This is one of the most famous and visited attractions of Barcelona.

The idea to build a new temple belonged to religious organization which aim was to quit dechristianization of Barcelona. This process (dechristianization) began as a result of industrialization and increased level of education of Catalan citizens. The organization bought a plot of land in the new district Eixample in 1877. The architect Francisco de Paula del Villar designed neo-gothic temple and was in charge of the building which began in 1882. In a year, modernist Antonio Gaudi became the leading architect of the temple. From this moment he devoted much of his time to the construction of Sagrada Familia. Instead of sticking to his original plans, Gaudi has harshly changed the design. Neo-gothic style was converted into Gaudi’s modern which was based on natural forms. When he died in 1926 only one frontage (Navity Facade), one tower, exedrae and crypt were finished, however many drafts and plans of future temple were left.

After Gaudi’s death the building of the temple was slowed down due to the lack of money and the start of the civil war. The process resumed in the middle of 1950s and up to the present time two frontages and eight towers have been finished. Modern technologies allowed architects to hasten the building and, as a result, Sagrada Familia will be finished in 2026, one century after Gaudi’s death.

When the construction of the building is finished, Sagrada Familia will have in total eighteen towers. Four towers at every of three frontages symbolize twelve

apostles. Four more towers represent four evangelists. They will circle the biggest and the highest tower devoted to Jesus Christ. The last tower above apse will be devoted to the Virgin Mary.

The first frontage, directed to the east, is known as Navity Facade. It was accomplished by Gaudi and decorated in baroque style with animals’ and plants’ motifs.

Opposite there is Passion Façade. Its construction began in 1954, however sculptures which depicted crucified Jesus Christ were added only in 1987. Have just been erected, abstract figures caused a storm of indignation as their style is very different from Gaudi’s. The third and the most monumental is Glory Façade. Its building began in 2002 and is still continuing. This frontage at the south part of the temple is going to depict life and death.

Despite the fact that Sagrada Familia is not ready yet a lot of travelers from the whole world visit this remarkable temple. You can go to the crypt where Gaudi was buried and see central nave with giant arborescent columns and breathtaking domes. In the museum of the temple you will find out about the history of the building and its great architect. Also you can visit towers. Elevator and a long walk will lead you to the top of the tower, where you will be able to enjoy wonderful view of Barcelona.