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Why Visit Sagrada Familia

It might not come as a surprise that the symbol and the most visited attraction in Barcelona (about 5 million visitors per year) is the extraordinary Basilica de la Sagrada Família or the Church of The Holy Family.

Even though this glorious edifice is not finished yet, the majestic church has already risen high above Barcelona for more than a century and invites to reveal its secrets.

The construction, started in 1882, is 70% finished by now and planned to be complete by 2026, the centennial of the death of its creator. Being the masterpiece of the famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, Sagrada Família is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with other Gaudí works in Barcelona.

Breathtaking from both the in and outside, the impressive building is rich in unexpected details and colors. Inspired by the mother-nature, Gaudi claimed the basilica a symbol of the unity of human and nature, using some natural motifs in the design.

The play of light and shadows in the interior make the experience even more unique and memorable. The stained glass windows reflect colors on the unusually shaped pillars, columns, and walls, decorated with colorful mosaic.

Various colors light up spaces, making it absolutely magical. Naturally, the queue for entering Sagrada Familia is pretty long, so it is recommended to buy the tickets in advance.

When the church is finished, the tallest tower will reach 172.5 meters, which will make Sagrada Familia one of the largest Roman Catholic churches ever built.

Despite the ongoing building process, the Roman Catholic church holds religious ceremonies and masses throughout the year.