Sagrada Família: Gaudí’s unfinished legacy

La Sagrada Família (translation:  The holy family) is a world-famous church located in the city of Barcelona, Spain. It is designed by the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí (1852 – 1926).

Despite it being a mega tourist attraction, attracting millions of visitors every year who are traveling Spain, we personally think that a visit to this beautiful church should not be missed on a trip to Barcelona! It has become one of the most recognizable landmarks of the city thanks to its unique and impressive architecture.

History of the Sagrada Família

Construction of Sagrada Família began in 1882, with architect Francisco de Paula del Villar designing the original plans. However, after only a year, Antoni Gaudí took over as the chief architect and completely redesigned the church and came up with its unique and impressive architecture. He worked on the project until his death in 1926, after which several architects continued to work on it, incorporating their own ideas into Gaudí's original design. Only a quarter of the Sagrada Família was done when Gaudí passed away.

Despite the long construction period, the church remains unfinished to this day, with an estimated completion date of 2030. However, this has not stopped it from becoming one of the most famous churches in the world. 

How to visit Sagrada Família

Sagrada Família is open to visitors every day of the year, although opening hours vary depending on the season. You can purchase tickets online in advance or on the day of your visit, but it is recommended that you book ahead as the church can get very busy, particularly during peak tourist season. It is recommended to download the official Sagrada Família app to get all its benefits and advantages, here you can also buy tickets and tours + find the audio guide.

There are several types of tickets available, including basic admission, audio guides, and guided tours. The audio guide is available in multiple languages and provides an in-depth explanation of the church's history and architecture. Guided tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can answer any questions you may have and provide additional insights into the church's design and Gaudí’s train of thought during the construction.

What to Do at Sagrada Família

There are several things to see and do once you are inside Sagrada Família. The church’s interior is breathtaking, with its towering columns and colorful stained-glass windows. You can also visit the museum, which houses a collection of Gaudí’s original drawings and models, providing an insight into his creative process.

One of the highlights of a visit to Sagrada Família is the opportunity to climb one of the church's towers. From the top, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of Barcelona and its surroundings. There is an elevator which brings you to the top of the tower. After the elevator you must walk up a few stairs to enjoy the most stunning views of Barcelona.

The walk down is only stairs, which can be quite strenuous and is not recommended for those with mobility issues.

Conclusion

Sagrada Família is one of the most famous churches in the world, and a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting Barcelona. Its unique architecture made by Antoni Gaudí, rich history, and stunning views of Barcelona make it a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you are interested in art, architecture, or simply want to soak up the atmosphere of this incredible city, Sagrada Família is a must-see. So why not book your tickets today and discover this iconic landmark for yourself?

For info and tickets:

https://sagradafamilia.org/en/home

For pictures of our visit to the Sagrada Família:

www.instagram.com/barcelonawhatsgood