There is something magical about catching a glimpse of the Sagrada Familia's suggestive spires reaching above the skyline of surrounding apartment blocks.  Its full title is the Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, and it is a Roman Catholic religious place of worship. It is impossible to visit Barcelona and not be impressed by the unique architectural masterpieces that remain a legacy to their head architect, Antonio Gaudí.  The most important of his works and the symbol that for many best represents Barcelona, its construction was begun in 1882.

The original architect resigned shortly after the project began and the task was handed over to Gaudí.
 
With a strong prevalence of non-linear shapes and some intricate stonework, his ambitious project captured the imagination of its administrators and financial backers who recognised it to be quite unlike anything else the world over.  Gaudi himself was said to have been killed by a passing tram whilst stepping back to admire his work in 1926 and his body was buried in the temple's crypt. 

Estimates of the completion date vary, from 2020 to 2026. As well as the architecture itself, a visit to the Sagrada Familia should include visiting the museum, which explains more about the historical context in which this masterpiece was built.  The individual admission fee is €8, but discounts and combined tickets with other attractions are available. 

Opening Times:
Mon-Sun 9.00-1.30 & 16.30-20.00
 
Tel: (34) 93 317 07 90  

Visit the middle-aged Jewish quarter in Barcelona with the oldest synagogue from Spain and Europe. The facade of the synagogue is oriented towards Jerusalem, constructed especially in this direction and therefore breaking with the direct line of the street. In compliance with the indications given in the Tosefta, it contains many large windows, three of which face this direction while others permit the entrance of light from the sacred City.