sagrada

Sagrada Familia

By Dom Bewley

Gaudí is one of the world's most famous architects. Such was his influence at the beginning of the 20th-century, you'll find his work all over his native Barcelona. His greatest achievement is undoubtedly La Sagrada Familia, a huge monument to Gaudí's faith. So, let's take a deep dive into La Sagrada Familia, and discover why it absolutely has to be on your itinerary!

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What is La Sagrada Familia?

To put it simply, La Sagrada Familia is a temple that was designed by world-famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. It was considered his Magnum Opus, but he was unable to finish it before his death more than 100 years ago. To this day, the monument has yet to be finished, and work continues to this day.

Who was Antoni Gaudí?

Antoni Gaudí i Cornet was a Catalan architect born in 1852. His unique style, characterized by the marriage of neo-Gothic art, Oriental art techniques, and a fascination with nature and the human body, led the Catalan Modernism movement. A Barcelona local, his creations are found predominantly in the city.

Rather than working from sketches, Gaudí preferred creating detailed 3D models of his would-be buildings before construction. This often meant more time spent in pre-production than many other architects of his time, but is likely part of the reason his works remain so unique to this day.

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History of La Sagrada Família

The idea for La Sagrada Familia was conceived in 1872, after bookseller and prominent religious organizer Josep Maria Bocabella returned from the Vatican. After seeing the Basilica Della Santa Casa, or Basilica of the Holy House), he wanted to create a similar church in Barcelona.

Josep approached famed Catalan architect Francisco de Paula del Villar, who planned to create an authentic Gothic revival church. Work began in 1882, but Villar only oversaw the creation of the apse crypt before resigning from his position in 1883.

That's when our man Gaudí stepped in. After radically redesigning the building, work continued, and he was appointed architect director one year later.

But Gaudí knew his design would take many years to come to fruition. Thankfully, Josep didn't mind this; the work, and the time it would take to finish it, would speak for itself.

However, nearly forty years later, only 20% of the work was complete. And worse yet, Gaudí soon passed away, leaving his understudy Domènec Sugrañes i Gras to carry on in his stead. In fact, both Gaudí and Maria Bocabella are the only two people to be laid to rest in the crypt.

Then, tragedy struck. The Spanish Civil War led to parts of the building being destroyed and the plans being badly burnt. Therefore, once the war was over, it took over 15 years to reconstruct his original plans from early concepts and undamaged sections. In the years since, many architects have taken control of the project.

And now, nearly 150 years after the project was conceived, it's almost complete.

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La Sagrada Familia design and influences

Every inch of the church is symbolic of important elements of Christianity. Originally, eighteen spires were planned, symbolizing Jesus, his twelve disciples, the Virgin Mary, and the four Evangelists (Luke, Mathew, John, and Mark). However, to date, only nine have been completed. A religious man himself, Gaudí insisted that the largest spire, dedicated to Jesus, be shorter than Montjuïc Hill, so as not to surpass divine creation.

The three grand façades are similarly dedicated to important moments in the faith; the Nativity represents the birth of Jesus and life itself, the Passion of his sacrifice, and the Glory of his everlasting reign. Each has its fair share of iconic imagery, ranging from life-affirming to torment.

The interior of the church is a feast for the eyes, with geometric shapes intersecting throughout the pillars and the ceiling. No single surface is flat, as abstract shapes undulate with curves, twists, and jagged edges.

Gaudí's style influenced the Cubism movement, and you can see as much in the church's design.

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Visiting La Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia is easily one of Barcelona's most prominent tourist spots, with thousands of people visiting the breathtaking building every year. And the best way to see it is by taking a guided tour. Your experienced guide will give you insight into every exciting part of its design, from inside to out. They'll unravel every hidden element of symbolism not covered above, and leave you with a newfound appreciation for Gaudí's work.

However, as one of the city's most visited places, you have to book ahead if you want to get a spot. And expect to be among crowds, which has taken on a whole new meaning after recent events!

If you'd rather skip all that and see the church from a different perspective, why not take a Virtual 360 tour of the building without even setting a foot inside? Thanks to the power of virtual reality technology, you can explore every surface up close, all while standing outdoors, away from the hustle and bustle of the church's innards! What would Gaudí think about that? We're sure he'd be impressed.

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Other Gaudí Highlights

Of course, La Sagrada Familia is just one of Gaudí's many creations in Barcelona!

You could stroll around Park Güell and see his many unique creations, including the salamander mosaic El Drac, and ascend the rib-like staircase to the Porter's Lodge.

Why not visit Casa Batlló? It's a homestead turned tourist attraction that's often considered the epitome of Gaudí's finished works.

Or, take a trip to the ghoulish-looking La Pedrera, with its limestone-chiseled walls mimicking bleached bone.

Alternatively, go back to where it all began at Casa Vicens, Gaudí's first-ever architectural work.

Perhaps this all seems a bit pedestrian? If you want to see Gaudí's creations through a different lens, head to the Gaudí Experience 4D and take a breathtaking digital ride through his life, times, and influences.

If getting to all of these on your vacation seems a struggle, board a hop-on hop-off bus tour and get to them all in a single day!

And that's everything you need to know about La Sagrada Familia!

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Basílica de Santa María del Mar
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Best Churches in Barcelona - Guide

Heading to Barcelona this year and interested in the city's deep connection to the Catholic faith? Or just looking for somewhere to chat to the big man upstairs? Check out our guide to the best churches in Barcelona, and see which best suits you! Including: La Sagrada Familia Basílica de Santa María del Mar Basílica de Santa María del Pi La Catedral de Barcelona Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús and more! La Sagrada Familia La Sagrada Familia isn't just one of the best churches in Barcelona - it's one of the most unique and eye-catching buildings on Earth. Designed by renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí and only nearing completion 120+ years after work began, it's one of the most prominent jewels in Barcelona's crown. Each element, from the spires to the interior façades, was meticulously designed around themes of Christianity. Every inch holds meaning. There's nothing quite like it in any other place on the planet, making it an absolute must-visit for anyone visiting the city, Christian or otherwise. To make the most of your visit, and to uncover all the church's secrets, take a guided tour and get the low down from a learned guide. This is the way. Basílica de Santa María del Pi A 14th-century gem, the Santa Maria del Pi is named after a large pine tree that faced the church during construction. Widely considered one of the best churches in Barcelona, it mimics the Catalan Gothic style of Basilica de Santa María del Mar, with its less extravagant design and large, beautiful windows. In fact, the Santa Maria del Pi contains one of the world's largest rose windows, which is a magnificent sight to behold! Beyond the church's undeniable beauty and calm praying space, you'll find a small museum and treasury, which claims to contain a piece from Christ's crown of thorns. Whether that is the case or not has yet to be determined, but why not go and see for yourself? Basílica de Santa María del Mar Built back in the 1300s, the Basilica de Santa María del Mar is a testament to the beauty of the Catalan Gothic style. And what a style it is, with simple symmetry accentuating harmony. Its massive, stunning windows bathe the interior with light, which perfectly contrasts the weighty and somewhat daunting exterior design. A calm, quiet space in comparison to the loud, awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia, it's the perfect place to visit if you're not one for crowds. Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús Sitting atop Barcelona's Tibidabo Mountain, the tallest hill in the city, you'll find the Templo Expiatorio del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús. One of the more recent creations on this list, having been built between 1902 and 1961 by father and son Enric and Josep Sagnier, it's no less beautiful and deserving of a visit. With elements of Neo-Byzantine, Neo-Romanesque, and Neo-Gothic elements, it's a wonderful and unique mix you won't find anywhere else. On the outside, you'll admire its intricate spires and the statue of Jesus that looks out over the city. On the inside, gaze up at its massive dome. La Catedral de Barcelona Arguably Barcelona's second most recognizable church, the Catedral de Barcelona is one of the city's largest tourist attractions. Standing tall in the city's delightful Gothic Quarter, only something as unique and alien as the Sagrada Familia can overshadow its beauty. You can even ascend to the top of the cathedral and look over the district from up on high. Built over the course of 150 years, you can see the different eras and styles within its design. Make sure to visit the crypt of Saint Eulalia, a prominent Christian martyr and the namesake for the church's alternative name, the Cathedral of Santa Eulalia. Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Pedralbes Tucked away from Barcelona's tourist-heavy center, you'll find the Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Pedralbes. Another of the city's 14-century creations, its simple design was ordained by the king at the time, Jaume II. Its Catalan Gothic trappings mimic the other churches on this list built during the same period. However, what Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Pedralbes does boast is beautiful gardens surrounding the entire building. So, if you want to add a nice, green stroll to your visit, it's worth checking out. Sant Pau del Camp In the free-spirited district of El Raval, you'll find the oldest church in the entire city. Built over 1200 years ago, the Sant Pau del Camp started life as a Benedictine monastery, but has since become a place of worship for many in Barcelona. Given its age, it's the only church of its kind in the city, and has been restored multiple times. Having witnessed civil war, conflicts, and invasions, it's no wonder the church has needed some TLC over the years. It might not top this list for its fancy design or prominence, but it's absolutely one to visit for its history. Santa Maria de Montserrat This final entry might be a bit of a cheat as it's not technically in Barcelona, but just a short trip away, the Santa Maria de Montserrat absolutely deserves to be seen. You can make your own way there on public transport, but we'd recommend taking a stress-free guided tour up the mountain. Santa Maria de Montserrat is a monastery founded in the 11th century and rebuilt between the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, it still functions with over 70 monks and is notable for enshrining the image of the Virgin of Montserrat. You can head inside and look around, though, given its popularity, you may be waiting some time unless you get there early. There's also a nearby museum, where you can learn about the church's history. Easily one of the best churches in Barcelona, if you allow a little wiggle room on the subject. And that's our list of the best churches in Barcelona! Looking for more things to do and see on your vacation to the Catalan capital? Check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can experience all of Barcelona's best bits when and how you want.
Dom Bewley
Best time to visit Barcelona
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The Best Time to Visit Barcelona

The bustling cityscape of Barcelona changes quite significantly in character depending on the time you choose to visit. At her peak, she’s lively and thriving, her streets brimming with life and soaked in sunshine. Other times, she cools off into a more modest and tranquil metropolis, which some might say is when she shows her true colors. Such a mercurial nature naturally brings into question when the best time to visit Barcelona may be. As with most things, there is no single clear-cut answer to this, as the factors that constitute the ideal time to visit will differ from person to person. Instead, we’ll run you through each major period of time to help you decide that for yourself.   January & February Temperatures: 41 - 73°F • Average Rainfall: 3 - 5 days/mth • Sea Temperature: 55 - 57°F Barcelona ushers in the new year rather modestly. Having seen off both the final waves of holiday season tourists, many visitors and locals alike now turn their attention toward ski season. With average temperatures at their coolest, this is the ideal time to visit one of the many great alpine resorts just a few hours out of the city. Those who aren’t visiting for the ski season may also enjoy some of the local events, such as the Cavalcada de Reis and Tres Tombs parade, Chinese New Year, the Santa Eulàlia festival and the Llum BCN festival.   March & April The referenced media source is missing and needs to be re-embedded. Temperatures: 46 - 65°F • Average Rainfall: 4 - 5 days/mth • Sea Temperature: 57 - 59°F Spring in Barcelona is much the same as in most destinations. The days begin to warm up somewhat, while still offering mostly mild temperatures of around 40 – 60°F. Given the still cool weather and fairly regular rainfall, this may not yet be the best time for a dip in the Mediterranean, but some consider it a fantastic time to visit. Throughout the spring months, you can expect to be able to participate in a number of events such as Sant Medir, the International Vintage Car Rally, the Barcelona Marathon, the Barcelona Beer Festival, La Diada de Sant Jordi, La Feria de Abril and, of course, Easter.   May & June Temperatures: 57 - 79°F • Average Rainfall: 3 - 5 days/mth • Sea Temperature: 64 - 70°F These two months mark the bridge between spring and summer, and mark the first real ‘shoulder season’ for Barcelona. Temperatures begin to climb just slightly, with averages resting around the low- to mid-60s. Rainfall is typically at its highest in May, but begins to drop significantly come June. Visiting during this time will mean you’ll get to experience Barcelona ahead of the high-season crowds, while also getting some pretty decent weather. The city will be more lively than during the winter months, without being overcrowded. Given the often pleasant weather and lower numbers of tourists, many consider this to be the best time to visit Barcelona. Events during this period include the Night of the Museums, Primavera Sound Festival, the nearby Girona Flower Festival, Sónar Festival, the Feast of Sant Joan and Barcelona’s Pride Festival.   July & August Temperatures: 70 - 84°F • Average Rainfall: 2 - 5 days/mth • Sea Temperature: 75 - 79°F The height of summer is when Barcelona truly thrives – some might say a little too much. This is when the city experiences its hottest and most humid days, with averages between 70 and 85°F both day and night. Barcelona is at its liveliest during this period, with just about every street, bar, café, restaurant and attraction bustling with visitors. For many, summer is truly the perfect time to visit Barcelona thanks to its buzzing ambience and fantastic weather. For others, the crowds and heat make for a less than ideal experience, and in fact many locals take this opportunity to relocate to more moderate climates for some time. Should you choose to visit in summer, be sure to make your plans and book your attractions well ahead of time. Throughout the summer months, you can expect such events as Festival Cruïlla, Barcelona Beach Festival, Rock Fest Barcelona, Festa Major del Raval, Gràcia Festival, El Grec and the Sants Festival. For music lovers and those who just enjoy a good social atmosphere, this is the time to come!   September & October Temperatures: 58 - 79°F • Average Rainfall: 5 - 6 days/mth • Sea Temperature: 72 - 75°F As summer draws to a close, the largest droves of tourists begin to vacate Barcelona, while many locals make their return for the increasingly more forgiving temperatures. Thus the city enters into its second shoulder season, which sees it continue to thrive with the remaining waves of visitors while returning to a somewhat more tranquil state. Barcelona isn’t done with the festivities just yet, though. In fact, in many ways it’s just getting started. Notable events in September and October include BAM Festival, Festa Major de Sant Miquel/Poblenou/La Ribera/La Rambla, La Diada, Sitges Film Festival, Mercat de Mercats and the Fiesta Nacional de España.   November & December Temperatures: 41 - 64°F • Average Rainfall: 4 - 5 days/mth • Sea Temperature: 61 - 64°F As the days begin to cool further and Barcelona ushers in the winter season, the Catalan capital truly takes on a new form. In the absence of the bustling and humid summer months, the city embraces the final fruits of fall and the coming of winter. This is when the locals truly come together to bring some much needed warmth to the cooler months. November sees Barcelona celebrate All Saints’ Day and La Castanyada, in remembrance of passed loved ones, in tribute to the saints of the Catholic religion, and in celebration of the autumnal produce of fall. This is also the prime period for many music and cinema fans, with an impressive array of film and music festivals running throughout the month. December, of course, is truly a transformation for Barcelona. Early in the month, the city blooms in celebration of Constitution Day, before the festivities make way for the holiday season. And make way they must, for the Christmas period in Barcelona is truly a sight to behold. For many, this is truly the best time to visit Barcelona, with its streets lit up with merry lights and decorations and lined with countless market stalls selling all manner of festive fare.   Wrapping Up Clearly, the beating heart of Catalonia has plenty to offer year-round for all different types of travelers. Some may prefer to visit during peak season to experience the city at its liveliest, while others may prefer the quieter months to see the city in its more authentic state, while others still may prefer to visit for specific events. Whatever your travel preferences may be, it’s up to you to decide when may be the best time to visit Barcelona. However, so as not to end on a vague conclusion, many regular tourists to the region agree that spring and fall are ideal for seeing the city at its most genuine, in the absence of the summertime rush.
Robert Heaney
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Romantic Things to do in Barcelona

Spain is without a doubt one of the most romantic countries in Europe, filled with glorious food, stunning architecture and idyllic beaches. Most popular with tourists is Barcelona, with thousands of vacationers flocking to the Catalonian capital each month. So, it’s no surprise that you’re looking to plan a romantic vacation to Barcelona. Here we’ve put together a list of the most popular attractions and activities when searching for romantic things to do in Barcelona, including... La Sagrada Familia Casa Batlló La Pedrera Park Güell Moco Museum Erotic Museum La Boqueria Market Turó de la Rovira and more.... 1. La Sagrada Familia If Barcelona is famous for one thing, it’s the stunning architectural work of Antoni Gaudí. With his masterpieces dotted across the city, it would be hard to miss a visit to at least one of them. La Sagrada Familia, perhaps the most famous landmark in Spain, is a must for visitors in Barcelona and it’s sure to get those sparks flying. Take a guided tour around the basilica, where you can learn about the building's different facades and the fascinating history behind this awe-inspiring building, which is still yet to be completed! If you have a spare moment, taking a lift to the top of the building will offer you unforgettable views of Barcelona from one of the tallest churches in the world.A few of Gaudi’s other creations include Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, both of which are located on Passeig de Gràcia, so pay them a visit if you’re passing. 2. Park Güell Park Güell is the perfect place to take a romantic stroll. Overflowing with yet more of Gaudi’s modernist architectural works, spending a few hours here and taking a guided tour is definitely worth your time. 3. Moco Museum A visit to a museum or two won’t go a miss on your romantic getaway. The Moco Museum is an independent museum full of modern and contemporary art that is sure to blow your mind. Check out the incredible immersive exhibitions – the perfect place to snap that couple's pic to send to the family group chat. 4. Erotic Museum Another popular option, perhaps not one for the group chat, is the Erotic Museum of Barcelona. Centrally located on La Rambla, why not swing by for a bit of a sexy history lesson? Here, you’ll explore the unusual history and culture of eroticism through playful exhibits and unique artifacts. This is definitely one for a passionate adventure in Barcelona. 5. La Boqueria Market This bustling market can be found in the heart of Barcelona. From colourful sweets and fresh fruit to jamón ibérico and spices and nuts, this market is a foodie's dream. Popular with locals and visitors alike, La Boqueria is a treat for all senses so dive right in to find the best deals around. As well as the ingredients listed above, there’s plenty of top-notch tapas bars where you can sample the market’s fresh produce right then and there. 6. Tapas, Sangria and more Evenings in Barcelona with your other half are undoubtedly best spent enjoying scrumptious food and sipping on the Spanish classic, sangria. We suggest heading to the Gothic Quarter or venturing along the marina, where you’ll find hundreds of bars and restaurants offering up the tastiest paella and tapas. 7. Turó de la Rovira Or, if you fancy something a bit more homemade, make the trek to Turó de la Rovira, also known as the Bunkers del Carmel, and pack a picnic. Once used as a strategic defence site during the Spanish Civil War, this incredible viewpoint sits 262 meters above sea level, giving unparalleled views of the city. Be warned, it’s a bit of a hike, but cosying up to watch the sunset with a glass of sangria in hand doesn’t sound like a bad idea, right? 8. Old Town and Gothic Quarter Still looking for activities to inspire love? Wander around the streets of Barcelona on an Old Town and Gothic Quarter Tour. Take in the charm and character of the Cuitat Vella and explore the city’s rich history and culture as you navigate the narrow streets with a knowledgeable guide. You’ll find plenty of hidden gems along the way too so keep your eyes peeled. Save on Attraction Admission So there you have it –- a few romantic things to do in Barcelona that are guaranteed to give off those date night vibes so you can fall in love all over again! A few of these Barcelona attractions are included on the All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass with Go City®, so check out what options we have to save on attraction admission.
Cara Merren

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