EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE SAGRADA FAMILIA

Barcelona is a city full of incredible architecture and landmarks, but nothing compares to the Sagrada Familia. This iconic basilica is one of the most recognizable attractions in Barcelona and the world. With its impressive size, intricate details, and fascinating history, the Sagrada Familia is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Sagrada Familia, from its history and exciting facts to insider tips and nearby attractions.

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About The Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is not just a church. It’s a masterpiece that tells a story of love and devotion. This stunning basilica was born from the creative mind of the brilliant Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, who dedicated more than 40 years to this project. The construction of the Sagrada Familia began in 1882, and Gaudí took over the project in 1883, giving it his unique touch. Gaudí’s vision for the Sagrada Familia was grandiose. He intended it to be the ultimate expression of his artistic and spiritual beliefs. The basilica combines Gothic and Art Nouveau styles with a touch of modernism typical of Gaudí’s work. His innovative ideas and techniques are present throughout the structure, from light to the organic shapes and colors of the stained glass windows. Sadly, Gaudí passed away in 1926 before seeing his masterpiece completed. The construction of the Sagrada Familia has been ongoing for over 140 years. It is expected to be completed by 2026, the centenary of Gaudí’s death. The basilica has survived a Civil War, multiple bombings, and fire, but it still stands tall as a testament to the creativity and perseverance of the human spirit. When you visit the Sagrada Familia, you can’t help but feel overwhelmed by its beauty and grandeur. Every corner is adorned with intricate details. The play of light and shadows creates a unique atmosphere that is both peaceful and awe-inspiring. You can’t help but feel the love and dedication that has gone into this masterpiece, and it’s an experience that will stay with you forever.

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Interesting Facts About The Sagrada Familia

• Construction of Sagrada Familia began in 1882 and is still ongoing, making it one of the most extended construction projects in history.

 

• The basilica’s design combines Gothic and Art Nouveau styles.

 

• The basilica has 18 spires, each representing a different religious figure. The tallest spire, representing Jesus Christ, is still under construction.

 

• Gaudí’s workshop, which contained many of his plans and models for the Sagrada Familia, was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War.

 

• The Sagrada Familia has been funded entirely by donations and entry fees.

 

• The Sagrada Familia has its own post office. Visitors can purchase stamps and postcards featuring the basilica and mail them from the post office inside it.

 

• Antoni Gaudí, the architect of the Sagrada Familia, died in 1926 and was buried in the basilica’s crypt. The public can visit his tomb.

 

• The Sagrada Familia is a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts millions of visitors annually. In 2019, it was the most visited monument in Spain.

 

• The stained glass windows in the basilica were designed to flood the interior with natural light and create a sense of spirituality and awe. The colors and shapes of the glass were carefully chosen to represent different themes and moods.

 

• The completion date of the Sagrada Familia is estimated to be in the year 2026, which will mark the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death. However, the construction’s ongoing nature and complexity may further push the completion date.

 

Insider Tips

If you’re planning a visit to the Sagrada Familia, it’s essential to know that long queues can form outside the attraction, particularly during peak tourist season. To avoid this, we recommend booking your tickets online in advance. You can do this directly from the attraction’s website or through authorized ticket sellers like Barcelona Pass or Ticketbar. Many of these sellers also offer skip-the-line tickets, saving you valuable time during your visit. Another insider tip is to consider taking a guided tour of the Sagrada Familia. Not only do these tours provide a more in-depth experience, but they can also help you skip the lines and avoid the crowds. Your guide can offer you insider knowledge and interesting facts about the attraction that you might not have known otherwise. For the best experience, we recommend visiting the Sagrada Familia early in the morning or late afternoon. The light during these times of day is softer, creating a beautiful atmosphere inside the church. Plus, you’ll likely encounter fewer crowds and have more space to explore the attraction at your own pace.

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Opening Hours

The Sagrada Familia is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. The opening hours vary depending on the season, but it’s generally open from 9 am to 7 pm. During the summer months, it stays open until 8 pm.  

Location

The Sagrada Familia is located in the Eixample district of Barcelona, at Carrer de Mallorca, 401.  

Where To Stay Near Sagrada Familia

Many accommodation options are near the Sagrada Familia, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some popular neighborhoods to stay in include Eixample, Gracia, and El Born. For places to stay in Barcelona, click here for a list and the latest prices.  

Nearby Attractions

The Sagrada Familia is in a bustling area of Barcelona with plenty of nearby attractions. Some popular ones include Park Güell, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera, and the Gothic Quarter.

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How To Get To The Sagrada Familia

The easiest way to get to the Sagrada Familia is by metro or bus. The metro station is Sagrada Familia, serviced by lines 2 and 5. If you’re taking the bus, you can take routes 19, 33, 34, 43, 44, 50, 51, B20, and B24. There are also several parking lots nearby if you’re driving. Click here to get your Barcelona Public Transportation Card.  

Wishing you pleasant trips!

Sue & Renesh

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WHERE TO STAY IN BARCELONA

Check here for a list and the latest prices of where to stay in Barcelona, Spain.

For other places to stay in Spain, click here for a list and the latest prices.

 

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