Gaudi's Life Work: A Guide for First-Time Visitors
140 Years Under Construction
Antoni Gaudi received the Sagrada Familia commission in 1883, aged 31. He spent the remaining 43 years of his life on the project, refusing other commissions and eventually living on site. When he was struck and killed by a tram in 1926, the building was roughly 25% complete. Construction was interrupted by the Spanish Civil War, when his original plans and models were destroyed. Work has continued since 1952 using reconstructed drawings and computer modelling. Completion is expected around 2033 — Gaudi centenary — when it will be the tallest church in the world at 172 metres.
Two Facades, Two Entirely Different Experiences
The Nativity facade (east side) was the only facade completed during Gaudi lifetime. It faces morning sun and is covered in dense, naturalistic sculpture. Its stained glass filters blue and green light into the nave from the east. The Passion facade (west side), designed by sculptor Subirachs, is deliberately angular and severe. Its amber and red stained glass fills the nave in the afternoon. The interior, inaugurated in 2010, is the most remarkable part: branching columns that distribute weight without buttresses, flooding the space with coloured light from every angle.
Towers, Timing and What to Prioritise
Tower access (Nativity or Passion tower, by lift) gives elevated views and close-up Gaudi sculptural detail. Tower capacity is a separate allocation that sells out before general entry — book it with your entry ticket if this is a priority. Best times: late morning (around 10 to 11am) for Nativity facade light, late afternoon (around 4 to 5pm) for the Passion side. The first entry slot for smallest crowds. Dress code applies. Allow 90 minutes minimum; with a tower visit, 2.5 to 3 hours.