A place of magic
The Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia is one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona and one of the most relevant basilicas of modern architecture. The monumental building was designed by Catalan architect Antonio Gaudí and has been under construction for over 100 years. It is the world’s only large church which is still undergoing construction. I strongly recommend visiting the church when in Barcelona. Many tourists describe the visit as a fascinating experience.
The church impresses with its remarkable architecture, its intricate details, and its astonishing scale. The interior is full of magic, and the outside brings the stones of the façade to life. Each component tells a story. All pieces whether small or big are placed exactly where they belong.
The vaulting roof, the colourful windows, and the organically-shaped columns are awe-inspiring. The Sagrada Familia is a place where spirituality, art, and architecture meet. The colourful lighting creates a unique atmosphere that varies depending on the time of day. The arrangement of trunks and branches that support the vaulting ceilings diffuses the sunlight to further enhance the atmosphere.
Antonio Gaudí
Antonio Gaudí oversaw the construction of the basilica until his death. He even lived on-site and was also buried there. After his death, his work was declared as UNESCO World Heritage. Gaudí integrated all artistic disciplines within architecture. He spent most of his life planning and building the Sagrada Familia. During his lifetime he already prognosticated the impact his work would have. He prophesized that people would come and visit from all over the world to admire his creation. And indeed the Sagrada Familia became a masterpiece and an architectural icon. The building showcases how technical expertise, artistic expression, and structural calculations can realize seemingly impossible visions.
The Sagrada Family presents a perfect harmony of tradition and innovation which is represented in all aspects of the building. To this day its building materials are still processed through traditional techniques. Some of the craftsmen working on the building, such as the stonemasons are the last remaining masters of their discipline. The same goes for glass or metal works which create mosaics and colourful windows which tell a significant part of the building’s story.
The basilica was consecrated in 2010. Since then visitors have been able to visit the building’s interior. Most visitors feel deeply touched afterward even if they are not religious. The monumental height, the proportions, and the incredible lighting elevate the Sagrada Familia to much more than just a basilica. They create a place magic and wonder. The Sagrada Familia is a place by the people for the people no matter what nationality or religion they are a part of.
