Cultural Activity: La Sagrada Familia

My trip to La Sagrada Familia was similar to that of La Padrera, in that both buildings evoked a sense of wonder and unity characteristic of Gaudi’s work. The depths of the building alone were incredibly intimidating and awe-inspiring. As an architectural project originally based on clear traditionalism, Gaudi employs a Gothic ground plan for the cathedral, linked by a system of naves and exterior spaces. This element coupled with the building’s undoubtedly vertical development, including eighteen pointed towers of an imposing height, hint at the complexity of Gaudi’s design. 

Although the cathedral falls within the “Modernisme” period, it is clear that Gaudi carried the Art Nouveau style far beyond its usual application. This is especially true in regards to the cathedral’s surface decoration, in which Gaudi demonstrates his accumulative sensitivity with the complex use of allegory and his excessive use of symbolism. 

Characteristic of Gaudí's naturalistic style, the sculptures located on and around the nativity facade are ornately arranged and decorated with scenes and images from nature. Each are a symbol in their own manner. For instance, the three porticos are separated by two large columns, and at the base of each lies a  tortoise or a turtle—representative of the land and the other, of the sea. Furthermore, the two chameleons on either side of the façade are symbolic of change. In addition, the nativity façade is divided into three porticos, each of which represents a theological virtue: Hope, Faith and Charity.

Gaudi’s belief that La Sagrada Familia would epitomize the entirety of his architectural career was a valid one. The cathedral itself is evidence of his capacity to ultimately surpass technical and geometrical transcendent conceptions. Although he died before the cathedral was completed, La Sagrada Familia is very much the culmination of the monumental style and the final synthesis of everything architectural. Indeed, the church shows very clearly the stages of maturation that took place during Gaudi’s life.