Sant Pere de les Puel·les | Oldest Monastery in Barcelona

About Sant Pere de les Puel·les Church

Sant Pere de les Puel·les Church is one of the most historic churches in Barcelona, nestled in the Sant Pere neighborhood and considered a true Barcelona hidden gem. Founded in 945AD, it’s the oldest surviving Benedictine convent in Barcelona and a rare example of Catalan Romanesque architecture with Gothic influences.

Originally part of a Romanesque-Gothic Benedictine monastery, the church is free to visit and offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. Its modest exterior hides centuries of history, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Barcelona’s religious heritage and medieval architecture.

History of Sant Pere de les Puel·les

The monastery was founded by Count Sunyer and Riquilda of Toulouse beside an ancient church dedicated to San Saturnino. Consecrated in 945AD, it became Barcelona’s first convent for Benedictine nuns. By the end of the 10th century, it housed a dozen nuns, many from noble families who supported the monastery financially.

In 985AD, the convent was attacked by the Arab troops of Almanzor and later restored by Count Borrell II. A new church was consecrated in 1147, combining the monastery with the original San Sadurní chapel. Over centuries, the site evolved — surviving secularization in 1835, conversion into a prison, and two devastating fires in 1909 and 1939 during the Spanish Civil War.

Today, only fragments of the original structure remain. The cloister once had two levels: a Romanesque lower floor from the 11th century and a Gothic upper floor built around 1322. The church’s original Greek cross floor plan featured four arches and a domed octagonal bell tower, known as the Torre dels Ocells (Tower of Birds). A bell from 1752 still hangs in the tower, echoing centuries of worship.

Sant Pere De Les Puelles History

Image Gallery For Sant Pere de les Puel·les Church

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Visiting Sant Pere de les Puel·les Church

This peaceful church is open daily and free to enter. Whether you’re exploring Barcelona medieval churches, following a Barcelona heritage walking route, or seeking a quiet moment, it’s well worth spending 15–30 minutes inside. Donations are welcome to help maintain the space.

In front of the church lies a triangular-shaped square shaded by mature trees — a tranquil spot that feels worlds away from the city bustle. It’s surrounded by terrace dining restaurants where locals and visitors enjoy coffee, tapas, and meals in the open air. This plaza is a perfect place to pause and reflect after visiting one of Barcelona’s oldest monasteries.

Sant Pere de les Puel·les Opening Hours

Monday to Friday: 10:00h to 20:00h
Saturdays: 10:00h to 20:00h
Sundays & holidays: 11:00h to 18:00h

Mass Schedule

Monday to Friday: 19:00h
Saturday: 18:00h
Sunday & holidays: 12:00h (Spanish)
Confessions: available before each mass

Guided Tours

Join a guided rooftop tour for panoramic views and deeper historical insights into Barcelona’s ecclesiastical architecture.

When: Last Saturday of each month at 11:00h (September–June)
Fee: 5 euros
Capacity: 30 people max

For private group tours (10–30 people), email santpere164@arqbcn.cat.

Sant Pere De Les Puelles Homepage Sant Pere De Les Puelles Hours Sant Pere De Les Puelles Guided Tour

Accessability & What to bring

Sant Pere de les Puel·les Church is open to all and offers a peaceful, reflective space in the heart of Barcelona’s Sant Pere neighborhood. Access to the church is via four steps, but a ramp is available to assist visitors with reduced mobility.

There is no cloakroom or luggage storage on site, so we recommend bringing only a small daypack (10L or less). This helps maintain the quiet atmosphere and ensures easy movement inside the church.

If you’re joining the guided rooftop tour, consider wearing comfortable shoes and bringing a bottle of water, especially in warmer months. A camera or phone is also a great idea to capture the views from above.

Whether you’re here for quiet reflection, historical curiosity, or architectural admiration, a little preparation will help you make the most of your visit to this 10th-century monastery.

Sant Pere de les Puel·les Church Summary of Prices

Train/Bus Fare Entry Ticket Additional Information Train/Bus Fare Entry Ticket Additional Information Adult Zone 1 T-casual FREE Child € 1.25 FREE Notes Make a small donation to keep lights on.

Getting to Sant Pere de les Puel·les Church

Address: Plaza de Sant Pere 16, Barcelona, 08003

Sant Pere de les Puel·les Church is conveniently located along the El Born walking route, making it an easy and rewarding stop during your exploration of Barcelona’s historic center. The nearest metro stations are Arc de Triomf (L1) and Urquinaona (L1 & L4), both just a few minutes away. You can also connect via Renfe Rodalies regional trains.

For smooth travel across the city, use a T-Casual card or the Hola Barcelona Travel Card, which offers unlimited rides and great value for visitors.