La Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks in the world. Designed by the renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, this incredible basilica is still under construction and attracts millions of visitors every year. But did you know that there are many interesting and fun facts about La Sagrada Familia that you may not have heard before? In this article, we will share 10 fun facts about La Sagrada Familia that will make your visit even more exciting.

Construction of the Sagrada Familia Began in 1882

Construction of the Sagrada Familia began in 1882 under the direction of the architect Francisco de Paula del Villar. However, after only one year, Gaudí took over the project and completely transformed the original design.

The Sagrada Familia is Still Under Construction

Despite being under construction for over 140 years, the Sagrada Familia is still not finished. The current estimated completion date is 2026.

Gaudí Died Before the Completion of the Sagrada Familia

Sadly, Gaudí died before the completion of the Sagrada Familia. He was struck by a tram in 1926 and died three days later. He is buried in the crypt of the basilica.

The Basilica Has Three Facades

The Sagrada Familia has three facades that represent different moments in the life of Jesus Christ: the Nativity facade, the Passion facade, and the Glory facade.

The Nativity Facade is the Oldest Part of the Basilica

The Nativity facade, which faces east, is the oldest part of the Sagrada Familia. It was completed under the direction of Gaudí himself and was the only facade that was partially completed during his lifetime.

The Passion Facade is More Austere

The Passion facade, which faces west, is much more austere than the Nativity facade. It was designed by a different architect, Josep Maria Subirachs, and was completed in the 1980s.

The Glory Facade is Still Under Construction

The Glory facade, which faces south, is still under construction. It is the largest and most complex of the three facades and is expected to be completed by 2022.

The Basilica Has 18 Towers

When completed, the Sagrada Familia will have a total of 18 towers. Twelve of the towers will represent the apostles, four will represent the evangelists, one will represent the Virgin Mary, and one will represent Jesus Christ.

The Basilica Combines Different Architectural Styles

The Sagrada Familia combines different architectural styles, including Gothic, Art Nouveau, and Modernisme. This mix of styles gives the basilica a unique and eclectic appearance.

The Basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 2005, the Sagrada Familia was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This designation recognizes the basilica's cultural and historical significance and ensures its preservation for future generations.

Conclusion:

La Sagrada Familia is an incredible landmark that continues to captivate and inspire visitors from around the world. These 10 fun facts about the basilica demonstrate the rich history and cultural significance of this unique architectural masterpiece. From its long construction period to its three facades and 18 towers, the Sagrada Familia is full of surprises and fascinating details. If you're planning a trip to Barcelona, be sure to add a Sagrada Familia Tour to your itinerary and discover the beauty and wonder of this iconic basilica.

Ref: https://www.djjmeets.com/blogs/84033/10-Fun-Facts-About-La-Sagrada-Familia