Sagrada Familia is a church situated in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks of the country and illustrates one of the most impressive architectural designs ever used in religious buildings. The official name of the church is Templo Expiatorio de la Sagrada Familia which translates as Expiatory Church of the Holy Family. It is a massive Roman Catholic church that is considered the masterpiece of the famous Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi.

Gaudi started his work on the project in 1883 and spent fifteen years of his life completely devoted to it. The project is still in progress and is planned to be completed in 2026. Gaudi died in 1926 and the project went into the hands of Domenech Sugranyes. During the 20th century the construction has stopped for short periods of time during the Spanish Civil War and the time of the Catalan anarchists. Many famous architects and engineers have contributed to the project following the initial designs and plans of Gaudi.
Despite the fact the church is not yet completed, it is one of the most visited attractions in Barcelona and Spain. Parts of the interior of the church are open to visitors and are being visited by 2.2 million people every year. In 2010 open worship and tours have started in the church.

The church has been described by its creator as the “last great sanctuary of Christendom”. The design is characterized by eighteen great spires that represent the twelve apostles, the four evangelists, the Virgin Mary and the highest Jesus Christ. The church is planned to have three facades- one describing the Nativity scene directed to the east, one called the Glory facade to the south and the Passion facade looking west.

Car rental companies that you can use in the city of Barcelona are Autoeurope, Europcar, Cooltra, Sixt, Hertz and more.

One Response to “Sagrada Familia”