Introduction
The La Sagrada Familia, a magnificent and iconic structure in Barcelona, Spain, has been under construction for more than 130 years. The ongoing project has seen multiple campaigns, changes in ideas, and masterpieces by renowned architect Antoni Gaudi. It is one of the city’s most celebrated sites and is a prime example of Gaudi’s genius and Spanish culture. In this article, we discuss the history of the La Sagrada Familia, the details of its construction, and what potential outcomes it will have on its completion.
History of the La Sagrada Familia
The project was originally commissioned by the Association of Devotees of Saint Joseph in 1882, as a Spanish interpretation of the famous Gothic cathedrals found in Northern Europe. Gaudi, a rising architect of the time, was chosen to lead the project at the age of 31, taking on what would become one of the most iconic Spanish masterpieces. Prior to his death in 1926, he was able to finish the structural body of the façade, the two lateral towers of the original design, and the crypts. Additionally, the eight-story Nativity Façade was completed after Gaudi’s death.
Details of Construction
The La Sagrada Familia is made primarily from stone and bricks, a combination of Gaudi’s design and traditional Catalan Gothic techniques. The columns under the roof are cross-shaped and colored, accompanied by an intricately detailed interior. The building also features an impressive 18-meter high vaulted ceiling, framed with alternating triangular and arcades, and numerous stone sculptures of religious figures and bas-reliefs.
Gaudi also incorporated modernist principles into the construction, such as natural lighting options, reinforced concrete structures, curvilinear shapes, and an open-air nave to allow abundant light. He also chose to have the exterior of the building serve as an aerial view of the city, making it appear as if the church was trimmed or layered.
Outcome on Completion
The ultimate completion of the project is scheduled for 2026, marking its 144th anniversary. Currently, the La Sagrada Familia is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is estimated the cathedral will attract more than 4 million visitors annually. It is also believed that Barcelona will benefit from the economic, environmental, and cultural repercussions of the cathedral. Moreover, it is anticipated that the project will provide a sense of identity to Barcelona and its culture.
Architecture and Technology
In addition to its ornate artistry and architecture, La Sagrada Familia is also incorporated with advanced technology. For instance, some areas of the building have been built with the use of computer-aided designs. It is also reported that the building is now protected by a sophisticated security system, with sensors to guard the artwork and architecture. Moreover, the interior of the building features air conditioning, LED lights, and fiber-optic sensors, providing new and innovative experiences for tourists and visitors.
This combination of art and technology helps to ensure that the future generations of the La Sagrada Familia will have the same wonderment and awe that it had in the days of Gaudi. Due to the use of these technologies, the experience of the cathedral for those who visit and enjoy its serenity will never be diminished.
Ending Construction
As the La Sagrada Familia continues its construction process, there are a variety of obstacles to overcome. One issue that remains is the task of creating an efficient and safe workplace for the over 700 workers and artisans constructing the building. There is also the problem of ensuring that the design is in line with Gaudi’s original idea, particularly due to the extreme differences in the styles used in different parts of the building, which has led to heated debate.
Fortunately, the project has been able to make strong strides since its approval in 2006, and new technologies and techniques have enabled workers to actually complete parts of the building faster. With all that has been accomplished and the milestone date of 2026 quickly coming, the workers and designers are confident in the idea that the La Sagrada Familia will be fully completed in the near future.
Funding and Costs
When the building was first started in 1882, the Association of Devotees of Saint Joseph provided the primary financial aid. However, with the demand for the project, private donations have become the main source of funding. Some notable companies, including Apple and RedBull, have donated millions of euros to the project. Furthermore, the La Sagrada Familia Foundation was established in 2012, which has since focused on providing creative methods of finding potential and much-needed funds.
The size of the project has caused costs to rise drastically. It is estimated that it has already cost over $150 million dollars and it is expected that the total cost could reach approximately $2.2 billion. While this may be a difficult sum to raise, the La Sagrada Familia has secured sufficient financial support until this date.
Impact
As the construction of the La Sagrada Familia gradually draws to a close, its completion will serve as a historical moment for Barcelona, as well as for Spanish heritage. The building has become a symbol of culture and religion, and its presence will offer something different and unique for the people of the city. Furthermore, its preservation and upkeep will keep the art and architecture of Gaudi alive, as well as provide continuous inspiration.
The completion of the La Sagrada Familia is also sure to provide an increase in tourism to the Barcelona area, likely be an attractive and well-needed addition to the already diverse city. Increased tourism and the ability to broaden the city’s cultural range could provide much-needed benefits and revenue. The cathedral’s already established success, as well as its schedule of completion, certainly make the La Sagrada Familia an ambitious and promising project.
Conclusion
The La Sagrada Familia is an incredible project that has been in construction for more than a century. It has seen multiple changes, campaigns, and intricate details due to the involvement of architect Antoni Gaudi. The upcoming completion of the building in 2026 will mark a significant moment for Spanish heritage and culture as well as for the city of Barcelona. Additionally, the incorporation of technology, advanced security systems, and modernist principles will certainly create an unforgettable experience for those who visit it.
