El 'Santet' | 1877/1899 (SBS/3D)

Little is known about the life of Francesc Canals. He was born in Plaça de la Lana in Barcelona; his blind father owned a carpet business. At the age of 14, he began working at the El Siglo shop on Las Ramblas, and was known for sharing his wages with the poor and helping those in need. Over time, he was credited with having premonitory dreams, such as the burning of the shop, as well as the ability to heal through the laying on of hands, predict dates of death—including his own—and that his father would regain his sight after his death, which, according to oral tradition, came to pass. He died at the age of 22, according to some sources from tuberculosis and according to others from burns suffered in a fire in which he helped several people. His niche, initially in the Old Cemetery, was moved to the new Poblenou Cemetery due to the large number of visitors. Today, the tomb of Francesc Canals, known as El Santet del Poblenou (The Little Saint of Poblenou), continues to receive numerous visitors who leave flowers, votive offerings, and photographs. Miraculous healings, marriages, fertility, and various favors unrelated to money are attributed to him.