Catedral de Santa Maria de la Seu Vella

Situated at the top of Lleida Hill, Seu Vella is the former cathedral church of the city of Lleida. Constructed in the 13th Century, the church is an exemplar of Catalan architecture, designed by the famed Pere de Coma. In the 18th Century, the cathedral was transformed into barracks at the behest of Philip V, spurring the need for a new cathedral, Seu Nova, that was soon constructed at the foot of the hill. Built in a transitional style, with elements of both the Romanesque and Gothic aesthetics, the historic edifice od Seu Vella is singular in its beauty and leaves none unaffected. Its portals, capitals and cornices are lavishly carved and shaped into intricate patterns, elegant forms and vivid facsimiles of religious symbols, while its chapels tell the tale of the wealthy patrons who lavished their attention on the church. The cloister, in particular, is of much interest; considered to be one of Europe's largest, it is also a rare example of one that overlooks the city. Its 17 windows bear detailed tracery and exquisite carvings, each unique and utterly unmatched in artistry. Other treasures ensconced within are murals, paintings, sculptures and more. The Seu Vella is an inspiring structure that has lasted through centuries of war and strife, still standing proud upon its perch overlooking the city.