Los avatares de la catedral de Tarragona entre 1808 y 1813

The following article explores the events that took place in the Tarragona Cathedral during the prolegomena, siege, assault, sacking and occupation of the city by Napoleonic troops (1808-1813). The cathedral became the only place of worship in the city and was also used as a watchtower, fi eld hospital and refuge from the bombardment. As a result, some of the chapels were damaged. However, the church leaders were able to save most of the liturgical silver and tapestry collection by sending it to the island of Mallorca. Some of the bloodiest and most ruthless events in the history of Tarragona took place during the assault and sacking of the cathedral and its surroundings when the invading troops attacked the defenceless civilians.