The history of the Sagrada Familia begins on 19 March 1882, when the first stone was laid under the direction of architect Francisco de Paula del Villar. A year later, in 1883, Antoni Gaudí took over the project, transforming its neo-Gothic design into the revolutionary and iconic basilica that has now been under construction for over 140 years.
The Early Years and Gaudí's Takeover
The original idea for an expiatory temple dedicated to the Holy Family came from a devout bookseller, Josep Maria Bocabella. After fundraising, the project began with architect Francisco de Paula del Villar, who designed a standard Gothic revival church. However, disagreements led to Villar's resignation in 1883, at which point the commission was passed to a young Antoni Gaudí. Gaudí completed the crypt, which was started by Villar, but radically altered all subsequent plans, infusing the project with his signature style inspired by nature and faith.
A Lifelong Devotion
From 1914 onwards, Gaudí ceased all other work to focus exclusively on the Sagrada Familia, which he saw as his holy mission. He knew he would not live to see it finished, famously remarking, "My client is not in a hurry." He dedicated over 40 years of his life to the temple. By the time of his accidental death in 1926, less than a quarter of the basilica was complete, including the crypt, the apse wall, and one tower on the Nativity Façade. His work was continued by his close disciple, Domènec Sugrañes i Gras.
Key Dates in Sagrada Familia's History
- 1882: Construction begins under architect Francisco de Paula del Villar on 19 March.
- 1883: Antoni Gaudí becomes the chief architect and transforms the project.
- 1891: Work begins on the Nativity Façade, the only part largely completed in Gaudí's lifetime.
- 1926: Gaudí dies after being hit by a tram; his disciple Domènec Sugrañes takes over.
- 1936: During the Spanish Civil War, revolutionaries burn Gaudí's workshop, destroying many original plans and plaster models.
- 1954: Construction begins on the Passion Façade, based on Gaudí's surviving drawings.
- 1976: The four bell towers of the Passion Façade are completed.
- 2005: The Nativity Façade and the Crypt are inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- 2010: Pope Benedict XVI consecrates the main nave on 7 November, officially designating it a basilica and opening it for religious services.
Interruption and Resilience
The greatest setback in the basilica's history occurred during the Spanish Civil War. In 1936, anarchists set fire to the crypt and the workshop, destroying a vast number of Gaudí's intricate plaster models, drawings, and plans. For years after the war, architects had to piece together Gaudí's vision from the few materials that survived. Construction resumed slowly in the 1950s, but progress remained painstaking for decades. Seeing the basilica today is a testament to the resilience and dedication of generations of architects and craftspeople who have kept the original vision alive. To fully appreciate this journey, many visitors choose guided tours that explain the history etched into the walls.
The Modern Era and the Path to Completion
The turn of the 21st century marked a new, accelerated phase of construction. The use of advanced technology like computer-aided design (CAD) and CNC stone-cutting machines allowed architects to interpret Gaudí's complex geometric models more accurately and build at a much faster pace. The main nave was covered in 2000, and the interior was finally completed for its papal consecration in 2010. While the 2026 completion date has been pushed back, the central towers have risen dramatically, transforming Barcelona's skyline and bringing Gaudí's ultimate vision closer to reality.
Frequently asked questions
When did construction of the Sagrada Familia start?
Construction on the Sagrada Familia officially began on 19 March 1882.
Who was the original architect?
The original architect was Francisco de Paula del Villar. He resigned in 1883, and Antoni Gaudí took over, completely reimagining the design.
What happened during the Spanish Civil War?
In 1936, during the Spanish Civil War, parts of the basilica and Gaudí's workshop were burned by revolutionaries. This destroyed most of the architect's original plans, drawings, and models, significantly delaying construction.
When will the Sagrada Familia be finished?
The main structure was initially planned for completion by 2026 to mark the centenary of Gaudí's death, but this was delayed due to the pandemic. A new definitive completion date for all decorative elements has not yet been set.
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