Glory Façade

Discover the Glory Façade of Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain. Explore its symbolism of salvation, history, and intricate Gaudí design.

Overview

The Glory Façade, or 'Façana de la Glòria' in Catalan, is set to become the most prominent and monumental of the three grand façades adorning Antoni Gaudí's iconic Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain. Positioned on the church's southern side, it will serve as the principal entrance to the central nave, welcoming visitors into the heart of this architectural marvel. Dedicated to the Celestial Glory of Jesus, this façade embodies profound theological themes, depicting humanity's journey towards God, encompassing concepts of Death, Final Judgment, and ultimate Glory. While its construction began in 2002, the Glory Façade is still actively being built, representing the ongoing dedication to Gaudí's unparalleled vision. Upon its completion, it will stand as the tallest of all the Sagrada Família's impressive facades.

History & Cultural Background

Antoni Gaudí, the visionary architect behind the Sagrada Família, commenced work on the concepts for the Glory Façade around 1914. Understanding that he would not live to witness the basilica's completion, Gaudí meticulously left behind a series of sketches and models. These crucial initial designs articulated his comprehensive vision for the façade, outlining intricate details that would convey the narrative of death, the final judgment, and the ultimate glory awaiting humanity. Construction efforts were paused following Gaudí's untimely death in 1926, leaving this ambitious part of the basilica unfinished for many decades. However, the work was eventually resumed, drawing heavily from Gaudí's original plans and the rich symbolism he intended to embed within the structure. The most recent phase of its development began in 2002, continuing to bring Gaudí's intricate theological narrative to life through stone, concrete, and sculpture.

What Makes It Special

The Glory Façade is distinguished by its profound symbolism and a myriad of unique architectural elements designed to narrate the Christian journey. It specifically focuses on Christ's eternal glory, his ascension to heaven, and the blissful afterlife. At its core, the façade explores profound themes of death, the Last Judgment, and the ultimate triumph of heaven, while also illustrating the concept of hell for those who stray from divine will. Architecturally, the façade will feature a grand, monumental portico or narthex, crowned with sixteen hyperboloid lanterns. These lanterns are arranged on two planes, with seven representing the days of creation and nine dedicated to the choirs of angels.

A striking centerpiece envisioned for the Glory Façade is the 'Tree of Life,' a symbol of eternal life and spiritual renewal, adorned with white doves representing souls ascending to heaven. The façade will also incorporate seven bronze doors, designed by Josep Maria Subirachs, each intricately carved with the petitions of the Lord's Prayer. Further enriching its symbolic depth, the base of the columns will depict the Seven Deadly Sins, contrasting with representations of the Seven Virtues positioned at their tops. An imaginative design includes a monumental staircase bridging a street-level height difference, with an underground passage beneath Carrer de Mallorca symbolically representing Hell and vice. The façade is intended to be richly adorned with artistic depictions of demons, idols, false gods, heresy, and schisms, alongside representations of Purgatory and death, completing its comprehensive theological narrative.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

One of the most compelling aspects of the Glory Façade is Gaudí's foresight; he meticulously planned this façade knowing he would not live to see it finished. This speaks volumes about his long-term vision and unwavering commitment to the Sagrada Família's enduring legacy. A fascinating detail to observe is on the central bronze doors, where the handles subtly highlight the letters 'A' and 'G,' a clever homage to Antoni Gaudí himself. The architectural ambition extends beyond the basilica's immediate structure, presenting an ongoing urban integration challenge for Barcelona. The plan for the monumental staircase to connect seamlessly with the city's Cerdà grid involves complex discussions, balancing the preservation of urban heritage, the needs of local residents, and visitor access. Furthermore, the clouds that will eventually adorn the lower parts of the towers and lanterns are designed to carry the inscription of the 'Credo,' making a profound statement visible from a distance.

Visitor Perspective

For the future visitor, the Glory Façade promises to be more than just an entrance; it will be a deeply symbolic gateway into the spiritual core of the Sagrada Família. As the main access point, it will orchestrate a 'processional choreography,' guiding visitors from the bustling streets of Barcelona into the basilica's serene central nave. Before its full completion, curious travelers can already gain insights into Gaudí's grand design by viewing the mock-ups and models displayed within the Sagrada Família's museum, which provide a glimpse into the façade's intended compositions. The experience of approaching and entering through the Glory Façade will offer a distinct emotional and intellectual contrast to the joy and exuberance of the Nativity Façade and the stark solemnity of the Passion Façade, completing the grand narrative of Christ's life and humanity's spiritual journey.