Facts
Name of the city: Barcelona
Location: North-East Spain
Population: 1,620,000
Next international Airport: Barcelona Airport (BCN)
Next Airport flying to Asia: Barcelona Airport (BCN)
Out of all breathtaking attractions within Barcelona, La Sagrada Família is the masterpiece of all. Are you planning a trip to Barcelona? La Sagrada Família should be on top of your list.
Here are 10 facts about La Sagrada Família you need to know before visiting.
1. Under construction for over a century
La Sagrada Família project began in 1882. Antonio Gaudí died in 1926, during this time only a quarter of the basilica was completed. It is estimated to enter the final stage of construction in 2026 – 100 years after Antonio Gaudí died.
2. A school was built on site
Antonio Gaudí built a school on site of the La Sagrada Família during the early days of construction. The children of the construction workers attend the class while the fathers worked on the construction. Now, the school is the site of an exhibition of the La Sagrada Família.
3. UNESCO World Heritage Site
In 1984 La Sagrada Família was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Basilica is one of seven buildings by Antonio Gaudí that fall under this category.
4. The Cathedral became a Basilica
In the early days of the construction La Sagrada Família was understood as a Roman Catholic church. Later, it was designated as a cathedral. However, in 2010 it has been declared as a Basilica by Pope Benedict XVI.
5. Geometries
The design was created with forethought to ensure following architects will understand the drawings and details in order to complete the construction. Antonio Gaudí was aware that La Sagrada Família would not be completed during his lifetime. The construction was planned in stages. Therefore, the architects of different periods could add their design style.
6. Façade
Antonio Gaudí completed the Nativity façade only. The Nativity façade celebrates the birth of Christ and has three portals: Hope, Mercy and Faith. The Passion façade as well as the Glory façade were completed after Gaudí died. The Passion façade is designed plain and simple as it is dedicated to the death of Christ. You will see harsh lines and rigid shapes. I recommend walking around the La Sagrada Família and enjoy the different views to the façades.
7. Significant 18 towers
Once La Sagrada Família is completed, it will have 18 towers. They are allocated to the apostles (12 towers), to the evangelists (4 towers), to the Virgin Mary (1 tower) and to Jesus Christ (1 tower). The tower designated to Jesus Christ will be in the middle and is expected to be the highest one.
8. Design influenced by nature
Most religious establishments have straight structures. Antonio Gaudí designed La Sagrada Família with the influence of the nature. The double twist column inside the Basilica are one of the most important examples of nature’s influence. The shape can be found in plant species e.g. oleander and abelia.
9. Remarkable height
Once La Sagrada Família is completed, it will be the tallest religious building within Europe. The central tower in the middle will reach 170 meters. In regard to the nature aspect mentioned earlier, Antonio Gaudí planned La Sagrada Família one meter less than Montjuic, the mountain in Barcelona. Montjuic is the city’s highest point.
10. Help to support with your visit
The construction is depending on private funding, obtained through entrance tickets and private donations. Thanks to your contribution during your visit of La Sagrada Família, you have taken part in the construction of a remarkable landmark.
Last but not least, an aioutravel tip: Best photo spot around La Sagrada Família
Standing in front of the Nativity façade, turn 180 degree and go inside the small park. Just after entering the park, you can see the pond. Go around and you will see La Sagrada Família with a beautiful reflection in the water. Sit on a wall and let someone else take a picture from you.
Do you know other interesting facts about the breathtaking monument? Just leave a comment, I am looking forward to it.
After your visit of La Sagrada Família you can enjoy other attractions of the beautiful city Barcelona.