Why Is the Church in Barcelona Unfinished?

By Alice Nichols

Have you ever visited the stunning city of Barcelona and witnessed the Sagrada Familia, the iconic church that has been under construction for over a century? It’s hard to miss this magnificent structure, which attracts millions of visitors each year.

But have you ever wondered why this church remains unfinished? Let’s take a closer look.

The History of Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia was designed by a renowned Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudi, in 1882. However, the construction of the church began only in 1887 and continued until Gaudi’s death in 1926. After his death, several architects continued his work on the church, but due to various circumstances such as wars and lack of funding, the construction was halted for several years.

Why is it still unfinished?

One of the primary reasons why Sagrada Familia remains unfinished even after more than a century is because it is entirely funded by private donations. Unlike other churches or monuments that receive government funding and support, Sagrada Familia relies solely on donations from visitors and supporters worldwide.

Another reason is that Gaudi did not leave behind any detailed plans or blueprints for the church. He worked on it from his imagination and created models using clay and plaster. Therefore, every architect who took over after him had to interpret his designs based on their understanding.

How much longer will it take to complete?

Despite being unfinished for so long, there is no definite timeline for when Sagrada Familia will be completed. The current project manager estimates that it could take another decade or two to finish everything. However, this timeline depends entirely on funding and availability of resources.

The Beauty of Unfinished

While some may see an unfinished building as a flaw or a mistake, others see its beauty in its incompleteness. Sagrada Familia is a unique piece of art that has been crafted over the years by several architects, each with their own interpretation and vision.

The church’s unfinished state has become a symbol of perseverance and determination for the people of Barcelona. It represents their commitment to seeing this project through, no matter how long it takes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Sagrada Familia’s unfinished state is not due to any negligence or lack of effort. It is an ongoing project that relies on private donations and continues to inspire millions of people worldwide with its unique beauty. The church’s completion may be years away, but it remains a symbol of hope and perseverance for the people of Barcelona and beyond.