The Sagrada Familia

THE SAGRADA FAMILIA - A WONDER AMONG WONDERS

Barcelona wouldn't be the Barcelona we know today if it weren't for the amazingly-creative Gaudi. And who can say Gaudi without talking about the Sagrada Familia? We were lucky enough to have found an awesome place to stay thanks to airbnb right across the street from the Sagrada Familia - and I am not exaggerating - which was unbelievable. Thanks Nuria for having us!
The exterior of the church on the side of the Nativity (pictured above in the last photo) is so elaborate, rich and intricate in striking contrast with the facade of the Passion of Christ - a stark and angular composition of tableaux.
I visited Barcelona and saw the exterior of the church when I was a kid, and I remember it being tiny compared to what it is now. At that time we weren't able to go in as the lines were much too long - there was no easy access to internet at that time, you see. And, omg, I was alive at a time without internet - the thought is sobering... But I digress. You can spend hours admiring the details of the exterior and then just as long basking in the glory inside. There is just so much to see and take in, and you will continuously be noticing new details even after 30minutes of staring at the same spot.

TIPS:
- If you plan to visit the Sagrada Familia buy your tickets online beforehand and I cannot stress this enough. It opens at 9:00 and we arrived at 9:10 having purchased tickets to go up the tower of Nativity at 9:15. The queue already went half way around the church. So, really, buy your tickets online! The entrance for online ticket holders is on the side of the Passion. Skip the lines and make the most of your time!
- If you don't want to miss any details, then I suggest getting the audio guide. But please just admire the church first before listening to your guide. There is no time limit, you can stay in there as long as you want so make sure you really feel the atmosphere instead of just going through a checklist.