Inside the Sagrada Familia

The Sagrada Familia is considered the most famous symbol of Barcelona, but for catalan people is more than that, is a reference of their own culture. Because of its unique conception and design, the Sagrada Familia is considered Gaudi’s master piece, and when he died before the construction ended, the city of Barcelona took his place and the project goes on thanks the donation of citizens of the city and people all around the world.

Inside the Sagrada Familia

During the last years, the inner part of the Sagrada Familia has revealed its secrets. The church is huge inside (one of the reasons why in July 2010 the pope himself declared to the status of Basilica) and the Gothic style mixed with Gaudi’s perspective of nature and forms leaves a structure based on trees holding the whole building, and the spectacular height really takes out the breath.

Inside the Sagrada Familia

The role of the light, combined with the columns and windows is spectacular. The pillars and arches combined transform the interior of the temple into a stone forest of palm trees, and the light streaming in through large windows tint with color all the church.

One of the most impressive concepts about the columns are the colors and the idea of using different materials to combine and mix. The longest and thickest columns are made of red porphyry, a very hard volcanic rock. 

Inside the Sagrada Familia

The dark, somewhat smaller pillars are made of basalt, granite columns supporting the lighter and the outermost row of pillars in the church building consist of a relatively soft rock from the mountain of Barcelona, Montjuïc.

Don’t forget to look closer the altar, decorated with vines and grapes of a vine, as Gaudi’s only concession to the traditional church design. Behind the altar are the organ pipes, which, although they have very large dimensions, represent very delicate work.

Inside the Sagrada Familia

In summary, a “must see” if you are in Barcelona. The Sagrada Familia is open from 9h to 20h from April to September, and from 9h to 18h the rest of the year. But beware! the queues are huge, so its not a bad idea to buy a ticket online.