The Basilica of Santa Maria presents visitors with an underground journey. Every Saturday, a small group descends the steps to the neo-Gothic crypt, built in 1916 to house the remains of the parish priests. The space surprises for the exposed brick vaults and, above all, for the modernist sculpture by Josep Llimona dedicated to the Blessed Sacrament, considered one of the most emotional religious pieces of the master.
The guided tour contextualizes the expansion of the temple at the beginning of the 20th century and reviews the symbolism of the figures of Llimona, as well as their relationship with Vilafranca. The guide also takes the opportunity to explain details of the bell tower and other heritage elements that remain at the foot of the nave and that often go unnoticed.
The activity, of about forty minutes, is ideal to complete a walk through the historic center and discover corners that usually remain closed.