Sagrada Família

Basílica de la Sagrada Família

Gaudí’s lifelong masterpiece, a modernist cathedral under construction for more than 140 years. With the 172.5-metre Tower of Jesus Christ completed in 2026, it became the tallest church in the world.

Construction of the Sagrada Família began in 1882. In 1883, the 31-year-old Gaudí took over the project and devoted the remaining 43 years of his life to it. When he died in 1926, only one bell tower had been finished. The church has been funded by donations and ticket sales ever since. In 2010 it was consecrated as a minor basilica by the Pope. In 2026, the centenary of Gaudí’s death, the central Tower of Jesus Christ was completed at 172.5 metres, surpassing Ulm Minster to become the tallest church in the world. Each of the three facades has its own theme. The east “Nativity Facade,” overseen personally by Gaudí, is carved with dense, cave-like detail. The west “Passion Facade,” by Subirachs, takes a sharp-edged, modern sculptural approach. The south “Glory Facade” is still under construction. The interior is the most striking part of the basilica. Tree-like branching columns support vaults 45 metres high, creating a forest-like space, and stained glass shifts colour as the sunlight moves. Tickets cost about €26 with an audio guide, and the tower climb costs about €36. Timed tickets can only be booked on the official site, sagradafamilia.org, and should be reserved 1–2 weeks ahead in peak season. Some time slots each month offer free or discounted entry. For the tower, you can choose the Nativity or Passion tower. Take the lift up and the spiral staircase down. Children under six cannot climb the towers, and access is closed in rain or strong wind. Dress modestly with shoulders covered and skirts or trousers below the knee. Large luggage is not allowed through security. Exit Sagrada Família station on metro lines L2 or L5 and you are there. For a panoramic photo, head to Plaça de Gaudí on the east side, where the small pond gives the best reflections.

Opening hours

Nov–Feb 09:00–18:00; Mar and Oct 09:00–19:00; Apr–Sep 09:00–20:00; Sundays open at 10:30

World Heritage · Gaudí · Church · Modernism · Reservations required

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