The Basilica of the Sagrada Família

We went the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona with friends from Canada. The construction of the basilica began in 1882 and after the architect resigned in 1883,  Antoni Gaudí took charge of the project. The Basilica still remains unfinished and construction continues with approximately 70 percent completed. The art nouveau design makes the basilica an impressive and amazing architectural building.

We walked towards the entrance admiring the massive and ornate design.

Looking at the main entrance area of the Basilica

We entered the basilica through a large and ornate entrance. The design was very busy with many different features. We took our time to look at the various designs finding unique features throughout it.

Front entrance of the Basilica

 

Looking up in the arch to the entrance of the basilica

Inside the basilica, we were overwhelmed by the massive structure and unique design.

Stained glass windows in basilica
pillars and stained glass windows inside the basilica
View of the pillars and ceiling in section of the basilica
The design of the ceiling and stained glass made the lighting inside the basilica look almost supernatural
Ray, Sarah, and Steve in the basilica
Stained glass throughout the height of the basilica walls

We walked through the main floor area of the basilica admiring the design. The view of the main altar area was incredible. The massive pillars and use of lighting made it quite impressive.

View of the altar area of the basilica

The lighting that entered at the top of the ceiling was reflected by what appeared as gold or copper metal.

Light from the ceiling above the altar reflecting on a copper or gold metal.

The altar also contained a statue of Jesus hanging from the cross.

Jesus on cross hanging above the altar in Basilica

We then walked through a passageway to an exterior section of the basilica. There we admired the outside designs taking our time to see the details. Some of the statues and designs were strange and intriguing.

Design on outside of the Basilica
Design on the door entrance area of the basilica
Roman killing infants while person trying to stop him
Turtle at the base of the pillar on outside of basilica
details on outside of the basilica
intricate details on the outside of the basilica
Three wise men depicted on basilica

We went through another passageway and down stairs to a lower section of the basilica. This section contained some of the original drawings and plaster models for the design of the basilica. This was also the area where work continues on the completion of the basilica.

Model of section of the basilica
Work area for the completion of parts of the basilica

We then headed to the crypt area to see where Antoni Gaudí was entombed.

The tomb of Antoni Gaudí in the basilica

It was a very interesting and unique basilica. Well worth seeing and recommend if you get a chance to see it.

“Adios y que tenga un grand dia”