– This post was written by Jeremy –
The Sagrada Família is a church in Barcelona that’s incredible for a number of reasons, not least of which is the fact that it’s been under construction since 1882!
Designed by the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, the Sagrada Família is the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also the most famous and popular attraction in Barcelona, visited by more than three million people a year.
Born in 1852 in Catalonia, Gaudí’s imaginative designs left an indelible mark on the cityscape of Barcelona and beyond. Often considered the pioneer of Catalan Modernism, Gaudí drew much of his inspiration from nature. He integrated organic shapes, vibrant colors, and intricate details into his creations.
The Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, usually shortened to Sagrada Família, is regarded as Gaudí’s masterpiece, even though it’s not yet finished. Visiting it is still an amazing experience though. With modern technology, you can even see the finished Sagrada Família before the event has occurred!
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What will the Sagrada Família look like when finished?
Do you want to see the finished Sagrada Família? The construction of the cathedral won’t be completed until 2026 – but we have an animated video showing the Sagrada Família finished. Here you can see what it will look like once complete! Check it out below:
The history of Sagrada Família
Architect Francisco de Paula del Villar y Lozano was originally commissioned by the Associació de Devots de Sant Josep to construct the church Sagrada Família in 1877. He planned a Neo-Gothic design and construction of the Sagrada Família began on the 19th of March, 1882.
Due to disagreements with the architect advising the president of the Association, Francisco de Paula del Villar y Lozano abandoned the project when only the crypt was complete. The architect who had been advising turned down the offer to take over, instead recommending Antoni Gaudí. Gaudí took over and ended up making it the magnum opus of his career, working on it until his death. Read this for some interesting facts about Antoni Gaudí’s life and works!
The Sagrada Família combines various architectural styles, but its most prominent feature is Gaudí’s unique vision, characterized by stunning details and a connection to nature. Gaudí wanted this basilica to be a symbol of faith, and his intricate designs reflect his devotion.
Gaudí passed away in 1926 before seeing his masterpiece completed. Construction continued under the guidance of other talented architects, but it was interrupted by the Spanish Civil War and financial challenges. Construction was also halted completely during the worldwide pandemic in 2020.
Why has it taken so long?
The prolonged construction timeline of the Sagrada Família is due to various factors. The sheer complexity and ambitiousness of Antoni Gaudí’s design played a significant role. Gaudí aimed to create a monumental masterpiece that pushed the boundaries of architectural innovation. His intricate and innovative ideas required meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a slower construction process.
Additionally, the project faced many interruptions throughout its history. Gaudí’s unexpected death in 1926, followed by the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War, put construction on hold for extended periods.
Another crucial factor has been the reliance on private donations for funding. The Sagrada Família is primarily funded by individual contributions and ticket sales. Relying on these sources of funding, particularly during economically challenging times, has meant that progress has been contingent on the availability of financial resources.
When will the Sagrada Família be finished?
The Sagrada Família finish date is estimated to be in 2026, which will also coincide with the centennial of Gaudí’s death. Visitors will then be able to see all three grand façades with their intricate sculptures depicting the nativity, the passion of Christ, and the glory – which will represent the road to God.
Eventually, the Sagrada Família will also have eighteen spires, as opposed to the current eleven. These towers will ascend in height, with spires for the Twelve Apostles, the Virgin Mary, the four Evangelists, and Jesus Christ. The spire for Jesus will be the tallest of all and, once complete, the Sagrada Família will become the tallest church building in the world.
Inside the Sagrada Família
The only thing more impressive than the exterior of Gaudí’s awe-inspiring church is the Sagrada Família inside views – which are also remarkable! Inside the Sagrada Família is a breathtaking symphony of light, colors, and intricate details. The interior is vast and airy, with towering columns that resemble an enchanted forest. These columns branch out like tree trunks, reaching towards the ceiling like branches of a majestic tree. The ceiling features intricate designs that resemble the canopy of leaves, allowing sunlight to filter through and create a mesmerizing play of colors.
As you explore further, you’ll notice the beautiful stained glass windows that grace the walls. These windows depict scenes from nature, biblical stories, and various symbols. Every surface is adorned with intricate sculptures and ornate decorations. Delicate stone carvings depicting various religious motifs, natural elements, and symbolic figures invite you to observe and appreciate the craftsmanship.
Pro tip: You might also like to read this post to learn more about the impressive interiors of the Sagrada Família!
Visiting the Sagrada Família
There are a number of ways you can visit the Sagrada Família, based on how much time you might have and if you want to combine your visit with other attractions. This guide will help you decide what time of day to visit based on your personal travel style and needs.
If you only have a limited amount of time then you can book fast-track tickets and skip the line to explore at your own pace. This option also includes an audio guide which is available in 16 different languages. The second option is almost the same but also includes the opportunity to climb up one of the Sagrada Família towers. This is also a very unique way to experience epic views across Barcelona!
For those with a little bit more time and are also interested in hearing more about the history and construction of the Sagrada Família, this skip-the-line guided tour is an ideal choice. Touring Gaudí’s masterpiece with a bilingual guide means you will learn all about the design choices and may even see details you would otherwise have missed on your own. If you have a full day in Barcelona and want to see more of Gaudí’s amazing works, you could do a full-day tour that includes the Sagrada Família, Casa Vicens, and Casa Milá.
Along with the beautiful church, you’ll also get to explore the first and last houses that Gaudí designed.
Alternatively, one more option includes guided tours at both the Sagrada Famíla and Park Güell. That’s two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in one day, including the beautiful and famous park that overlooks the city.
Pro tip: Check out this guide to the best restaurants near the Sagrada Família if you’re looking for places to eat nearby!
Things to do near the Sagrada Família
While the Sagrada Família was the masterpiece of Gaudí’s life, there are some other extraordinary attractions nearby that he also designed. Best of all, most of these works are quite close together, meaning you can easily visit all (or most) of them in combination with your visit to the Sagrada Família!
1. Park Güell
The most flamboyant and famous park in Barcelona is Park Güell. Count Eusebi Güell commissioned Gaudí to create this unique park, which was originally intended for the city’s well-to-do. After Gaudís death it was opened to the public and to this day remains one of the best things to do in Barcelona. Here you can wander amongst exuberant buildings, colorful tile work, and the amazing snaking Serpent Bench or just relax in the sun. You can also purchase a combined ticket to explore both the park and Casa Gaudí, the house where Gaudí lived for the last 20 years of his life.
2. Gaudí Experience
Located two blocks away from the entrance to Park Güell is another intriguing attraction. Here you can learn about Gaudí and Catalan Modernism via a 4D immersive experience! This has got to be one of the most unique ways to experience Gaudí’s Barcelona.
3. Casa Batlló
Another of Gaudí’s masterpieces is Casa Batlló, a nature-inspired house in the heart of the city. Most tourists are happy to snap a photo of the whimsical exterior, but you should visit properly. Only then can you experience all parts of the interior – as well as the beautiful Dragon Rooftop!
4. Casa Milá
Also known as La Pedrera, this is the final residential building that Gaudí designed and a must-visit for fans of the architect. Once inside you can explore a museum, the reproduction of an early 20th-century apartment, an exhibition of Gaudí’s work in the attic, and the grand roof terrace. This terrace includes the famous chimney pots that look like surreal chess pieces.
Pro tip: Book yourself the Barcelona Card + the Gaudí Bundle to access free transport while you’re in Barcelona, as well as entrance to both the Sagrada Família and Park Güell, PLUS discounts on many other Barcelona attractions!
