Antoni Gaudí envisioned the Sagrada Família as a combination of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles. Using a variety of organic forms, Gaudí aimed to create a structure that harmonized nature and architecture. It is open to tourists throughout the year, with different opening hours depending on the period. It is advisable to book your tickets online because the entries are scheduled in time slots.
For those wanting to dive deeper in the history of this amazing building and get the necessary context to really enjoy its finer details, consider taking a guided tour.
For individuals with mobility issues, the Sagrada Familia is fully enjoyable by people with any need, except for its towers, which require a good amount of steps to get back to ground floor.
Construction of the Sagrada Família began in 1882 under architect Francisco de Paula del Villar before Gaudí took over the project in 1883. Gaudí dedicated the latter part of his life solely to this monumental task. After his death in 1926, construction continued based on his detailed models and plans.
Significant milestones include the completion of the Nativity facade in 1935 and the progress made on the Passion facade in the late 20th century. By 2010, key elements like the nave and main altar had been completed, allowing for consecration by Pope Benedict XVI.
The construction of the Sagrada Familia has faced numerous challenges, including political turmoil, funding issues, and technical difficulties. The Spanish Civil War in the 1930s saw Gaudí's original plans and models largely destroyed, necessitating reconstruction based on surviving documents and interpretations by subsequent architects.
Travelers can use the Barcelona Metro or city buses. The Metro lines L2 (purple) and L5 (blue) both stop at the Sagrada Familia station, which is right next to the basilica. Multiple bus lines also stop close by, making it easy to reach by public transport.
Sagrada Familia is mostly accessible for people with limited mobility. The main areas have ramps and elevators. Accessible restrooms are available inside. The towers, however, are not accessible for visitors using wheelchairs or those with serious mobility issues. More details are available for wheelchair access and accessibility at Sagrada Familia.
No, but there are several paid parking garages nearby if you are planning on getting there by car.
Yes, all the companies offering hop-on hop-off bus services in Barcelona have a stop near the Sagrada Familia, since it is one of the main attractions of the city.