Barcelona’s remarkable Sagrada Familia is a major tourist attraction despite that it will not be complete until 2026. The huge Catholic Church is the magnum opus of Catalan architect and structural designer, Antonio Gaudi, whose first works possessed a strong gothic influence. When construction began in 1882, his vision for the Sagrada Familia transcended contemporary styles and to this day borders on the surreal.

Gaudi devoted the last 15 years of his life to this project and following his death in 1926, a number of different architects and designers have also contributed to this monumental cathedral. Catalan anarchists destroyed Gaudi’s models and workshops during the Spanish Civil War and the building’s current design is based on reconstructed versions of plans that had been lost.

The structure is supported by unique columns that are the result of various converging geometric shapes. Many change shape as they rise into the roof and each branches out to maximise structural stability, keeping true to Gaudi's naturalistic style.

Sagrada Familia is set to become one of the most famous structures in the world and once completed will cast an impressive shadow over Barcelona. With its long history and deeply symbolic design, the church is superbly unique and offers something special for all who visit.

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