Placa de Sant Josep Oriol (St. Joseph Oriol Square), Barcelona

Saint Joseph Oriol's Square in Barcelona is named after Josep Oriol, a 17th-century priest renowned for his dedication to treating the impoverished sick in the nearby Basilica of Santa Maria del Pi. The square occupies what was once a parish graveyard. Over time, concerns over health issues led to the paving of the cemetery to mitigate the risk of infection.

While the statue of Sant Josep Oriol adorns one of the doorways overlooking the square, it may require some effort to locate. Other key attractions in the area include a bronze sculpture of Angel Guimerà, an esteemed figure in Catalan literature. Positioned near the church, Guimerà's statue is often surrounded by local painters displaying their art during weekends, creating a scene reminiscent of Paris's Montmartre. The Fivaller Palace, another significant structure, houses the Catalan Agricultural Institute of Saint Isidro. Originally built in the late 16th century and renovated in the 18th century, it stands as a historical landmark at Nº4.

Also noteworthy is a large plaque on the church's wall commemorating the miraculous survival from a fall by the builder José Mestres, who fell from the roof, while working on it, without sustaining serious injuries.

The northern wall of the same church features the "Square of the Unknown Soldier" inscription. Painted during the Civil War in 1939, it pays anonymous tribute to those who resisted Franco's forces. The inscription was painted over during Franco's regime but was restored to its original state in 2009.

Additionally, Bar del Pi, one of the city's most iconic watering holes, occupies the 18th-century building at Nº1, offering a historical and emblematic spot for refreshment. Meanwhile, the Placeta del Pi cafe, tucked in behind the church, with its outdoor tables, is a convenient spot for coffee or tapas.

The square often serves as a venue for markets, selling natural products or artworks, as well as impromptu concerts by street musicians.

Tip:
Nearby, Carrer de la Palla is a charming street adorned with a variety of shops offering antiques, clothing, and books.