Sagrada Familia is a must-see for anyone who has an interest in architecture. Built by Antoni Gaudi and originally started in 1893, it is a monument to the Spanish Modernism of the 19th and 20th centuries. With its awe-inspiring neo-Gothic towers—some of which reach a height of 150 meters—it is no wonder the Sagrada Familia is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Barcelona. For tourists who have just one day to explore this famous basilica, the question then arises: which tower should you visit?
The Tower of Our Lady is the tallest of the four towers at the Sagrada Familia, standing at an imposing 150 meters. It is the most prominent feature of the basilica, and was designed to commemorate the centenary of the Marian apparitions in Lourdes. Those who climb to the top of this majestic tower could be rewarded with unbeatable views over Barcelona, and clear days can bring incredible vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, the Pyrenees, and the city of Barcelona.
The Tower of St. Joseph is the tower nearest to the center of the basilica and is dedicated to Saint Joseph. This tower stands at a height of 88 meters, and as such is the second highest tower in the Sagrada Familia. Unlike the Tower of Our Lady, the Tower of St. Joseph is easily accessible—even to those of limited mobility—as it can be reached via a specially designed elevator. What awaits those visitors who take the lift can be breathtaking views of the Gothic quarter, Barcelona Cathedral, and the city of Barcelona, as well as a close-up look at some of Gaudi’s amazing stained glass panels.
The Tower of the Holy Spirit is located to the right of the basilica, and is the third highest structure, standing at 80 meters. Dedicated to the Holy Spirit, this idiosyncratic tower can be a humbling experience, surrounded as it is by the overpowering presence of the mountains of Montjuic and Tibidabo. For visitors who reach the tower’s summit, the reward can be stunning views of the Sagrada Familia’s interior, as well as the Cap de Barcelona.
The Tower of the Angels is the final tower, located to the left-hand side of the basilica, and at a height of 65 meters is the shortest of the four. This tower is dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel and is accessible for everyone in that it has no stairs, with lifts available at all times. However, the views from the top of the Tower of the Angels are no less impressive than those from the taller three, as they focus predominantly on the choir of the basilica, as well as panoramas of the Mediterranean Sea.
Given the unique and stunning views that each of the four towers offers, it is hard to choose just one when planning a visit to the Sagrada Familia. Ultimately, each visitor must decide for themselves which experience is the most intriguing and fulfilling for them, as each tower has something entirely different to offer.
The Tower of Our Lady
The Tower of Our Lady is by far the tallest and most imposing of the four towers at Sagrada Familia, towering over the city of Barcelona and dominating the surrounding landscape. This tower was the brainchild of Gaudi, with its impressive 150 meter turret making it one of the most iconic monuments in the world. Visitors to this tower have the opportunity to appreciate the romanticism of the Neo-Gothic style silver sculptures which adorn the top and sides of the tower, as well as to gain unparalleled views of the Mediterranean city.
The Tower of St. Joseph
The tower of St. Joseph, dedicated to the patron saint of the Church, is the second highest tower in the basilica, standing at an impressive 88 meters. Its elevator makes it easily accessible to those with restricted mobility, and the views from its peak are simply spectacular, with Barcelona Cathedral and the city of Barcelona providing a stunning backdrop. Yet it is the unique mosaic designs and stained glass panels of Gaudi that draw enthusiast from far and wide to this Neo-Gothic wonder.
The Tower of the Holy Spirit
The Tower of the Holy Spirit stands at an awe-inspiring 80 meters and is located on the right-hand side of Sagrada Familia. From the top of this iconic red copper spire is a truly magnificent view of the city and the surrounding Montjuic mountain range, creating an unforgettable experience that no camera can ever capture. For those looking to get closer to Gaudi’s work, this is the place to be, as its windows offer glimpses of some of the artist’s marvellous mosaics and stained glass art.
The Tower of the Angels
The Tower of Angels is the shortest of the towers but this does not make it any less remarkable. Dedicated to St. Michael the Archangel and located to the left of the basilica, this tower is a reflection of the grandeur and beauty of Medieval English Gothic structures. Those who take the elevator to the top of this singular specimen can enjoy marvellous panoramas of the Mediterranean Sea, as well as stunning views of the Sagrada Familia’s interior. Those who brave the climb can be rewarded with a truly humbling experience.