The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is one of the most iconic landmarks of Barcelona, Spain. It is an enormous Roman Catholic basilica designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi. The basilica was started in 1882 and is still under construction today. It is the most visited monument in Spain and one of the most visited in the world.
History
The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia was first conceived in 1866 when a local bookseller, Josep Maria Bocabella, founded the Society of Jesus of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The original plans for the basilica were created by Francisco de Paula del Villar y Lozano. Construction began in 1882 but the project was taken over by Gaudi in 1883, who completely redesigned the plans for the building.
Gaudi worked on the project for over 40 years until his death in 1926. The project was continued by his successors, who continued to follow Gaudi’s original vision. Since then, several additions and renovations have been made to the building.
Architecture
The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is a large, neo-Gothic basilica with a mixture of styles from the Catalan modernist, Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods. The building is composed of three distinct façades, the Nativity Façade, the Passion Façade and the Glory Façade. Each façade has its own unique design, with intricate sculptures and carvings depicting biblical scenes and symbols.
The interior of the basilica is just as impressive as the exterior. It is composed of 18 towers, each representing one of the Apostles. The central nave is adorned with stunning stained glass windows, and the walls are decorated with ornate mosaics.
Notable Features
The Nativity Façade
The Nativity Façade is the oldest part of the basilica, and the most impressive. It was designed by Gaudi and completed in 1930. The façade is decorated with sculptures of Jesus and the Virgin Mary, as well as scenes from the Nativity.
The Passion Façade
The Passion Façade was designed by Gaudi’s assistant, Josep Subirachs, and completed in 1987. It depicts scenes from the Passion of Christ, including the Crucifixion and the Deposition.
The Glory Façade
The Glory Façade is the newest part of the basilica and was completed in 2011. It is the most intricate and ornate of the façades, and depicts scenes from the life of Jesus.
Conclusion
The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is one of the most impressive and iconic landmarks in Barcelona. It is an architectural masterpiece, combining Gothic, Art Nouveau and Art Deco elements. The basilica is still under construction, and is expected to be completed in 2026, 100 years after Gaudi’s death.
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