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“Nothing is art if it does not come from nature”
One of Gaudi’s famous statements, it well summarizes the works of the Spanish artist and the link with nature. An element that characterizes both the Sagrada Familia and the other works of Gaudi. And it is precisely upon entering the interior that one is captivated by the elements and the play of light that almost give it the appearance of a luminous forest.
The Templo Expiatorio de la Sagrada Familia, universally known as Sagrada Familia, is the symbol of an entire city. It would be impossible to imagine a holiday in Barcelona without having seen (at least from the outside) the Basilica.
The work of the brilliant Anton Gaudi was included (Nativity Facade and Crypt) in 2005 in the UNESCO World Heritage Site along with 6 other monuments of the Spanish artist. In 2010, although it was still unfinished, it was consecrated as a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI.
The first stone was laid back in 1882. Only a year later, Gaudi took over the project of this work until his death, trying to create (as it would have been) a monumental complex of extraordinary dimensions, with 3 facades 1 18 towers. The Spanish artist would then leave instructions to his successors, so that each architect could offer their own contribution.
“My client is in no hurry. God has all the time in the world”[Gaudi]
Of the Towers, about the goal has been completed. The Tower of the Virgin Mary, surmounted by the Morning Star, currently represents the highest point: 127.50 meters. To complete the work, the primacy will instead go to the Tower of Jesus Christ which with its 172.50m will be the highest point of the Sagrada Familia. Intended, it could take place in 2026, during the celebrations of the centenary of the death of Anton Gaudi.
PRACTICAL INFO
HOW TO GET
The Sagrada Familia is located in the center, at Carrer de Mallorca 401, in the Eixample district. It is easily accessible by public transport. With the efficient metro, you have to use the L2 and L5 lines, and get off at the stop of the same name. The metro station is fully accessible for people with reduced mobility.
With city bus lines 19, 33, 34, 43, 44, 50, 51, B20 and B24, get off at the “Sagrada Família” stop.
The Red and Blue lines of the Hop-on-Hop-Off Tourist Bus also peep out near the Basilica.
WHAT TO SEE
On the north-east side of the building, the wonderful Facade of the Nativity, stretches towards the sky. It is the first to be completed and the one you will admire after passing through the access controls. The Facade of Glory is beautiful which is located on the south-east side and which, according to the project, once completed will constitute the main entrance. The Facade of the Passions is dominated by the 4 Towers of the Apostles.
The interior of the Basilica, equally wonderful, is an incredible combination of lights and colors that blend perfectly with all the elements. Brightness and hue vary depending on the time of day.
The ascent to the Towers, on the other hand, undoubtedly represents the culmination of the visit to the building. Thanks to the elevators, it is possible to climb to the top of the Tower of the Passion or the Tower of the Nativity. From the height of 112.20 and 107 meters (respectively) they offer a spectacular view of the city.
SAGRADA FAMILIA TIMETABLE
La Sagrada Familia is open every day, including holidays, at the following times:
- From April to September from 9am to 8pm.
- From November to February from 9am to 6pm.
- October and March from 9:00 to 19:00.
- 25 and 26 December and 1 and 6 January from 9:00 to 14:00.
With regard to clothing, only clothing appropriate to a sacred place is preferable. Inside it is possible to take photos.
On Sunday morning (at 09:00), on Saturday evening and on the evening of the eve of public holidays (at 20:00) it is possible to attend the international mass. The function is carried out in different languages including English.
TICKETS
The ticket to visit the Basilica alone costs €26 for adults and €24 for students and children aged 12 to 30.
The ticket with access also to the Towers, on the other hand, costs €36 for adults and €34 for children under 30.
All tickets include the audio guide from the App. If you want a guided tour, an additional €4 per person is required. Admission is not included with the Barcelona Card.
If the price seems excessive, keep in mind that the entire proceeds are always reinvested in the works of the Basilica. You too can offer your contribution.
There are a number of combined packages available that offer discounts and concessions for visiting this and other attractions in Barcelona. It is always better to opt for the online ticket purchase in order to avoid queues and gatherings at the ticket office, with unnecessary waste of time. Queues can be really scary on weekends!