By far, my favorite church we have visited on this trip, and maybe ever, is Gaudi’s La Sagrada Familia (Holy Family).
The external facades are magnificent. This is the nativity entrance with scenes leading up to and including Jesus’s birth.
I also like the front door covered in sculptures of ivy and bugs.
But the awe comes when you walk through the doors. It’s like walking into an expansive, magical forest. Gaudi’s inspiration from nature is clearly evident. The fact that it is made in cement or stone, is also stunning.
The windows filter the light and it feels like dappled sunlight. You really feel like you are part of God’s creation.
While we were there, we were treated to a mini organ concert.
The Passion facade shows the events leading up to Jesus’s death. It is stark amd grim. The columns look like bones or sinews. The scenes are devastating.
I’ve never seen anything like this church. Someday I hope to return and attend a service there.
We visited two other Gaudi creations – La Padrera, an apartment building, and Park Güell, a residential park and planned neighborhood.
A few other photos to share —
Nezzie enjoying churros
The Barcelona beach
A tapas bar
A paella dinner
A New Year’s Day peformance by the National Orchestra of Catalonia. The musical selections were varied, fun and included entertaining audience participation. The concert hall was stunning.
On to San Sebastián and Basque Country!
Travel Buddies 
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