Friday, May 13, 2011

La Sagrada Familia

Antoni Gaudí, born in 1852, was the mad scientist of the 19th and 20th centuries. His works were so grandiose that his name became synonymous with over the top decoration. Barcelona was Gaudis home territory covered with his buildings and parks. Gaudí’s distinct modern touch can be seen all around Barcelona but his Pièce de résistance was his Sagrada Familia, a massive cathedral in the Exiample, a district of Barcelona.



 La Sagrada Familia is a Herculean cathedral, construction for which began in 1883.  It offers a sacred sanctuary. The sheer size of the building is awe inspiring, with its towers reaching towards heaven. Those that witness this behemoth seem to feel the very touch of god. The soothing carvings of various religious figures lend a spiritual protection to those who seek it. Inside the colossal structure lies a vaulted ceiling that seems to go on forever, along with a strange sharp architecture that juts out from the walls  which, although frightening gives off a strong, protective feeling. The stained glass windows allow a calming light to wash over the Cathedral’s visitors. But you may be surprised to hear that La Sagrada isn’t yet finished, and won’t be until at least 2026. Gaudi never lived to see the end of his masterpiece, the cathedral although started over a century ago is still under construction to this day. The original plans entail several more towers reaching to the heavens, a magnificent sight that will radiate a sense of peace throughout the city.

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