The gothic parochial cathedral of Santa Maria has the structure and dimensions of a cathedral, a status which it did not achieve despite various attempts made by the earls of Empuries to have it named as such.

It is one of the most interesting examples of Catalan religious gothic architecture.

The construction, which began in the thirteenth century and continued throughout the entire fourteenth century, was completed at the beginning of the fifteenth century when the façade, with its beautiful marble entrance, was finished. The interior, representative of the Mediterranean gothic style, contains: unique roman baptism fonts, an exceptional 15th century alabaster altar piece, two sarcophagus belonging to earls, and a gothic stained glass window, the alter piece “dels Dolors” from  the 18th century, an organ from the 19th century and many other items of interest.

The bell tower, with gothic decorations, follows the architectural design of the 13 century roman Lombard influence.

The parochial museum has on display, among other items, images, gold objects from the parochial jeweler, religious objects and diverse archeological pieces from different periods.

Photo Albert Pla, La Catedral de l'Empordà