Sagrada Familia

Sagrada Família, officially known as the Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, is a large unfinished Roman Catholic church in Barcelona, Spain. Designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí (1852–1926), his work on the building is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On 7 November 2010, Pope Benedict XVI consecrated the church and proclaimed it a minor basilica.

History

The construction of Sagrada Família began in 1882, initially under the direction of architect Francisco de Paula del Villar. After a disagreement, Gaudí took over as chief architect in 1883. Gaudí transformed the project with his architectural and engineering style—combining Gothic and curvilinear Art Nouveau forms. Gaudí devoted the remainder of his life to the project, and at the time of his death in 1926, less than a quarter of the project was complete.

Architecture

Sagrada Família's design consists of a total of eighteen spires, representing in ascending order of height the Twelve Apostles, the Virgin Mary, the four Evangelists, and, tallest of all, Jesus Christ. Gaudí's original design calls for a church 95 meters long and 60 meters wide, able to seat 13,000 people. The central spire of Jesus Christ is to be surmounted by a giant cross; the total height of which will be 170 meters. The church presents an excellent example of Gaudí's unique style, combining elements of Gothic and Art Nouveau forms with ambitious structural columns and richly decorated facades.

Construction and Completion

Construction of Sagrada Família is not supported by any government or official church sources. Private donations fund the construction, which was interrupted by the Spanish Civil War—only to resume intermittent progress in the 1950s. Construction passed the midpoint in 2010 with some of the project's greatest challenges remaining and an anticipated completion date of 2026, the centenary of Gaudí's death.

Cultural Impact

The Sagrada Família has become a symbol of Barcelona and Catalan identity as much as for its religious significance. It attracts millions of tourists every year, who marvel at its intricate facades and the stunning play of light within its interior spaces. The church also serves as a place of worship, with Masses and other religious ceremonies held in its completed sections.

Controversies

The construction of Sagrada Família has not been without controversy. Critics have argued about the continuation of construction after Gaudí's death, questioning the interpretation of Gaudí's original designs and the modern techniques used. Despite these controversies, the Sagrada Família remains a testament to Gaudí's vision and Barcelona's dedication to its completion.

See Also

• Antoni Gaudí
• Gothic architecture
• Art Nouveau
• Roman Catholicism in Spain
• UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Spain