Castell de Sant Marçal
Barcelona's best-loved castle, set in its own gardens a short drive from the city.
Castell de Sant Marçal is a historic castle in Cerdanyola del Vallès, just north of Barcelona, with origins in the 11th century and in the same family for generations. Its formal gardens, cypresses and terraces make it one of the few venues near the city that can host a large international wedding with ease.
I've photographed several weddings there, and it's a venue I always look forward to returning to. Here's what you need to know, from a photographer's point of view.
Why couples choose Castell de Sant Marçal
A real castle near the city. You get the romance of a historic castle without a long transfer for guests staying in Barcelona.
Gardens for every part of the day. The grounds give you space for an outdoor ceremony, drinks and dinner, with no need to move guests between venues.
Built for large weddings. It is a popular choice for bigger international weddings and multi-day celebrations that need space and polished logistics.
Light, timing and the best spots
The castle's stone and the dark green of the cypresses make a timeless backdrop, and the gardens catch beautiful evening light.
- Ceremony: start about two hours before sunset, for soft light on the vows and golden hour for portraits afterwards.
- Family photographs: the castle walls and arches, with twenty minutes set aside straight after the ceremony.
- Portraits: the chapel, the balustrades and the cypress walks at golden hour.
- Weather: the castle's interiors work well if the weather turns. Talk the plan through with your planner early.
Morgan and Rob
Glamour at Barcelona's best-known castle: a ceremony beneath a white floral arch in front of the castle, a long white dinner under the trees, and a night that went on until late. Flowers by Best Day Ever, catering by Arts Catering.
View the wedding →
Kiran and Samir
New York meets London over two days: a garden evening in the city, then a baraat up the castle drive and a ceremony under the mandap on the terrace at Sant Marçal.
View the wedding →Castell de Sant Marçal FAQ
Where is Castell de Sant Marçal?
In Cerdanyola del Vallès, just north of Barcelona. Depending on traffic, it's usually 20 to 30 minutes from the city centre.
How many guests can Castell de Sant Marçal host?
It is one of the few castle venues near Barcelona suited to very large weddings, with gardens and indoor spaces for several hundred guests. Confirm the exact capacity for your layout with the venue or your planner.
Is Castell de Sant Marçal good for wedding photos?
Yes. The stone castle, the chapel, the arches and the gardens give a lot of variety in one place, and the evening light in the gardens is beautiful for portraits.
Have you photographed weddings at Castell de Sant Marçal before?
Yes, several times, including Morgan and Rob's wedding and Kiran and Samir's two-day Indian wedding. I know the best spots and timings, which makes the day more relaxed for you.
Do you shoot film?
Yes, at every wedding and at no extra cost. I carry 35mm and medium format cameras loaded with Kodak Portra alongside digital, and the film photographs are delivered with the rest of your gallery.
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Let's talkGetting married at Castell de Sant Marçal? Send me your date and let's talk about your plans.
