explore-magazine-issue-20-europe

Iberian Peninsula

Aiming for Two thousand twenty-six La Sagrada Família stands as a testament to the genius of Antoni Gaudí and the timeless beauty of his creations—and even if you’ve witnessed it before, it’s worth a second look. The Barcelona skyline gleams with the 18 spindle-shaped towers that seem to pierce the clouds. There is so much detail to discover from the basilica’s three glorious façades, each representing a different phase of Christ’s life: the Nativity (birth), the Passion (death), and the Glory (resurrection). Each side tells a different part of the Christian story and invites you to reflect on the mysteries of faith. The Nativity façade, completed during Gaudi’s lifetime, celebrates life and birth with images of flora, fauna and the Holy Family. In contrast, the Passion façade, finished after Gaudí’s death, is stark and angular, symbolizing the suffering and sacrifice of Christ. The Glory façade is being worked on as I write this. Over the following months, visitors and locals will witness how the final skeleton of columns becomes yet another awe-inspiring element of this masterwork. With its awe-inspiring architecture, intricate symbolism, and spiritual resonance, it continues to captivate and inspire all who have the privilege of experiencing it.

Sabrina Schmid loves to travel the world and explore new places and cultures. Born and raised in Germany, she lived in France, Spain, and Mexico. Today, Sabrina resides in Miami, Florida and is a member of the marketing team at Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

58

Powered by