Designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi the cathedral began its construction in 1883. At the time of Gaudi death in 1926 the church was less than a quarter complete. Construction stopped during the Spanish Civil War and did not begin again until the 1950's. The cathedral is estimated to be completed in 2026.
They pierced My hands and My feet; I can count all My bones, They look and stare at Me. They divide My garments among them, And for My clothing they cast lots. But You, O Lord, do not be far from Me: O My Strength, hasten to help Me! - Psalms 22:16-19
Gaudi wonderfully combined Gothic, Modernism and Art Nouveau styles. The plans call for 18 Spires that are to represent the 12 Apostles, the Virgin Mary, the Four Evangelists (Mathew, Mark, Luke & John) and Jesus Christ. The cathedral will have three main facades: the Glory Façade, the Passion Façade and Nativity Façade. The Nativity Façade is the oldest constructed between 1894 and 1930. The theme is on the Tree of Life, the marriage of Joseph and the Virgin Mary and the birth of Christ. It represents Hope, Faith and Charity.
Therefore the Lord Himself will give you a sign: Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel. - Isaiah 7:14
The Passion Façade began construction in 1954 and completed in 1987. The façade dedicated to Christ's sacrifice and suffering focuses on the stories of leading up to the crucifixion and the price He paid for the sins of man. The 4 towers on the façade represents the apostle's James, Thomas, Phillip and Bartholonmew and decorated with the words Hosanna, Sanctus and Excelsis.
The Glory Façade began construction in 2002 and meant as the main entrance; it will also be the largest when finished. The theme is on the Glory of Jesus Christ; including the road to God from death, judgment and glory.
After this Jesus, knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the Scripture might be fulfilled, said, “I thirst!” Now a vessel full of sour wine was sitting there; and they filled a sponge and put it to His month. So when Jesus had received the sour wine, He said, “It is finished!” And bowing His head, He gave up His spirit. - John 19:28-30
The Latin cross layout of the interiors is uniquely Gaudi with organic tree like formed columns branching up to the sky to support the ceiling. The stain glass interiors create natural luminous lighting throughout; the church is not over lit or dark. The Apse features Christ barring the cross before He ascends to Heaven.
La Sagrada Familia is a wonderful place to visit again and again in one of the greatest cities I know. Each time I visit there is something new to see.