The Sagrada Familia: the temple that was not going to be "Sagrada Familia" nor by Gaudí
Staying in a hotel in the center of Barcelona is much more than just sleeping near the main tourist attractions: it's about experiencing the city's history. And few places tell that story better than the Sagrada Familia, Barcelona's most iconic monument and one of the most unique temples in the world.
From our hotel in the Eixample district, conveniently located yet peaceful, discovering Barcelona also means uncovering the stories behind its most famous facades. That's why, and because this year marks the centenary of Gaudí's death, we want to tell you about one of his most celebrated works: the Sagrada Familia.
A name that was not meant to last
When construction began in 1882, the temple wasn't called Sagrada Familia. Its original name was Templo Expiatorio de San José, reflecting the religious devotion that spurred the project. Over time, popular usage simplified the name to the one known today by millions of visitors.
Another example of how Barcelona shapes its identity over the years.
Gaudí was not the first architect
Although it seems unthinkable today, Antoni Gaudí was not the temple's initial architect. The project began under the direction of Francisco de Paula del Villar, with a classic Neo-Gothic design.
After disagreements with the promoters, Villar abandoned the project and Gaudí took over in 1883. From that moment on, the project changed radically.
The birth of a universal icon
Gaudí transformed the Sagrada Familia into a revolutionary work:
- Inspired by the forms of nature
- Laden with religious and mathematical symbolism
- Designed to evolve over decades
The architect knew he would never see the temple finished, but also that his work was destined to transcend generations.
2026: Gaudí's centenary
This year, 2026, Barcelona commemorates the centenary of Antoni Gaudí's death, a key date for understanding the city as it is today. One hundred years later, his legacy remains alive and especially present in the Sagrada Familia, which continues to progress towards new phases of completion.
Visiting Barcelona this year is an exceptional opportunity to rediscover his work, with exhibitions, cultural activities, and a fresh perspective on one of architecture's greatest geniuses. Find more information here.
Barcelona from the Eixample
Choosing a hotel in the center of Barcelona, such as Barcelona Century Hotel, allows you to explore iconic places like the Sagrada Familia in comfort, but also enjoy the authentic character of the Eixample, one of the city's most representative neighborhoods.
Here, every walk connects past and present, and every building tells a story.
Local tip: Take time to observe the Sagrada Familia from different angles. In Gaudí's centenary year, every visit becomes an even more meaningful experience.
⚠️VERY IMPORTANT Plan your visit to Barcelona in advance
Barcelona is full of amazing places you won't want to miss, but many of them require advance booking due to high demand.
We recommend booking your Sagrada Familia tickets in advance. You can do so here, avoiding queues and allowing you to enjoy the city at your leisure.
