The Sagrada Familia, Antonio Gaudí’s most important work in Barcelona

More than 135 years after the first stone was laid, the building is still under construction. The first proposal for the structure was put forward in 1882 by Francisco de Paula de Villar, a project made up of designs that ultimately bore no resemblance to the basilica’s final appearance. Paula de Villar had mapped out a basilica abounding in neo-Gothic elements, but, in the end – due to various setbacks and misunderstandings – he was relieved of his duties one year later and the project was handed over to Antonio Gaudí, a promising architect who changed the direction of the construction.

Light is another fundamental element in the basilica, as it serves not simply as illumination, but also to create spaces overflowing with significance in which to fully appreciate the brilliance of their architect. One of the best examples of this is the way in which its various doors are lit. The rising sun at dawn lights up the door of the Nativity, symbolising birth, while the Passion Door is placed so as to catch the sun as it sets, thus symbolising death. Lastly, there is the Gloria façade, which receives sunlight the whole day through, lighting up the entire nave in a symbolic rendering of the Resurrection. Construction work on the Sagrada Familia Basilica is currently scheduled for completion in 2026, but you can already visit many parts of this house of worship and discover its secrets. What are you waiting for?