Spain & Cruise 2024

Ah, back at my favorite building in the world. The Sagrada Familia is an act of worship in architecture. The towers opened days after the last time we were there, so I was so excited to get to go up them. You can only choose between the Nativity or Passion Tower at this time, and I chose the Passion tower after research. It did not disappoint. What a joy to get up close to Gaudi's whimsical yet profound elements that are hard to see from below.

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The Passion Tower of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is one of the most striking elements of this iconic basilica, designed by the visionary architect Antoni Gaudí. The tower is part of the Passion façade, which depicts the suffering, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. This façade is intentionally more austere and stark than the Nativity façade on the opposite side of the church, reflecting the somber theme of Christ's Passion.

The Passion Tower rises dramatically, punctuated by angular, almost skeletal architectural elements that convey the brutality and emotion of the Passion story. Sculptures by Josep Maria Subirachs adorn the façade, including scenes of the Last Supper, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection, offering a contemporary interpretation that contrasts with Gaudí's more ornate and fluid aesthetic. The tower itself offers visitors the opportunity to ascend, providing breathtaking views of Barcelona and a closer look at the intricate details of Gaudí's design.

Work on the Sagrada Familia began in 1882, and it remains under construction, a testament to its grand scale and the meticulous care put into its realization. The Passion Tower, completed in more recent phases of construction, continues to draw visitors from around the world, captivated by its profound symbolism and architectural innovation.

---Les mer