The Sagrada Família Takes Its Final Shape
3 days ago
- #Barcelona
- #Gaudí
- #architecture
- The Sagrada Família is an unfinished church in Barcelona, designed by Antoni Gaudí, which will soon become the tallest church in the world.
- Construction began in 1882 and has been ongoing for over a century, with Gaudí spending 43 years on the project before his death in 1926.
- The church is funded by visitor fees and donations, making it one of the few self-sustaining large construction projects globally.
- Gaudí's design features 18 towers, with the Jesus tower being the tallest, and incorporates organic shapes inspired by nature.
- Modern construction techniques, including digital tools and aerospace software, have accelerated progress in recent years under chief architect Jordi Faulí.
- The church attracts millions of visitors annually, making it the most popular tourist attraction on the Iberian Peninsula.
- Despite its popularity, the project faces criticism for diverging from Gaudí's original vision and for its impact on local residents due to expansion plans.
- The completion of the Jesus tower's cross, a significant milestone, is expected by the end of 2025, marking the centenary of Gaudí's death.
- The Sagrada Família's design combines religious symbolism with innovative architectural forms, such as hyperboloids and paraboloids.
- The church's future includes completing the remaining façades and towers, though debates continue about its purpose in a less religious modern Barcelona.