What is the history behind the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona?

The Sagrada Familia is a basilica located in Barcelona, Spain, and is one of the city's most famous landmarks. Designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, the construction of the Sagrada Familia began in 1882 and continues to this day, making it one of the longest-running construction projects in the world. Gaudí dedicated the last 15 years of his life to the project, and after his death in 1926, construction was continued by other architects.

The Sagrada Familia is a unique piece of architecture, combining Gothic and Art Nouveau styles with Gaudí's personal touches. The basilica is known for its intricate façade, which features intricate sculptures and religious scenes, as well as its towering spires that reach up to 170 meters in height.

The construction of the Sagrada Familia has been plagued by setbacks, including funding issues, a fire that destroyed some of Gaudí's original plans and models, and the Spanish Civil War, which halted construction for several years. Despite these challenges, work on the basilica has continued, and it is expected to be completed in 2026, marking the centennial of Gaudí's death.

Today, the Sagrada Familia is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona, drawing millions of visitors each year. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its unique architectural and cultural significance.