April 29 - Lourdes to Barcelona

Nativity Facade Of Basilica.

Despite our getting back from the procession last night well after 10:00 pm, we had an early start today - leaving by 7:00 am. But we are all excited knowing we are going to Barcelona, and we will have plenty of time on the bus to get a nap (the drive is around 6 hours).

Gaudi-Designed Apartment House.

As we drove into the city, we began to see the influence of Antoni Gaudi, one of the world's most famous architects and the architect of the Sagrada Familia Basilica. We will be visiting this Basilica today, which is another major highlight of our pilgrimage. Here are a few examples of the wonderful architecture we saw as we were driving into the city (both Gaudi and other).

Our Local Tour Guide - Louisa

When we departed our bus (already 4:00 pm), we met our local tour guide, Louisa and began a short walking tour in the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic).

We entered through a narrow street flanked by two bold Roman towers that once guarded the entrance gate to the ancient city of Barcino. Then we passed by the rear of the 14th century Cathedral of Barcelona, noting the interesting animal motif gargoyles.

Sylvia and Jose Perez
in Front of the Barcelona Cathedral

Unfortunately, because of the late hour, we only had a few minutes to explore this area on our own before leaving to go to Sagrada Familia Basilica, where we will celebrate Mass.

Nativity Facade. 

The Sagrada Familia Basilica (Holy Family Basilica) is Antoni Gaudi's masterpiece. Construction began in 1883, and is still in progress, with a goal of completing by 2026 (the 100th anniversary of Gaudi's death). While not the largest church in Spain (that would be the Seville Cathedral) it is Spain's most visited tourist destination. When we first saw the immense spires (394 feet), we were all awed by their size and majesty. It is hard to imagine that when the last central spire representing Jesus Christ is built, it will then be 560 feet tall, and will be the tallest church in the world. 

Detail of Nativity Facade. 

The basilica will have three facades: The Nativity, The Passion and The Glory facades. 

Detail of Nativity Facade.

The Nativity facade was the first to be completed (in 1930). It is quite ornate with many scenes and images from nature. It Faces East, a symbol of the birth of Christ. 

The Passion Facade.

The Passion facade is nearly complete and is a stark contrast to the Nativity facade - it is austere and simple. It faces the setting sun, representing the death of Christ. There is much symbolism in the dramatic scenes portrayed in this facade which show the severity and brutality of Christ's sacrifice. 

Detail of Passion Facade.

Detail of Passion Facade.

  

Construction began on the Glory facade (the largest and most striking) in 2003. It will be the principal facade and will be dedicated to the celestial glory of Jesus.

Sorry about using so many superlatives, but the inside of the Basilica is truly dramatic and incredible. I will let the pictures speak for themselves, but a few comments. The columns are a unique Gaudi design, with branching near the top and a changing shape as the column rises. We were also impressed with the colors and symbolism of the stained glass, which were only completed in the last 15 years or so. 

Altar and Transept
(Photo Credited to Tom Bartel on TravelPast 50 Website)

Detail of Jesus on the Altar

Summer/Fall Stained Glass

Winter Stained Glass

Model of Basilica When Completed

I'm convinced that this Basilica will be one of the most impressive buildings in the world when completed, and I just hope I will be able to visit when the final spire is constructed. 

Our Group Entering Crypt for Mass

After completing our tour of the Cathedral, we went to the crypt where we celebrated Mass in the Chapel of the Angel of Carmen. What a wonderful privilege it was to be able to experience Mass in such a special place. 

Chapel of the Angel of Carmen

Sylvia Perez Doing the Readings

Next to our Chapel was the tomb of Antoni Gaudi, with a beautiful statue of Our Lady and Baby Jesus. 

Antoni Gaudi's Tomb.

After Mass, it was already after 7:00 pm, so it was back to the hotel and our daily meeting. Maria joined us here to give us last minute instructions, as she was going to leave us the next day as we embark on our three day Mediterranean cruise. She has been a wonderful tour guide.