the Església Major is not just an architectural highlight but also a symbol of resilience. During the Spanish Civil War, the church was looted and set on fire, and the original bells, named Coloma and Maria, were lost. In the aftermath of the war, a provisional bell from a local textile factory was used until new bells were acquired in 1943 and 1958, thanks to the generosity of the local community. The most recent addition, a bell named Maria2, was installed in 1999, restoring the harmonious chimes that mark the church's presence in the town.

The Surrounding Grounds

The Església Major is not just confined to its walls; it extends its charm to the surrounding grounds. The perimeter is enclosed by a stone wall with merlons, adding to the neogothic aesthetic. The church is complemented by a garden and the adjacent rectory, a three-story building constructed simultaneously with the church. These elements create a serene and contemplative environment, inviting visitors to explore and reflect.

A Living Monument

Today, the Església Major stands as a living monument, a beacon of faith, history, and community spirit. It continues to serve the spiritual needs of the local population while also attracting visitors who are drawn to its architectural beauty and historical significance. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply a curious traveler, the Església Major in Santa Coloma de Gramenet offers a captivating glimpse into the past and a serene space for contemplation in the present.