Visiting the Sagrada Familia can be a very rewarding experience. It is one of the most beautiful and prestigious sites in the world. The construction of this landmark is the result of thousands of years of religious and architectural traditions. Whether you visit the building to attend a mass or to view the impressive art, architecture and sculpture, it will certainly be an experience that you will never forget.
UNESCO World Heritage Site
Located in the Eixample district of Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia is the world's largest unfinished church. In 2005, it was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Its construction has been ongoing for 132 years.
The basilica of the Sagrada Familia is inspired by Gothic architecture and Art Nouveau details. The interior is designed in the shape of a Latin cross. Five naves are built in the vertical part of the cross. The stained glass windows lighten the interior. Its central nave resembles a forest of columns. The columns are carved with trunk-like joints. The bases of the columns represent the Seven Deadly Sins.
The Basilica of the Sagrada Familia also includes the Passion Facade, a portico that tells the story of the passion of Jesus. It will be the last to be completed. Its decoration will include enormous statues.
Three main facades
Located between land and sea, the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is a church dedicated to Jesus Christ. It has three main facades, the Nativity, Glory, and Passion. The basilica's interior is a mix of history and symbolism.
The Nativity Facade was the first part of the church built. It was completed under the supervision of Gaudi in 1935. The Nativity Facade is a depiction of the early life of Jesus. It faces the rising sun. It has eight spires, one for each of the four Evangelists, four apostles, and the Virgin Mary. It has yellow, green, and blue glass. The Nativity Tower has a star on top. The roof is a hyperbolic paraboloid, like a horse saddle.
The Glory Facade is the largest of the three facades. It will depict the Glory of Jesus after his death, as well as the Final Judgement. It will be the main entrance to the church. It will have three porticos. Each of the doors will weigh two tons. They will have a phrase from the Lord's prayer in 50 different languages.
Masses at the Sagrada Familia
Among the best ways to experience Sagrada Familia is to attend a mass. The cathedral is a UNESCO world heritage site. The architect, Antoni Gaudi, designed the church in the early 1900s. He created geometries and forms that were inspired by nature. His work includes many iconic buildings, such as La Sagrada Familia.
The basilica is not open to the public for tours, but it does host regular masses. Visitors should arrive in advance. In summer, it can be crowded. You will want to arrive early in order to see the lit stained glass windows in the central nave.
During the week, the basilica is the least crowded, and if you are planning to visit on a Sunday, you should plan ahead. The cathedral closes at 6 pm, and it is not possible to tour the building at night.
Tower access
Visiting Sagrada Familia may be on your bucket list, but how do you go about getting to see the most impressive part? You have two options: you can buy a ticket online and skip the long line at the entrance, or you can take a guided tour. Either way, you will get a great view of Barcelona from the top of the towers.
If you are looking for the best value, you should try to find a tour with a minimum group size of thirty people. Most of these tours last around 50 minutes. Ideally, you should wear comfortable clothing and bring a wide-angle lens.
You can also choose to visit the museum, which contains information about the building's history, as well as plaster models and glass mirrors. It is a great way to learn more about the building and feel like you are a part of it.
Gift shop
During your visit to Sagrada Familia, you can purchase items from the gift shop. These products are designed by independent artists, and each item is printed one at a time. The products are quality products with socially responsible and environmentally friendly printing techniques.
When you are visiting Sagrada Familia, you should be aware of the security procedures. The security line is airport style, and you are only allowed to enter once you have passed the security checkpoints. If you have any dangerous or illegal items, these will be confiscated. You will also be required to leave your backpack in a locker before entering the elevator.
If you are planning a tour, you should choose a tour with a minimum group size of 30 people. These tours will last around 50 minutes. These tours usually involve longer tours than the standard Sagrada Familia tour.
