Sagrada Família, one of the world’s most emblematic and iconic masterpieces of Catalan architecture, is a sight to behold. The church, also known as the temple of the Sagrada Família, is a masterpiece of Antoni Gaudí and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Located in the district of Eixample in Barcelona, the Sagrada Família has become an integral part of the Spanish city and attracts tourists from all over the world.
The Sagrada Família is composed of 18 towers, of which; 12 are dedicated to the apostles, 4 to the evangelists and the remaining two dedicated to Mary and Jesus. While it’s recommended to ascend all the towers of the Sagrada Família if you have time, some of the towers are more interesting than others and worth prioritising.
The central tower is the tallest one and the largest of the Sagrada Família. It stands 170.5 metres tall and is dedicated to Jesus, representing his power and stature. Ascending the central tower rewards visitors with panoramic views of the entire city of Barcelona. In addition, the four evangelists towers-Matthew, Mark, Luke and John-are shorter than the apostles towers, but no less interesting. These four towers house the bells of the church, and are also ornately decorated with mosaics and sculptures.
The towers dedicated to Mary and Joseph, two of the most important figures in Christianity, are also especially captivating. Located on the south facade, these two towers measure 90.5 metres, the second tallest in the temple. They’re decorated with mosaics depicting Mary and Joseph.
The remaining twelve towers are dedicated to the twelve apostles, each of which display a unique combination of colours and architectural styles. They depict scenes from the Bible in an imaginative and visually captivating manner. Each of the twelve apostles towers can be ascended, allowing visitors to get a better appreciation of the architectural marvel of the Sagrada Família. Amongst the towers, the tower of the apostle Thomas is the third tallest standing at 97 metres tall.
What to Expect
When ascending the towers of the Sagrada Família, visitors can expect to experience a unique and unforgettable experience. As well as the breathtaking views from the top of the towers, there are numerous detailed sculptures, mosaics and stained-glass windows for visitors to admire. On the final ascent of the tallest tower, visitors can marvel at the intricate carvings and sculptures that decorate the walls. Overall, the experience of climbing the towers of the Sagrada Família will remain with visitors for years to come.
Tickets and Timings
Ascending the towers of the Sagrada Família is possible with a tower admission ticket, which can be purchased online or at the entrance of the church. Prices for the tickets start from €4 per tower for basic admission, and €7 for tickets with audio-guide. Timings for the tower admission tickets vary, with some towers open during the morning and some open in the afternoon. Check with the kiosks at the entrance for up-to-date timings and availability.
Tips & Tricks
When ascending the towers of the Sagrada Família, it is advisable to bring warm clothes, and some water and snacks. As the climb can take a while, depending on the number of people and other factors, it is important to stay hydrated and energised. It is also recommended to arrive early, since the queue for the tower admission ticket may become long as the day wears on.
Safety Reminders
It is important to remember that the Sagrada Família is a declared World Heritage Site, and is thus subject to strict regulations. At the same time, it is important to remain safe when ascending the towers, because of their height and structure. It is advisable to listen to the safety briefings at the entrance and refrain from running or jumping. Lastly, it is important to obey the instructions issued by the security staff, who are there to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.
Summary of Recommendations
The Sagrada Família is a masterpiece of Catalan architecture, and ascending its towers is an unforgettable experience. The towers dedicated to Mary, Joseph and Jesus, as well as the four evangelists, are particularly captivating. Visitors should purchase their admissions tickets beforehand and avoid the queues, and it is also important to bring warm clothing and snacks. When climbing the towers, visitors should obey the instructions issued by the security staff and take no risks.
