The impressive basilica, designed by Antoni Gaudí, has been under construction for over 135 years, and it is still not finished.
Despite the fact that it is not completed, it is one of the most visited monuments in the world and a symbol of the city of Barcelona. In this article, we will delve into the history of the construction of the Sagrada Familia and explore some of the reasons why it has taken so long to finish.
The Construction Saga of Sagrada Familia
If you’re wondering why is Sagrada Familia taking so long, you’re not alone. This iconic basilica has been under construction for over 138 years, and it’s still not finished. But there’s a lot more to the story than just a slow building process.
The first thing to understand is that Sagrada Familia was never meant to be a quick project. In fact, its architect, Antoni Gaudí, knew that he would never see it completed in his lifetime. He devoted over 40 years of his career to the basilica before his untimely death in 1926.
After that, construction continued under a series of architects, each with their own interpretation of Gaudí’s vision. But progress was slow, and the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s brought construction to a halt. It wasn’t until the 1950s that work began again in earnest.
Since then, there have been numerous setbacks and delays. Funding has always been a challenge, as the project relies solely on private donations and ticket sales. And the intricate design of the basilica means that every detail must be carefully planned and executed.
But despite the long construction process, Sagrada Familia is still one of the most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona.
The stunning architecture, intricate details, and rich history make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the city.
So if you’re in Barcelona, be sure to visit Sagrada Familia and witness the construction saga for yourself. And while you’re here, I’m sure you’ll be interested to discover all the beach, sun and paella options in Barcelona. But don’t stop there!
The Struggles Behind Sagrada Familia’s Construction
- Antoni Gaudi, the original architect, relied heavily on private donations to finance the project.
- Another major obstacle was the lack of detailed plans. Gaudi was known for his improvisational style, and he rarely drew complete plans for his projects. This meant that subsequent architects had to interpret his designs and make changes as they went along, leading to delays and added costs.
- Technical difficulties have also slowed down the construction process.
The use of traditional building techniques and materials, such as stone and brick, has made it difficult to incorporate modern technology. In recent years, computer-aided design has helped speed up the process, but it still requires a great deal of manual labor.
Despite these challenges, the Sagrada Familia is expected to be completed by 2026, the centenary of Gaudi’s death. It’s a testament to the perseverance and dedication of the architects, workers, and donors who have kept the project alive for over a century.
If you plan to visit the Sagrada Familia, be sure to buy your tickets in advance, as this is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona. And while you’re in the city, I’m sure you’ll be interested to discover all the beach, sun and paella options in Barcelona. Be sure to see all the options that Barcelona has: museums, food, shows, soccer, architecture, mountain getaways….
Let me give you some advice.
If you’re planning a visit to Barcelona, make sure to book your tickets to Sagrada Familia in advance.
Also, don’t miss out on visiting Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and La Pedrera, as they are some of the most unique and fascinating places in the city.
Remember, Barcelona has so much to offer beyond its famous landmarks. Explore the city’s hidden gems, try the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this Mediterranean jewel.
Any questions, suggestions or anecdotes do not hesitate to contact us and we will help you as much as possible.
