Basílica I Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família (The Passion Façade)
Architectural monument and large-scale sculpture • Antoni Gaudí (Original Architect); Passion Façade sculptures by Josep Maria Subirachs
Style & Movement
Moderniste (Catalan Modernism), Art Nouveau, and Expressionism (specifically in the Passion Façade sculptures)
Medium & Technique
Stone masonry, reinforced concrete, and monumental stone carving (specifically sandstone and granite)
Creation Period
Ongoing construction (Original design 1883; Passion Façade construction primary phase 1954–2018; sculptures 1986–2005)
Dimensions & Format
Monumental scale; the towers reach up to 172.5 meters (566 ft) upon projected completion. Vertical orientation.
Subject Description
The Passion Façade represents the suffering of Jesus during his crucifixion. The composition is characterized by stark, angular shapes and skeletal columns meant to resemble bones. It features monumental sculptures of the Stations of the Cross, including the Last Supper and the Betrayal.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Excellent/Ongoing; as a living construction site, the building is in a high state of maintenance given its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Estimated Market Value
Inestimable (National Monument/Cultural Heritage)
Auction Estimate
N/A (Not subject to private sale)
Provenance History
Commissioned by the Associació Espiritual de Devots de Sant Josep; owned and managed by the Fundació de la Junta Constructora de la Sagrada Família.
Art Historical Significance
One of the most iconic works of 20th-century architecture. It represents the pinnacle of Gaudi's unique organic style and is the most visited landmark in Spain, merging Gothic and curvilinear Art Nouveau forms with structural innovation.
Notable Features
Includes a Sator Square (magic square) where numbers sum to 33, representing the age of Christ at his death. The facade's angular, harsh style is a deliberate contrast to the organic, flowing Nativity Façade.
Condition Issues
Natural weathering of stone; ongoing structural stress common in large-scale masonry; historical damage occurred during the Spanish Civil War (1936) which destroyed Gaudi's original models.
Conservation Recommendations
Continuous structural monitoring, specialized stone cleaning to remove atmospheric pollutants, and strict adherence to Gaudi's surviving liturgical and geometric principles.