The Sagrada Familia: Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece

The Sagrada Familia is an iconic landmark in Barcelona, Spain. It is an unfinished Roman Catholic church designed by Antoni Gaudí, one of the most famous architects of the 20th century. The church has been under construction since 1882 and is not expected to be completed until 2026. I would take this estimate of completion with a pinch of salt though, given that the church has been under construction well over hundred years. I have visited Sagrada Família several times over the years (first time in 2005), and even though it's one of the most popular and crowded tourist destinations in Barcelona it truly is breathtaking and well worth the visit.

The Sagrada Familia is an expression of Gaudí's unique style, which is characterized by its organic forms and its use of natural materials. The church is decorated with intricate sculptures and stained glass windows, and its towers are topped with spires that resemble trees.

The Sagrada Familia is a popular tourist destination, and it is estimated that over 3 million people visit the church each year. The church is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The construction of the Sagrada Familia has been a long and challenging process. The church has been funded by private donations, and there have been times when construction has had to be halted due to lack of funds. However, the construction of the church is still ongoing, and it is expected to be completed in 2026, the 100th anniversary of Gaudí's death.

Here are some tips for visiting the Sagrada Familia:

• Buy your tickets in advance, especially if you are visiting during the peak season.
• Allow at least 2 hours to visit the church.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be doing a lot of walking.
• Take a guided tour to learn more about the history and architecture of the church.
• Be respectful of the religious significance of the church.
• If you have a chance, it's definitely worth climbing up to the towers. The views over the city are marvellous, and you will also see the decorations on the towers much better. If you are afraid of heights, the height might be break a sweat for you though.

The Sagrada Familia is a truly unique and awe-inspiring building. It is a testament to the genius of Antoni Gaudí and the dedication of the people who have worked to bring his vision to life. It is a must-see for any visitor to Barcelona.

Here are some additional facts about the Sagrada Familia:

• The church is dedicated to the Holy Family, and its design is inspired by nature.
• The church has 18 towers, each of which represents a different saint or biblical figure.
• The tallest tower, which is still under construction, will be 172 meters (564 feet) tall.
• The Sagrada Familia is expected to cost over €4.5 billion to complete.

Despite its long and challenging construction process, the Sagrada Familia is a symbol of hope and renewal for the people of Barcelona. It is a reminder that even the most ambitious dreams can be achieved if we work together.