Sant Genís Cemetery is the only parish graveyard in Barcelona. Located in the Sant Genís dels Agudells church, it is a place of peace and tranquility, where time stands still. With its stunning views of the mountain, it is the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some silence.
History of Sant Genís Cemetery
Burials are believed to have been held around the Sant Genís dels Agudells church since ancient times, as was the custom at old shrines. The first written evidence of the existence of the cemetery appears in a document from 1060. In the 14th century, the Vicar General of the Diocese granted a licence to the friar-hermit Ponç Astars, allowing him to put a moveable altar in the oratorio he had built, to celebrate Mass in, and to build a cemetery.
Parish cemeteries were banned in 1775 for health reasons. However, isolated or rural graveyards, such as that of Sant Genís, were spared the ban. The church of Sant Genís dels Agudells is of Romanesque origin, with vestiges of earlier times, including a fish, the symbol of the early Christians, engraved into the right-hand-side of the main door. It was extensively renovated in the 17th century. The parish has a sanctuary formed by the church, the cemetery and an area of thirty square feet granted by the bishop which enjoys ecclesiastic protection and immunity.
What to See at Sant Genís Cemetery
Sant Genís Cemetery is an interesting place to visit, with many interesting features. The cemetery is divided into two sections: the old section, with graves dating back to the 18th century, and the new section, which was built in the 19th century. The cemetery is full of interesting monuments, sculptures and tombs, including the tomb of the famous Catalan poet, Jacint Verdaguer.
The cemetery also has a chapel, built in the 19th century, which is dedicated to the Virgin of Montserrat. Inside the chapel is a sculpture of the Virgin and Child, as well as a painting of the Virgin. The chapel is a popular place for visitors to come to pray and light candles.
How to Visit Sant Genís Cemetery
Sant Genís Cemetery is open to the public from 8am to 8pm every day. Visitors can access the cemetery for free. For those who wish to explore the cemetery in more depth, guided tours are available. The guided tours are approximately one hour long and are led by knowledgeable guides who will tell you more about the history and features of the cemetery.
Sant Genís Cemetery is a fascinating place to visit and learn more about the history of Barcelona. It is a peaceful and tranquil place, where visitors can take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some silence.