I knew, as I crossed the threshold of the magnificent Roman Catholic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona one cold day in February, that I was going to witness something marvellous. I did not, however, expect the experience to
take my breath away.
Talk about a delightful surprise!
… A portion of the ceiling …
You don’t have to be of the Catholic faith to appreciate the glory of God depicted in this sacred space.
… Window detail …
I have a fondness for the grand cathedrals of Europe. I’m in awe of their structure, workmanship, and artistry. Their sheer scale somehow embodies the essence of peace, leaving me feeling wonder-filled and worshipful. Even as tides of tourists flow up the aisles and around me my place in the great church is not lost. In that I find comfort.
Where permitted (not all churches allow photography) I take out my camera and capture moments that capture my imagination.
… Light painted floor …
Like a child wide-eyed in front of a shop window dressed for Christmas I’m fascinated by the magical light-play of stained glass reflected on stone and marble. The colours mesmerize as they slowly advance and
recede following the path of the sun.
… Ceiling detail in amber light …
… Central Nave …
The scale of the large churches and cathedrals of the Old World always amaze. They are ancient and have stood
the test of time. That, too, is part of their wonder.
This incredible structure, designed by acclaimed Catalan Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi (1852-1926), is still under construction. Work began in 1883 and is scheduled for completion in 2026 (the construction of this edifice is funded almost entirely through donations so when the money dries up the work stops, which has happened before).
It is a rather different experience to wander the nave of a mammoth sacred space that has yet to be completed. I feel like a witness to something significant.
The Sagrada Familia is a UNESCO Heritage Site.
… St. George in silhouette overlooking the central nave …
Perhaps if you have not yet visited this modern architectural wonder its astounding beauty is a delightful surprise for you too.
… Organ pipes …
… Organ pipes reflecting blue light …
Whatever your life journey, whatever your faith, with all my heart I wish for you the peace, joy and magic the Christmas season brings.
May all your surprises be delightful. 😉
… Detail from the Nativity Facade …
Thanks for visiting …
Merry Christmas!
Dorothy 🙂
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Copyright Aimwell CreativeWorks 2012
Eyes to Heart 
I’ve always wanted to go there, maybe when I make my plans to walk El Camino de Santiago I can stop by to see it all. Amazing pictures!
Thanks for visiting and leaving a comment. … A visit to Sagrada Familia would certainly be worth it. I hope you manage to see it one day … Be well, Dorothy 🙂
Great pictures!!!
Thanks so much. I’m glad you like them. … Be well, Dorothy 🙂
Beautiful pictures. We too found Sagrada Familia amazing when we visited it.
Thanks for visiting and leaving a comment. … Yes, the Sagrada Familia certainly leaves an impression, doesn’t it? … Be well, Dorothy 🙂
An amazing cathedral — your photos captured its magic well. ~ Kat
Thanks, Kat … 🙂
You are an extremely talented photographer.
Thanks for visiting and leaving a comment, Stephanie … Happy New Year! 🙂
Wow. This is amazing.
Yeah … 🙂
Superb! Did you like the traditional cathedral too? I loved the contrast of the two. 🙂
Oh yes, love it! I totally agree the contrast is exquisite. I loved visiting both of the churches. Still, the Sagrada Familia is such a stand-out and such a marvel in this period of our history. To think of the workmanship, patience, suffering, dedication, etc. put into this huge edifice in this era of distraction is totally amazing. Thanks for checking out my post. Be well, Dorothy 🙂
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