Sagrada Familia, Roman Catholic basilica in Eixample, Barcelona, Spain
The Sagrada Família is a Catholic basilica under construction in the Eixample neighborhood of Barcelona. Columns shaped like tree trunks rise through the interior, and three main facades display biblical scenes carved into stone.
Construction began in 1882 following a neo-Gothic design, but Antoni Gaudí took over a year later and created an entirely new vision. After his death in 1926, other architects continued the work using his plans and models.
Each morning, local worshipers gather for Mass in the side chapels while thousands of travelers move through the nave. Residents see the building as a living part of their identity and often return to watch the progress.
Work continues with a planned finish in 2026, and guided tours run daily between 9 AM and 8 PM. Buying tickets online ahead of time helps avoid long waits at the entrance.
When complete, 18 towers will represent the twelve apostles, four evangelists, the Virgin Mary, and Jesus Christ. The central tower will stand as the tallest church structure in the world, one meter taller than Montjuïc hill.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
