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All You Need to Know About the Sagrada Familia Towers
Sagrada FamiliaTowers
The Sagrada Familia's towers are sculpted hymns, each whispering its tale of faith from Gaudí's visionary heart. Gaudí's genius sculpted each tower, whispering tales of faith from Nativity's delicate grace to Passion's starkness. This is Barcelona's soul etched in the sky. The church, which has been in existence for over 140 years now, is known for its incredible architecture. With exquisite facades and spires that run high into the sky, it is truly a remarkable place to visit. Read on to learn more about Sagrada Familia's towers.
What are the Sagrada Familia Towers?
The plan for Sagrada Familia, laid down by Antoni Gaudi, was truly ahead of its time. Gaudi’s original vision for the towers includes 18 spires, to represent the Twelve Apostles, Virgin Mary, the four Evangelists, and Jesus Christ. Of the 18, only 8 spires have been completed so far. These correspond to the four Apostles of the Nativity Façade and the four Apostles of the Passion Façade.
The spires dedicated to the Evangelists will be surmounted by sculptures of their traditional symbols while the tallest spire, dedicated to Jesus Christ, will be surmounted by a giant cross and will have a height of 170 meters (560 ft). While the towers are a long way from completion, once completed they will make Sagrada Familia the tallest church building in the world. You'll need to purchase a special access ticket to visit Sagrada Familia towers where you can choose to climb either the Nativity or Passion towers.
Sagrada Familia TicketsBreakdown of Sagrada Familia's Towers and Facades
The Sagrada Familia boasts three grand facades and a forest of 18 towers, each a testament to Antoni Gaudí's visionary genius and deep faith. Let's delve into the symbolism and beauty of these architectural miracles:
Nativity Facade
Passion Facade
Glory Facade
Beyond
Location: Eastern side of the basilica
Symbolism: Depicts the joyful birth of Jesus and the infancy of Christ.
Towers: Four towers dedicated to the Apostles James the Greater, Simon Peter, Andrew, and John.
Highlights:
- Exquisitely sculpted scenes from the Nativity, including the Adoration of the Magi, the Flight to Egypt, and the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple.
- Tree of Life sculptures symbolizing the Holy Family and the connection between heaven and earth.
- Intricate Nativity portal adorned with ceramic figures and natural elements.
Location: Western side of the basilica
Symbolism: Represents the suffering and crucifixion of Jesus.
Towers: Four towers dedicated to the Evangelists Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
Highlights:
- Haunting and expressive sculptures depicting scenes from the Passion, including Christ carrying the Cross, the Crucifixion, and the Pietà.
- Skeletal figures and angular forms emphasizing the pain and suffering.
- Door of Glory designed by Josep Maria Subirachs, portraying the Last Judgment
Location: Southern side of the basilica (still under construction)
Symbolism: Represents the Resurrection, Ascension, and eternal life after death.
Towers: Four towers dedicated to the Apostles: Bartholomew, Thomas, Philip, and James the Lesser. Upon completion, the facade will also feature towers for the remaining Apostles and a central tower dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
Highlights:
- Monumental bronze doors by Subirachs showcasing the Seven Virtues and Gifts of the Holy Spirit.
- Sculptures depicting scenes from the Book of Revelation and the Last Judgment.
- Ongoing construction promises a dramatic interplay of light and shadow through its intricate design.
- Central Tower: Dedicated to Jesus Christ, this towering spire will stand at 172 meters upon completion, symbolizing Christ's ascension to heaven.
- Towers of the Evangelists: These four towers, taller than the Apostle towers, stand at 135 meters and bear the symbols of the Evangelists: a winged bull (Luke), a winged man (Matthew), an eagle (John), and a winged lion (Mark).
Explore the Sagrada Familia Towers | Main highlights
Apostle Towers
Towers for the 12 Ardent Disciples
Each of the three facades includes four towers dedicated to one of the 12 devoted followers of Jesus. At present, there are only 8 Sagrada Familia towers constructed—four belonging to the Nativity Facade in the East and four belonging to the Passion Facade in the West. There are four more to be completed on the Glory Facade side. The oldest of the towers, dedicated to St. Barnabas, was built during Gaudi's lifetime and was completed in 1925. Each of these towers rises up to 90m to 112m in height and is the smallest of the 18 towers.
Evangelists Towers
Towers for the 4 Evangelists who Compiled the Gospels
The Sagrada Familia's plan features six central towers, of which four are dedicated to the four evangelists—Mathew, Mark, Luke, and John—whose works have led to the preservation of Christian history and religion. These towers are being built currently and have reached a height of 103.56m and will be 135 m when completed, making them the third tallest towers. They are slender in size compared to the towers dedicated to Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ and contain the staircases and lifts that lead to the interior of the tower of Jesus Christ.
Virgin Mary Tower
Second Tallest Tower
The design of Sagrada Familia is spectacular owing to the elaborate thinking that has gone into its creation. Gaudi has deliberately made the tower of Jesus to not be taller than Montjuïc hill as a mark of respect to the Creator and has also ensured that the tower of the Virgin Mary doesn’t go beyond Jesus’. This Sagrada Familia tower was inaugurated on 8 December 2021. The highlights of the tower are the beautifully crafted, mosaic decorated top and the star of Virgin Mary which is illuminated daily.
Tower of Jesus Christ
The Meeting of Divinity and Humanity
A careful observation of Gaudi’s design shows he envisioned the Temple structure to be in a hierarchical, vertical rise that depicts the rising of the human being to divinity, and the tower of Jesus is at the very top of it all. Right in the middle of the towers of the four evangelists, the tower of Jesus will stand tallest. It will rise to a height of 172m and will be the highest church tower in the world and the tallest structure in Barcelona. The completion of this Sagrada Familia tower will be a culmination of the work of more than 140 years and may finish in 2026 - on the 100th death anniversary of Gaudi.
Sagrada Familia Tower view
Passion Tower Sagrada Familia
Nativity Tower Sagrada Familia
The view from the Passion Tower of the Sagrada Familia is truly breathtaking. As you ascend the narrow spiral staircase, anticipation builds with each turn. Finally, you emerge onto the observation platform and are met with a panorama that will take your breath away.
To the east, the sparkling Mediterranean Sea stretches out as far as the eye can see. On a clear day, you can even glimpse the distant hills of Mallorca. Below, the bustling city of Barcelona unfolds, with its iconic landmarks like the Montjuïc hill and the Sagrada Familia itself visible in all their glory.
Looking north, you'll see the Sagrada Familia's Nativity Facade, with its joyful sculptures depicting the birth of Jesus. To the west, the city gives way to the verdant hills of Collserola. And to the south, you can admire the intricate details of the Passion Facade, with its haunting sculptures representing the suffering of Chris
As you ascend the elevator, anticipation builds. Reaching the top, you're greeted by a close-up view of the Nativity Facade, its intricate sculptures and symbolism coming alive before your eyes. You can admire the delicate figures of the Holy Family, the playful angels, and the whimsical creatures adorning the facade, all bathed in sunlight or moonlight depending on your visit.
While the focus is on the Sagrada Familia, the city isn't entirely absent. Peeking through gaps in the towers and sculptures, you can catch glimpses of Barcelona's bustling streets, the Sagrada Familia's Nativity Square, and even the distant outlines of landmarks like Montjuïc and Tibidabo. These glimpses add a touch of urban context to the otherwise Sagrada-centric panorama.
Unlike the Passion Tower's focus on the city, the Nativity Tower allows you to appreciate the Sagrada Familia's unique architectural details from above. You can see the intricate patterns of the roof, the interplay of light and shadow on the spires, and the overall grandeur of Gaudí's masterpiece from a privileged angle.
The Sagrada Familia Tower stairs
One will have the opportunity to get to the top of the Sagrada Familia towers, to get a view of the magnanimous skies of Barcelona, overlooking the ocean. While you can get to the top via elevators, the way back down is only possible through the long, narrow series of winding stairs, allowing you to walk the Barcelona steps.
In theme with Gaudi’s personal architectural style that draws from nature, these spiral stairs resemble a snail's back. They are 60m in height and have a series of 504 steps in total. The stairs have no railings but spiral into themselves in such a way that the walls act as safe support while getting down. The stairs are completely safe to climb and not very physically tiring. Visitors with physical disabilities, claustrophobia and heart conditions are requested to refrain from accessing the Towers.
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Frequently asked questions about the Sagrada Familia Towers
What is the Sagrada Familia Towers?
The Sagrada Familia towers are the 18 towers that comprise the structure of the famed basilica.
Can I visit the Sagrada Familia Towers?
Yes, you can visit the Sagrada Familia Towers if you purchase Sagrada Familia tickets with access to the tower. You can book your Sagrada Familia tickets here.
Is the entry to Sagrada Familia Towers free?
No, entry to the Sagrada Familia Towers is not free. You need to purchase tickets to be able to enter the Sagrada Familia tickets.
Can you buy tickets to the towers in Sagrada Familia?
Yes, you can buy tickets to the towers in Sagrada Familia online.
How many Sagrada Familia Towers are there?
There are currently 9 Sagrada Familia Towers and 9 more are being constructed.
How many Sagrada Familia Towers are completed?
9 of the total 18 Sagrada Familia Towers are completed.
When will the Sagrada Familia Towers be completed?
The Sagrada Familia Towers are expected to be completed by 2026.
Are the Sagrada Familia Towers worth it?
The Sagrada Familia Towers is the most visited place in Spain, which is a testament to its immense beauty, magnitude and sanctity. It is definitely worth it!
Which Sagrada Familia Tower is better?
The Virgin Mary tower which has the Star of Mary and beautiful mosaic works at the base of the shaft makes it look better.
Should I purchase Sagrada Familia Towers tickets in advance?
Yes, it is best to purchase Sagrada Familia Towers tickets online and in advance.
What are some must-see highlights of the Sagrada Familia Towers?
The must see highlights of the Sagrada Familia Towers are the 3 facades of the towers that depict three different aspects of Christ’s life.
Who designed the Sagrada Familia Towers?
The Sagrada Familia Towers were designed by the famous Catalan architect, Antoni Gaudi.
How tall are the towers at Sagrada Familia?
The Evangelist towers are at a height of 135m, the Apostle towers are of 90m-112m, while the Tower of Virgin Mary stands at 158m and the Tower of Jesus being the tallest, will stand at 172m.
How tall is the tallest tower in Sagrada Familia?
The tallest tower in Sagrada Familia will be the tower of Jesus which is meant to stand at a height of 172m.
