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Temples

Prioral de Sant Pere

4.5 · 550 reviews
A solemn and historic space for contemplation
Prioral de Sant Pere, Plaça Sant Pere, 43201 Reus, Tarragona, Spain
Interesting facts
1

Antoni Gaudí, the world-renowned architect, was baptized in this church in 1852.

2

The octagonal bell tower houses the 'Campana de les Hores', which has signaled time for the city for centuries.

3

The current building replaced an earlier Romanesque church that stood on the same site during the 13th century.

4

The church was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural, a high-level Spanish national heritage designation.

5

The Gothic nave is noted for its lack of a transept, adhering strictly to the regional Catalan Gothic stylistic preference.

Overview

The Prioral de Sant Pere is the primary religious landmark in Reus, Catalonia, known for housing the baptismal font of the architect Antoni Gaudí. Constructed in the Gothic style during the 16th century, the building features a prominent octagonal bell tower that dominates the city skyline. Its interior layout centers on a single nave with side chapels integrated between buttresses, a hallmark of Catalan Gothic architecture. The church holds the remains of Sant Pere, the city's patron saint, in a dedicated altar. Artworks within include a notable altarpiece by Bonifàs and various religious iconography. The exterior masonry displays defensive features reflecting its historical role within the medieval town walls. Extensive restorations have been conducted to preserve the original stone vaulting and structural integrity of the site. It functions as an active Catholic parish and remains a cultural focal point for traditional city festivals.

Photo spot

From the Plaça Sant Pere, capturing the full vertical span of the bell tower against the sky.

Insider tips

Walk around the exterior to view the buttresses and the transition between the ancient city wall foundations and the church structure.

Look for the commemorative plaque nearby marking the significance of Gaudí's baptism in the building.

Visit during the local Festa Major to see the church playing a central role in processions and traditional dances.

What to avoid

Avoid entering during ongoing religious services unless participating in worship.

Etiquette

Maintain a quiet demeanor; dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees out of respect for an active place of worship.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
30-45 minutes
Best time to visit
Late afternoon when the sun hits the bell tower, or during the morning hours for a quieter atmosphere.
Address
Prioral de Sant Pere, Plaça Sant Pere, 43201 Reus, Tarragona, Spain
41.154, 1.110
Get directions
Details
Architectural styleCatalan Gothic
Key featureBaptismal font of Antoni Gaudí

Frequently asked

Plan for about 30-45 minutes to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late afternoon when the sun hits the bell tower, or during the morning hours for a quieter atmosphere..

From the Plaça Sant Pere, capturing the full vertical span of the bell tower against the sky.

Close by you'll find Plaça del Mercadal, Gaudí Museum & Tourist Office, Teatre Fortuny.