The Sagrada Família is an iconic Roman Catholic basilica located in Barcelona, Spain. It was designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí and construction began in 1882. Today, it remains unfinished, but is a major tourist attraction and one of the most popular landmarks in the city.
History of the Sagrada Família
The Sagrada Família was commissioned by the Spanish city council in 1882. It was designed by Antoni Gaudí, who was already a well-known architect in the city. He was chosen for the project due to his modernist style and bold, unconventional designs. Gaudí devoted the last years of his life to the project and even lived onsite in his own home, which is now part of the Sagrada Família complex.
Gaudí’s design for the Sagrada Família was heavily inspired by nature and is one of the most remarkable examples of Catalan Modernism. He wanted to create a building that was both modern and rooted in the Catholic faith. The building is composed of 18 spires, each of which represents a different aspect of the Christian faith. It also features intricate carvings, mosaics, and stained glass windows.
Construction of the Sagrada Família
Construction of the Sagrada Família began in 1882 and has been ongoing ever since. Gaudí worked on the project until his death in 1926, at which point the building was only 25% complete. In the years since, various architects have worked to complete the project, but it remains unfinished. The current estimated date for completion is 2026, which marks the centenary of Gaudí’s death.
The construction of the Sagrada Família has been funded primarily by donations from private individuals, churches, and companies. The building is owned by the Archdiocese of Barcelona and is managed by the Board of Trustees of the Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família.
Architectural Style of the Sagrada Família
The Sagrada Família is one of the most iconic examples of Catalan Modernism. Gaudí was heavily influenced by nature and his designs are often characterized by flowing, organic shapes. He also used bold colors and unconventional materials, such as broken ceramic pieces, in his designs.
The exterior of the Sagrada Família features a series of spires and towers, which are each dedicated to a different aspect of the Christian faith. The building also features intricate carvings and mosaics, as well as stained glass windows. Inside, the building is composed of several large naves and chapels, which are all decorated with stained glass windows and mosaics.
Notable Features of the Sagrada Família
The Sagrada Família is one of the most iconic landmarks in Barcelona and is home to a number of notable features. One of the most famous is the Nativity Facade, which was designed by Gaudí and is decorated with sculptures and mosaics. The Passion Facade is another popular feature, which is dedicated to the Passion of Jesus Christ and is decorated with sculptures of the Twelve Apostles.
The Sagrada Família also features a crypt, which is the resting place of Antoni Gaudí. The crypt is decorated with a marble plaque that reads “Tot Hom Que Passa Per Aquí Guardi Silenci” (“Let Everyone Who Passes Here Keep Silence”).
Visiting the Sagrada Família
The Sagrada Família is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona and receives millions of visitors each year. Visitors can explore the building on their own or take a guided tour. There are also a number of shops and restaurants located in the complex, as well as a museum dedicated to the history of the Sagrada Família.
Ticket Prices
- Adult ticket: €15
- Youth ticket (12-17): €10
- Child ticket (under 12): €5
The Sagrada Família is open every day from 9am to 8pm. Tickets can be purchased online or at the ticket office onsite. Visitors are advised to book their tickets in advance, as the Sagrada Família can get very busy during peak times.