La Sagrada Familia Basilica

Story and photos by Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet TM

On a gastronomic safari in Europe, the inimitable and audacious Travelling Gourmet TM went to one of the wonders of Barcelona, namely the…

MAGNIFICENT Basilica built by architect extraordinaire Antonio Gaudi! This must-see titanic Basilica is one of Gaudí’s most famous works in Barcelona. I was amazed to learn that it has been under construction since 1882 ! It is still under construction in parts although now using modern materials which is controversial… According to the current Chief Architect Jordi Fauli, the master plan is to have the towers and most of the church’s structure completed in 2026 in time for the 100th anniversary of Gaudi’s death. Gaudi won the patronage of some of Barcelona’s wealthiest industrialists and upper-crust families, who commissioned him to build gorgeous homes and other daring buildings and parks which have helped make Barcelona a world famous tourist destination.

I was awestruck to see this architectural marvel, and to admire the ueber-colourful stained glass and other incredible aspects of this Basilica. The super high ceilings give the visitor a sense of wonder. There is a small amphitheatre perched 60 metres (196 feet) above the floor of the church from where you can gaze at the church’s stained glass windows and imposing arching ceilings.The energetic can climb to the top for panoramic views! Just visiting this Basilica is a very humbling experience. Inside there is a superb and very informative museum. The souvenir shop is also well worth a visit for unique souvenirs to remember your visit. One thing you must be aware of is be prepared for the long queues for the Security Screening in these dangerous times, before you can enter. Note too that Swiss Army knives are prohibited.

The Basilica had more than 3.2 million visitors in 2014 thus making it one of the most popular tourist sites in Spain! What more can I say? Antonio Gaudi was indisputably a genius!

La Sagrada Familia Basilica
Carrer Mallorca, 401
08013 Barcelona, España.

Opening hours:
November – February: 09:00 – 18:00
March: 09:00 – 19:00
April – September: 09:00 – 20:00
October: 09:00 – 19:00
25 and 26 December, 01 and 06 January: 09:00 – 14:00

Disabled Access: Yes

About thetravellinggourmet

As a renowned Travel, Food & Wine Writer he has travelled the world in a keen & indomitable pursuit of exotic delicacies & fine wines. His articles have been published in over 20 prestigious publications, both local & international. Dr. Lim has toured and trained in Wine Evaluation & Oenology in most of the world's top wine producing areas from France to Australia. The Travelling Gourmet says, "Gastronomy has no frontier. These are the gastronomic voyages of The Travelling Gourmet. My unending mission. To explore strange new cuisines, to seek out new wines and new culinary experiences, to boldly go where no gourmet has gone before...." Have pen, will travel. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any other information storage & retrieval system, without permission from Dr. Michael Lim The Travelling Gourmet and/or MSN. Material may be works of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents may be true but may also be products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously. Any resemblance whatsoever to actual person or persons, either dead or living, events, or locales may be entirely and purely coincidental and unintentional. No part of this website may be used to villify others or for criminal purposes. Interests: Travel, Food, Wines, Cooking, Wine Appreciation, Parachuting, Languages, Music, Reading, Swimming, Hunting, Ballet, Fencing, Archery, Anthropology and more... The Travelling Gourmet is a copyrighted trademark. All rights and photos reserved. No part may be reproduced without permission.

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