What Is So Special About La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona?

By Robert Palmer

La Sagrada Familia is an iconic cathedral located in the heart of Barcelona, Spain. It is a masterpiece of architecture that has been under construction for over 130 years and still remains unfinished.

Despite being incomplete, it is one of the most visited landmarks in Spain, attracting millions of tourists every year. So what makes La Sagrada Familia so special? Let’s find out.

The History Behind La Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia was designed by the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí in 1882. Gaudí was commissioned to design a new cathedral for Barcelona, which would be known as the Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família or The Expiatory Temple of the Holy Family. However, due to financial and political issues, construction was delayed for many years and only resumed after Gaudí’s death in 1926.

The Symbolism in La Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia is filled with symbolism and religious imagery. The façade of the cathedral features intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Bible and Christian teachings.

The towers are designed to represent different aspects of Jesus Christ’s life, with the tallest tower reaching a height of 172 meters. The interior of the cathedral is just as impressive, featuring beautiful stained glass windows that flood the space with colorful light.

The Unique Architecture

The architecture of La Sagrada Familia is truly unique and unlike anything else in the world. Gaudi’s design was heavily influenced by nature and features organic shapes and forms throughout the building.

The columns inside mimic tree trunks, while intricate carvings on the walls resemble leaves and branches. The ceiling resembles an upside-down forest canopy with light filtering through colored glass.

The Use of Light

One of the most striking features of La Sagrada Familia is the way light is used within the building. Gaudi carefully designed the stained glass windows to allow light to filter in at different angles, creating a mesmerizing effect throughout the day. The colors of the glass change depending on the time of day and weather conditions, making each visit a unique experience.

The Unfinished Nature of the Building

Perhaps what makes La Sagrada Familia so special is its unfinished nature. The cathedral has been under construction for over 130 years and is still not complete.

However, this only adds to its charm and appeal. Visitors can see firsthand how the building has evolved over time and how it continues to be a work in progress.

Conclusion

In conclusion, La Sagrada Familia is a unique and awe-inspiring cathedral that should not be missed by anyone visiting Barcelona. Its history, symbolism, unique architecture, use of light, and unfinished nature make it one of the most special landmarks in Spain. A visit to La Sagrada Familia is sure to be a memorable experience that will leave you in awe of Antoni Gaudi’s genius and his vision for this iconic cathedral.