Watch Cathedral of the Sea

"Cathedral of the Sea" is a historical drama television series that premiered on Netflix in 2018. It is based on a bestselling novel of the same name by Spanish author Ildefonso Falcones. The show explores the life of Arnau Estanyol (played by Aitor Luna), a humble serf in 14th-century Barcelona, who fights for social mobility and strives to make a name for himself.

The series portrays the harsh realities of medieval Catalonia, where serfs were at the bottom of the social hierarchy and were subjected to the whims of their masters. Arnau's journey begins when his father is wrongly accused of a crime by the Royal Forester, and he is forced to flee his hometown with his family. He seeks refuge in Barcelona, where he discovers an opportunity to start afresh and make a life for himself.

As Arnau grows up, he becomes a skilled craftsman and gains the respect of his employers, the powerful Guzman family. He forms close bonds with them, especially with Joan (played by Jordi Aguilar), the youngest son of the family. Joan is a kind and just man who understands the struggles of the common people and wants to bring about change. However, the Guzmans' other sons, Bernat (played by Pablo Derqui) and Francesc (played by Ginés García Millán), are greedy and cruel, and condescending towards the lower classes.

The series depicts the power struggles between the aristocrats and the working class, the political instability of the time, and the constant danger of war and persecution. The conflict between the nobility and the Church is also a prominent theme, as the characters grapple with their faith and question the authority of the clergy.

Apart from the political and social themes, "Cathedral of the Sea" also explores the personal relationships of the characters. Arnau's love interest is Aledis (played by Nora Navas), a strong-willed woman who is shunned by society for her Jewish heritage. Their romance is a testament to the power of love in the face of discrimination and prejudice. The Guzman brothers' relationship is also complex, as they struggle with their brotherly bond and their differing worldviews.

The show's visuals are stunning, with intricate details of medieval architecture and costumes that transport the viewer to another time. The use of light and shadow creates a sense of foreboding and mystery, adding to the tension of the plot. The music is also evocative, with traditional Catalan melodies and haunting vocals that reflect the show's themes of loss and hope.

At its heart, "Cathedral of the Sea" is a story of resilience and hope in the face of adversity. Arnau and his fellow serfs fight for their rights and dignity, refusing to be silenced by the oppressive system that seeks to keep them in chains. The show is a reminder of the power of collective action and the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

Overall, "Cathedral of the Sea" is a gripping and compelling tale of medieval Catalonia that is sure to captivate historical drama fans. With its fascinating characters, intricate plot, and stunning visuals, it is a series that is not to be missed.

Cathedral of the Sea is a series that ran for 1 seasons (8 episodes) between September 1, 2018 and on Netflix