We all have a list
of places we wish to visit, but sometimes when we actually get there, they can
be a bit of a disappointment or we can find that they are not quite as we had
imagined. I have always wanted to visit Barcelona and on this occasion, I was
delighted to say that it was even better than I had hoped, or imagined it would
be!
The city has
such a lot of charm; from its stunning gothic quarter and winding cobbled
streets to its vibrant cafés and restaurants. For many pole the highlight is undoubtedly
the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia designed by Catalonian architect Antoni
Gaudi. It is indeed an amazing sight although much of the outside was covered
due to maintenance and reconstruction work, when I visited. But this did not
reduce its splendor!
Outside, the
famous Gaudi façade is amazing. The intricacy of the stone masonry is quite breath-taking;
telling the life story of Jesus from his birth to his crucifixion.
Inside the cathedral the stain glass
windows shimmer beautifully with light through the neo-gothic designs. Gaudis’ inspiration is for the internal design
of the Basilica is the splendor of nature. The internal vaults have been created
by pillars which resemble tree trunks stretching to the ceiling; creating an
intricate illusion of an indoor forest. I have added some photos to give a
visual impression, but the feeling of peace and tranquility, despite the many
tourists, is something which cannot be captured here, in mere words!
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The external facade |
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Stained glass and pillars |
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The illusion of the forest |
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The baldachin of the presbytery |
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This hyperboloid structure caps vault of the apse! |
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The suffering of Christ |
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Having a wonderful time! |
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