Barcelona, the intoxicating capital of Catalonia, is a beautiful city of great diversity in Spain and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, rich in cultural heritage, renowned architectural wonders and some of the most incredible attractions in the world. Some years ago, not many tourists would have thought of this lively city as an attractive getaway for the holidays or adventurous expeditions, however, nowadays, things have changed for the better for this city and millions of visitors visit Barcelona each year, making it the fourth most visited tourist destination in the world.
An important characteristic of the city is that it combines structural designs of different periods, which is clearly seen in some of the city’s most appealing constructions, including the Sagrada Familia and the Cathedral of Tibidabo, about which we are going to speak in today’s post.
La Sagrada Familia (Holy Family Church)
Topping the list of Barcelona’s must-see attractions is the majestic church of La Sagrada Familia, designed by Antoni Gaudi, Barcelona’s most famous architect, over a hundred years ago and the only cathedral in the world still being built. It was in 1822 when the original foundation stone was laid and it is hoped that the cathedral will be completely finished in 2026 for the 100th anniversary of Gaudi’s death in 1926.
The church survived during the Spanish Civil War, when many churches were burned, this is why it’s seen as a kind of symbol for the city of Barcelona. The church has three facades, each with three porches. Four towers on each of the three facades represent twelve apostles and reach a height of 90 to 120 meters. When finished, the Sagrada Familia will have a total of 18 towers.
Even though the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia is far from finished, it remains one of the most visited tourist attractions in Barcelona. People can visit the crypt, where Gaudi is buries, as well as the transept and central nave with its giant, tree-like pillars and unique vaulting. The truly fabulous towers can also be visited. An elevator and a long walk will lead you to the top of a tower from where opens a magnificent view over Barcelona. In 2012, the splendid interior was completed and it’s now open to public. Opening hours: October – March: 09:00 – 18:00; April – September: 09:00 – 20:00, 01 January and 06 January: 09:00 – 14:00. Admission is €13.
Cathedral of Tibidabo
Another beautiful and valuable architectural wonder in Barcelona is the beautiful Tibidabo Cathedral del Sagrad Cor (Church of the Sacred Heart) that looks down on the city from its tallest peak, Mount Tibidabo. Located in a height of more than 500 m, the church was built between 1902 and 1961 after an eclectic design by Enric Sagnier I Villavecchia. The architectural style of the cathedral can be described as a fusion of Modernista elements and neogothic styles. To many visitors it shows similarly to the basilica de Sacre-Coeur in Paris or the Sacro Cuore di Gesu in Rome.
The highlights of the church include: the main front to the crypt, featuring the sculptures of Eusebio Arnau; the central interior mosaic with three scenes, the Chapel of the Perpetual Adoration, centered on an original monstrance and the al fresco painting of the Last Supper; the Hermitage, constructed in 1886; the image of Saint Michael, found on the keystone of the central door in the façade; and the twelve Apostles, reached by an interior stairway in the central tower, boasting great stone statues by Jose Miret.
Entrance to the cathedral is free of charge, but for 2 Euros an elevator will take you to the first viewing platform. If you are not afraid of heights, make sure to climb the stairs to the top of the cathedral at 548 meters above sea to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city and beyond.
At night the church is wonderfully illuminated and is seen from almost every corner of the city.
