How Long Have They Been Building Sagrada Familia?
The construction of the Sagrada Familia began in 1882, in Barcelona, Spain and is still ongoing even after 135 years. This remarkable testament to the creativity, tenacity and skill of the many architects and construction workers responsible for it stands out among the Roman Catholic churches for its extraordinary beauty, structure and uniqueness. Its combination of traditional gothic and modernist elements, along with its intricate designs, has made it one of the most iconic landmarks in the world, a testament to its fame and mystery.
The process of building the sagrada familia began with the original architect, Francisco de Paula del Villar, working with the original investors. After two decades of intense design and revisions Villar gave up his position as chief architect and left. Antoni Gaudi, a representative of Catalan Modernism, then took over construction and brought the structure to its current state. Gaudi worked continually on the project until he passed away in 1926. After Gaudi’s death, several different architects took over that have kept his work moving forward and so the process continues.
The Sagrada Familia has come a long way since its inception. To date, the construction is still only 70% complete and is estimated to take at least another 40 years to finish. This is pretty impressive considering it has grown from no more than a small chapel in a park to a complex structure that stands around 170 meters tall. As the construction of the Sagrada Familia progresses, the project will continue to become more ambitious and magnificent as more components are added.
The architects and workers behind the Sagrada Familia have faced some major challenges in their over century effort on the structure. The project has endured the Spanish Civil War and multiple interruptions from the Catalan Government which have significantly hampered its progress. Additionally, the complicated designs and materials used are highly time-consuming and expensive to put together.
In spite of all its challenges, the Sagrada Familia remains one of the most impressive markers of human achievement and beauty in Barcelona today. Its towering grandeur and intricate designs are still unrivaled for their majesty and unique composition. Even in its incomplete state, visitors are awe-struck by the structures’ aura and personal sense of spirituality.
Educational Aspects
The Sagrada Familia provides a unique educational opportunity to visitors of its site. The complexity and unique layout of the structure allow visitors to study and understand the engineering behind it, gaining insight into the intricacies of medieval construction. This creates an opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the historical and religious context of the structure. Educational tours are also available, in order to gain a more detailed insight into its history and structure through the guided view of professional guides.
As well as its educational qualities, the Sagrada Familia also adds significant cultural value. Knowledge and appreciation of the design, layout, and construction of the Sagrada Familia, combined with its religious connotations, fosters a greater appreciation for the culture and traditions of Barcelona. This appreciation creates an increased value for the amenities and attractions that are included as part of the local ecosystem.
The Sagrada Familia complex and its surrounding area have become an incredibly popular tourist destination. Not only does the structure offer guided tours and educational opportunities, but it also provides numerous cultural events, such as concerts, film screenings, and various theatre performances, as well as access to unique artwork and exhibits dedicated to its cultural history. This has significantly increased the number of tourists annually, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Impact of Technology
Technology has also played a significant role in the recent progress of the construction of the Sagrada Familia. The use of high-tech surveying and analysis tools has enabled the architects to experiment with complex shapes and curves, as opposed to the traditional straight lines used before. Additionally, with the help of the advancements in robotics, modern experts are now able to 3D-print parts that were too complicated or expensive before to fabricate in traditional methods.
In addition, the introduction of computer-aided designing or CAD software has also simplified the whole process. Skilled builders and engineers can now use 3D drawings for a better understanding of the Sagrada Familia and fine tune their designs by using the software, making it easier and faster to come up with solutions for the project’s many complex issues.
Alongside the technology and robotic advancements, the money generated from tourism has been fundamental in allowing the construction company to expand their radius and continue the process which had come to a near-halt decades ago. The money has also allowed the company to acquire the necessary tools, material and resources to continue.
Construction Company Support
The construction company that has been in charge of the Sagrada Familia, Gaudi Arquitectos, has also been instrumental in the success of the project. Established in 2000, the architectural firm has worked closely with the local government to ensure that the project meets their specific regulations. Additionally, the firm has offered a number of solutions for the project’s vast scope of work, including suggestions for the building’s structural integrity and aesthetic design.
The construction company has also worked closely with local experts in the areas of services and materials. They have collaborated with architects in the design and use of wood, stone and steel, as well as worked closely with local suppliers for the most cost-efficient options. Additionally, the firm has liaised with the Catalan government for tax incentives and other forms of financial assistance.
Gaudi Arquitectos has also resorted to crowdfunding to help with the project’s funding. The crowdfunding platform has enabled interested donors to donate money and resources to help accelerate the building process. In addition to this, the money raised has also helped the company to pay wages to the many unskilled laborers and volunteers that are working hard to keep the project moving forward.
Economic Impact
The Sagrada Familia has had a significant economic impact on its surrounding areas. As the structure has grown, it has become a symbol for the city of Barcelona and a major tourist destination. The construction project has provided employment opportunities in the areas of architecture, engineering, and construction. Additionally, the influx of tourists it has attracted has been a major boon to the local economy providing employment opportunities in tourism and hospitality.
The Sagrada Familia is also one of the primary revenue sources for the Catalan government. The revenue generated by the project through tourism, admissions and other activities has been a major source of revenue for the region. Additionally, the Monument Tax imposed on the structure has also been a major source of income for the government.
In addition to its economic benefits, the Sagrada Familia has also had a positive effect on the environment. The use of green materials for the structure and its multiple gardens has allowed the project to have a minimal negative impact on the surrounding areas. Additionally, the number of trees and other native species have been increasing around the structure providing a greater biodiversity for the area.
Public Perceptions
The Sagrada Familia has become a symbol of the city of Barcelona and is seen as a representation of both its historical and modern beauty. Despite its long-running construction, the structure is highly-revered by locals and visitors alike. As a result, there has been a number of campaigns and movements to push for the completion of the structure. This includes petitions, protests, and numerous online campaigns.
Additionally, the project has been recognised on the international stage and has become a popular destination among the Hollywood elite. The structure has been used as a setting in several major films and international publications, furthering its notoriety and charitable goals. From an international standpoint, the Sagrada Familia has become an iconic symbol of culture, tourism, and heritage.
In short, the Sagrada Familia, in spite of its long-running time of construction, remains an incredibly impressive and iconic structure. Despite numerous setbacks and difficulties, the project remains ongoing and shows promise for the future. It will be exciting to see the finished product, and for visitors and locals alike, the experience that the structure provides.
