The metropolitan area is full of little-known modernist gems. Such as, for example, the crypt of Colonia Güell of Santa Coloma de Cervelló, las Güell Winery del Garraf (Sitges), la Anise factory of the Monkey of Badalona, the Masia Freixa in Terrassa, and a long etcetera that demonstrate that yes, there is modernism beyond Casa Batlló, La Pedrera and the Sagrada Família.
Joining this list of modernist buildings that do not appear in the guides is the Major Church of Santa Coloma in Gramenet. A little gem to discover 20 minutes by car or half an hour by subway –it has a stop on the L9 line, Església Major, right outside its doors. It couldn’t be easier.
Bell tower of the Major Church of Santa Coloma. / Archive
The building is mainly the work of Francesc d’Assís Berenguer and Mestres –Gaudí’s collaborator for 27 years–. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, it is One of the last neo-Gothic buildings built in Catalonia –a style that Gaudí used for many buildings, such as some parts of the Sagrada Família or the Torre Bellesguard–. The neo-Gothic façade is complemented by many modernist detailswhich make it a pilgrimage point for fans of this style, such as the capitals of the portal, the wrought iron details or the finishes with black tiles and exposed brick.
And, since you are here, take advantage of the visit to the monument to discover the old town of Santa Coloma de Gramenetone of the most forgotten cities in the metropolitan area. The area of Calle Major and the area around the town hall, mostly pedestrian, guarantees a quiet walkwith traditional bars and restaurants where you can have a good meal, and with some parks where you can sit down to read or chat for a while. A perfect opportunity to get to know A city with a lot of heritage and which is not talked about enough.