“Nothing is invented, for it’s written in nature first.” Antoni Gaudí
It’s Easter Sunday and what better place to share a moment from than a stunning church?
Behold the breathtaking, nature-inspired Sagrada Familia, the masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí.
Sagrada Familia is one of the top tourist attractions in Barcelona and I can see why. The building is somewhat difficult to photograph from the outside because it is huge and there is so much detail but I assure you, it is an incredible site to see. You will definitely want to add this gorgeous church to your itinerary.
The two photos below are from when Maja and I arrived and when we left. As you can see it was overcast when we arrived and then the clouds parted and the sun came out.
Below are some interesting facts discussed on the audio guide and from the internet about the church.
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It’s Still Under Construction Over 140 Years Later. Construction began March 19, 1882, and it’s still not complete. Gaudí took over the project in 1883 and worked on it until his death in 1926. The timeline for completion is fluid but in 2024 an updated forecast reconfirmed a likely completion of the building in 2026, with work on sculptures, decorative details and a controversial stairway leading to the main entrance is expected to continue until 2034.
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On 7 November 2010, Pope Benedict XVI consecrated the church and proclaimed it a minor basilica.
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It is funded entirely by private donations and ticket sales.
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Antoni Gaudí is buried inside.
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Nature was Gaudí’s biggest inspiration for the design. Natural light floods the space through vibrant stained-glass windows. Gaudí designed the colors strategically:
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Cool tones (blues and greens) on the east side, where the sun rises — symbolizing birth and tranquility.
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Warm tones (reds, oranges, yellows) on the west, where the sun sets — representing passion and the end of life.
As the sun moves, the light inside changes constantly, creating a living, breathing space.
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The ceiling soars up to 45 meters (148 feet) in the nave. Intricate geometric patterns and star-like details draw your eyes upward, giving the impression of ascending toward the divine.
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It Will Have 18 Towers When Complete.
Each tower has symbolic meaning:
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12 for the Apostles
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4 for the Evangelists
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1 for the Virgin Mary
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1 for Jesus Christ — which will be 172.5 meters high, making it the tallest church building in the world.
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It appears Gaudí put a ton of thought and intention into every little detail. The inside of the building is mesmerizing. The colors from the stained glass that fill the room are warm and inviting and bring a sense of calm and peace. It is like stepping into a forest. The columns look like tall tree trunks with branches stretching out and just the softest bit of sunlight peeking through.
The sanctuary was incredible. It left me speechless. It is a powerful testament to Gaudí’s devotion to his faith.
There is a table with a mirror located in the back of the church offering a unique perspective of the architecture and the light. Absolutely gorgeous.
It was slightly humorous watching everyone taking photos…and the kids making funny faces at themselves.
The church is truly a work of art. Gaudí’s vision and dedication to this building is a gift to the world that sadly he knew he would never live to see completed but he was determined nonetheless. I’m reminded of the quote, “Blessed Are Those Who Plant Trees Under Whose Shade They Will Never Sit.” Gaudí planted a “tree” that will hopefully be enjoyed and appreciated by many for centuries to come.
When I learned about his untimely death during my research, I was heartbroken for him. Here is a statement about his passing.
While on his way to confession on 7 June 1926, Gaudí was hit by a tram on the Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes in Barcelona. Because he had stopped worrying about his appearance and health, he was poorly dressed and appeared quite gaunt, supposedly leading people to think he was homeless and ignore the injured man. He no identification on him and was unconscious. After eventually being taken to a hospital, he reportedly only received basic care until the Chaplain of the Sagrada Familia discovered him. He died of his wounds on 10 June. He was 73.
Good Things List
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Antoni Gaudí – “God’s Architect”
Much love & gratitude. Namaste 🙏
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