Sagrada Família, Barcelona

The Sagrada Família, a towering masterpiece of Gothic and Art Nouveau design, is one of Barcelona's most iconic landmarks and a testament to the visionary architect Antoni Gaudí. Consecrated as a minor basilica in 2010 by Pope Benedict XVI, this unfinished church has been under construction since 1882 and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing millions of visitors each year.

Gaudí's ambitious design for the Sagrada Família combines Christian symbolism and organic forms, creating a unique architectural experience. The church is famed for its intricate facades, each one representing a significant biblical theme: the Nativity, the Passion, and the Glory. The Nativity facade, completed during Gaudí's lifetime, is particularly noted for its detailed sculptures depicting the birth of Jesus Christ.

The interior of the Sagrada Família is a forest of columns stretching towards the heavens, supporting a complex structure of vaults and hyperbolic paraboloid shapes. Gaudí intended for the inside of the church to resemble a forest, with branching columns creating a canopy overhead. The stained glass windows filter light into a multitude of colors, contributing to a mystical atmosphere that inspires awe and contemplation.

Despite Gaudí's death in 1926, the construction of the Sagrada Família continues, funded by private donations and the proceeds from the millions of tourists who visit each year. The project's completion is planned for 2026, marking the centenary of Gaudí's passing. Once finished, the church will boast 18 towers, with the tallest one dedicated to Jesus Christ, reaching a height of 170 meters, making it one of the tallest religious structures in the world.

Visitors can explore the basilica, with options to ascend some of the towers and enjoy panoramic views of Barcelona. The Sagrada Família also houses a museum detailing its history, Gaudí's life, and the ongoing construction process.