Sagrada Familia under construction, Barcelona, Spain

The Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família (“Expiatory Church of the Holy Family”) in Barcelona has been under construction since 1882 and will be for at least another 16 years. There are over 300 construction workers, masons, artisans, architects and others working on the church at the moment. Of all of the amazing buildings that Antoni Gaudi designed, most would consider this his masterpiece and for good reason. He devoted over 15 years of his life exclusively to the church and it’s construction. On site there is a museum that explains in some detail the design process and allows you a behind the scenes look at how this master architect worked. While Gaudi died in 1926 even at that point the length of time to finish construction was often brought up. Gaudi famously replied that “My client is in no hurry”. In November of this year the church will finally be consecrated and I hope to be able to visit after completion in 2026 as this is in my opinion one of the most incredible buildings even designed.

When you look at the organic elements of the design you can really get the feel of being in a concrete jungle of sorts. The pillars are so different than anything I have ever seen and at first glance look like they may topple or sway with the wind. As is typical with Gaudi and his designs it is difficult to find a straight line in the building. It’s quite incredible that during all this construction tourists are still able to visit the church and even take the lift or walk up one of the spindle shaped towers to get an incredible view of the city. 18 towers in all are to be built with the tallest one reaching 170 meters. It’s no wonder that the facade of Sagrada Familia has become the symbol for the city of Barcelona and is recognized world wide.

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