The Parish Temple of Santa Maria de Portbou stands majestically as a testimony of history, faith and art merging into a unique architectural masterpiece. Built by the railway company on the station forecourt, this church has a fascinating history that began as a private chapel for the influential Planàs family.
This architectural masterpiece took shape under the supervision of Barcelona architect Joan Martorell i Montells, who oversaw construction between 1878 and 1893. Initially reserved as a place of prayer for the Planàs family and railway workers, it later opened its doors to the entire community as a parish church.
The church is more than an imposing architectural structure; It is a place of devotion and artistic beauty. A staircase, built in 1933 by Empordà architect Pelai Martínez, connects the city with the church esplanade, highlighting its monumental presence.
Inside the church, the altarpiece behind the altar captivates the eye with an image of the Virgin sculpted by renowned artist Frederic Marès. The tabernacle and the cross, witnesses of exceptional artistic skill, bear the signature of the sculptor Domènec Fita i Molat.
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