La Sagrada Familia

The image of this wonder of the world aka La Sagrada Familia has been inscribed as the primary symbol of the Catalunyan capital for most of its visitors and residents alike. The majestic creation of the city’s most famous architect Antoni Gaudí, the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia was first designed by Francisco de Paula del Villar following the prevailing guidelines of the time, with lots of neo-Gothic elements.

Technical differences, regarding the cost of materials, led this architect to be replaced with another who was just starting to stand out in the field, Antoni Gaudí, who took the project in a different direction, transforming it into an ambitious proposal for the church of the future.

Gaudí took over the project in 1883, a few months after the cornerstone was laid on the site by Bishop Urquinaona. Its construction would preoccupy this great master until he died in 1926 when less than a quarter of his grand project had been completed. He would constantly readjust and modify his plans to fit his vision.

Since his death, this extraordinary combination of neo-Gothic & Art Nouveau has progressed steadily despite several interruptions with the goal being the year 2026, the centenary of Gaudi’s death. More than 3 million visit the monument each year. Due to the popularity of the Basilica, it is advised you purchase your tickets online to avoid the long queues at the entrance.

The Museum on the ground floor of the Basilica displays drawings by Gaudí, of the evolution in the construction of the church, seen through photographs and drawings of the period. More about the Basilica, visiting hours, and tickets