When it comes to selecting which tower is better at the Sagrada Familia, the issue is more complicated than one might think. Each of the eighteen towers is unique and beautiful in its own way, so there is no easy answer to this question. Tourists and architectural experts alike have their own opinions and preferences. To understand why a specific tower may be qualitatively better than others, it is important to consider the unique elements that comprise the building, its history, and the impact it has had on the city of Barcelona and its people.
The Sagrada Familia is an iconic structure in both Barcelona and Spain at large. When Antoni Gaudí took over the design in 1883, it was already to be a cathedral of the Roman Catholic faith and a very important religious symbol. Gaudí’s thought it should reflect the beauty and splendor of the God, and so set out to create the grandest structure the region had ever seen. Since the Noucentrista construction began in 1900 it has continued to evolve, adding new towers and other ornate details that make it what it is today.
Within the cathedral, each of the eighteen towers provides a unique vantage point to view Barcelona. Each one is set at a different height, offering a different perspective of the city. From the highest towers, even views of the nearby Mediterranean Sea can be seen. Some of the towers are even designed in a way that they can double as a clock, letting people keep track of the time in a very unique way.
For aesthetic purposes, the tallest towers are likely the most attractive. The four highest towers, known as the Passion Facade, are the main draw. These towers stand majestically at over one hundred meters and can be seen from anywhere in Barcelona. The tallest of all is the central tower, the Jesus Tower, which measures an impressive one hundred and sixty-five meters.
For visitors and local alike this tower is said to be the most beautiful. The base is rectangular, while the upper parts is octagonal, with a white cross-shaped crown. In addition, it features a mixture of carvings, sculptures, and other artwork representing both traditional Catholic and Catalan themes.
The Passion Facade has much to offer to those who take the time to study each of its four towers. In terms of aesthetics, the Jesus Tower is likely the most interesting and impressive. It stands at the highest point, but also looks the most unique, with a single central spire that gives it a distinct silhouette against the Barcelona skyline. For a newcomer to the city, it can be a sobering reminder of the passage of time and the importance of faith.
Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia is a masterpiece of art, architecture and religion. Each of the eighteen towers has its own identity, with its own purpose and beauty. For those looking for a majestic view of Barcelona, the highest four towers, known as the Passion Facade, are the perfect place to start. The Jesus Tower in particular stands out with its distinctive design, adding the desired beauty to the skyline.
The Nativity Facade
The Nativity Facade is another set of towers located at the complex and is considered by most to be the most beautiful. It was Gaudi’s first facade, representing Christ’s birth. This facade stands out from the other towers and features a unique architectural design made up of columns, arches, and spires. In addition, it features a range of sculptures and ornaments, such as the iconic “Sheep and Lamb” by Josep Maria Subirachs.
The four towers on the Nativity Facade are the tallest in the complex, reaching the same height as the Passion Facade towers. Each of the towers is designed differently, complementing the total design. Most of them are topped with a statue of angels or an image of the Virgin Mary.
The Nativity Facade is also home to the Bell Tower. This is the only tower to contain bells which were cast in the 18th century, and is the only existing part of Gaudi’s original design. When the bells are rung, it is said that it can be heard for miles around.
The Nativity Facade is a stunningly beautiful, spiritual set of towers, found in the lower part of the complex. Its delicate, intricate design has made it a must-see for those seeking an insight into Gaudi’s genius work. It is also the most popular facade due to its sheer beauty and spiritual nature.
The Glory Facade
The third facade of the Sagrada Familia is the Glory Facade. This was the final facade designed by Gaudi, whose vision it was to depict the culmination of the Gospel. Like the Nativity Facade, the Glory Facade is decorated with intricate detail, and is a marvel to behold.
The Glory Facade is home to four tall towers, the highest of which is the Immaculate Conception Tower, topping out at over 100 meters. This is the only Gaudi tower that has a cross, a symbol of redemption and hope for eternity, at its top. The four towers on the facade are adorned with a range of sculptures, ornaments and images, many of which depict scenes from the Bible.
As with the Passion and Nativity Facades, the Glory Facade is the tallest of the three and is the perfect place to capture Barcelona’s skyline. It is one of the most impressive facades of the building, and its intricate detail makes it even more fascinating.
In terms of beauty and spiritual relevance, the Glory Facade is the second-best behind the Nativity Facade. It is a remarkable example of Gaudi’s style and architecture, and it stands out in a city filled with stunning sights.
The Apse Facade
The Apse Facade is the fourth and final facade at the Sagrada Familia. This was the last facade to be added to the complex and it was completed in 2018. It is the only facade that is not based on a Biblical tale. Instead, the facade is dedicated to the Mother of God and its aim is to show the power of faith and devotion.
The Apse Facade has three towers, all of which are taller than the other facades. The tallest of the three is the Mary Magdalene Tower, which stands at over 110 meters. The three towers are connected by a set of stairs leading up to the entrances. The towers are adorned with sculptures of various saints and figures, many of which have a spiritual significance to the Catholic belief.
The Apse Facade is the newest of the four and has the most contemporary design. Its towers are more streamlined and modern compared to the other facades, earning it comparisons to Gaudi’s other works such as his La Casa Mila. Like the other facades, it is perfect for a bird’s-eye view of Barcelona.
The Apse Facade is the newest and most contemporary of the four facades. While it may not be as intricate as the Passion or Nativity Facades, it can still be considered beautiful. Its three towers are the perfect way to experience Gaudi’s visionary architecture.
Conclusion
So which tower at Sagrada Familia is the best? The answer is not so simple. Each of the eighteen towers is unique and has its own charm, so it is impossible to pick a single tower that is qualitatively better than all the rest. It is all about personal preference, and what you are looking for in a tower. The Passion Facade, Nativity Facade, Glory Facade and Apse Facade all have their own merits, whether it be their spectacular views, intricately-detailed designs, or spiritual significance.
