The open courtyard in front of the basilica immediately sets an impressive tone, with marbled floors and art nouveau–style frescoes visible between elegant archways. The basilica's brick facade features carvings of Christ and the 12 Apostles, dating to the early 20th century. Beyond its heavy doors, the interior glitters with white marble and gold, a blend of Renaissance and Catalan styles.
The stairs to the narrow Cambril de la Mare de Déu, housing La Moreneta, are to the right of the main basilica entrance; arrive early to avoid queues. The room across the courtyard from the basilica entrance is filled with offbeat ex-voto gifts and thank-you messages to the Virgin from people crediting her for all manner of happy events.
