Sagrada Familia: A Mysterious Masterpiece

The Sagrada Familia is one of the most iconic landmarks of Barcelona, Spain. It is a colossal basilica that has been under construction for over a century, and is expected to be completed by 2026. But what is the story behind this magnificent edifice? And what secrets does it hide within its walls?

In this article, we will explore the history, architecture, and symbolism of the Sagrada Familia, and reveal some of the urban legends that surround it. We will also examine the connection between the Sagrada Familia and the 13-year cycle of change, a concept that suggests that every 13 years, a major transformation occurs in the world.

The Vision of Antoni Gaudí

By Pau Audouard

The Sagrada Familia was designed by Antoni Gaudí, a Catalan architect who was a pioneer of modernism and a devout Catholic. Gaudí was born in 1852 in Reus, near Barcelona, and studied architecture at the Barcelona School of Architecture. He was influenced by Gothic and Romanesque styles, as well as by nature and organic forms.

Gaudí became involved in the Sagrada Familia project in 1883, when he took over from the original architect, Francisco de Paula del Villar. Gaudí devoted his life to the basilica, and made it his personal mission to create a unique and monumental work of art that would glorify God and express his faith.

Gaudí designed the Sagrada Familia as a synthesis of Christian symbolism and Catalan identity. He planned to build 18 towers, representing the 12 apostles, the 4 evangelists, the Virgin Mary, and Jesus Christ. He also envisioned three grand façades, depicting the Nativity, the Passion, and the Glory of Jesus. He also wanted to create a rich interior space, with a Latin cross plan, five naves, and numerous chapels and sculptures.

Gaudí did not leave detailed plans or drawings for his masterpiece. He preferred to work with models and sketches, and to improvise on site. He also relied on his collaborators and assistants, who followed his instructions and vision. Gaudí died in 1926, after being hit by a tram. He was buried in the crypt of the Sagrada Familia, where his tomb can be visited today.

The Mystery of Freemasonry Symbols

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Sagrada Familia is the presence of Freemasonry symbols in its architecture. Freemasonry is a fraternal organization that traces its origins to medieval stonemasons’ guilds. It is known for its secret rituals, symbols, and teachings, which are based on moral and spiritual principles.

Some historians have suggested that Gaudí was a Freemason himself, or that he was influenced by Freemasonry through his contacts and friends. For example, some of his patrons and collaborators, such as Eusebi Güell and Josep Maria Bocabella, were members of Masonic lodges. Moreover, some of Gaudí’s works, such as Park Güell and Casa Batlló, have been interpreted as containing Masonic references.

But what about the Sagrada Familia? How can a Catholic basilica have Masonic symbols? And what do they mean? Some of the most prominent symbols are:

• The All-Seeing Eye: This symbol represents the eye of God or the Great Architect of the Universe, who watches over all creation. It is located on the Passion façade, above the bronze doors that depict scenes from the Passion of Christ.

• The triangle and Compasses: This symbol represents the tools of the stonemason, as well as the virtues of morality and wisdom. It is found on several places on the Nativity façade, such as on the Tree of Life and on the capitals of some columns.

• The Star of David: This symbol represents the Jewish origin of Jesus and Mary, as well as the prophecy of his birth from the House of David. It is also a symbol of harmony and balance. It is placed on top of four towers on the Nativity façade.

• The Pentagram: This symbol represents the five wounds of Christ on the cross, as well as the five senses and elements. It is also a symbol of protection and perfection. It is seen on some windows and pinnacles on both façades.

The Hidden Message Related to Mary

By Canaan

Another fascinating aspect of the Sagrada Familia is the possible hidden message related to Mary, the mother of Jesus. Mary is one of the most revered figures in Catholicism, and she has a prominent role in Gaudí’s design. She has her own tower, which is second only to that of Jesus in height. She also has her own portal on the Glory façade, which is dedicated to her role as mediatrix between God and humanity.

But there may be more to Mary than meets the eye. Some researchers have suggested that Gaudí encoded a secret message in the Sagrada Familia, using numerology and geometry, to reveal the true identity and importance of Mary. According to this theory, Gaudí used the number 13, which is associated with Mary in Catholic tradition, as a key to unlock his message.

The number 13 appears repeatedly in the Sagrada Familia, such as in the number of towers, the number of letters in some inscriptions, the number of steps on some staircases, and the number of sides on some polygons. Moreover, the number 13 is related to the Fibonacci sequence, a mathematical series that generates a spiral pattern that is found in nature and in the Sagrada Familia.

The theory claims that Gaudí used the Fibonacci sequence and the golden ratio, a proportion that is considered aesthetically pleasing and harmonious, to create a hidden geometry that connects the different elements of the basilica. This geometry would point to the central axis of the Sagrada Familia, which coincides with the tower of Mary. Thus, Gaudí would be suggesting that Mary is the center and the source of all creation, and that she holds a secret knowledge that transcends human understanding.

The 13-Year Cycle of Change and 2026

The number 13 is not only significant for Mary, but also for the history and future of the Sagrada Familia. Some observers have noticed that the basilica has undergone major changes every 13 years since its inception. These changes include:

• 1882: The laying of the cornerstone and the beginning of construction.
• 1895: The completion of the crypt and the start of the Nativity façade.
• 1908: The death of Josep Maria Bocabella, the founder and patron of the Sagrada Familia.
• 1921: The completion of the first tower on the Nativity façade.
• 1934: The completion of four more towers on the Nativity façade.
• 1947: The resumption of construction after the Spanish Civil War.
• 1960: The start of the Passion façade.
• 1973: The completion of four towers on the Passion façade.
• 1986: The death of Francesc Quintana, Gaudí’s last living assistant.
• 1999: The completion of the roof and windows of the nave.
• 2012: The completion of six more towers on both façades.
• 2025: The projected completion of all 18 towers.

According to this pattern, 2026 will be another significant year for the Sagrada Familia. It will mark not only the centenary of Gaudí’s death, but also the expected completion of the basilica. It will also coincide with another important event in Catholicism: the Jubilee Year or Holy Year, which occurs every 25 years when certain conditions are met.

The Jubilee Year is a time of grace and forgiveness for Catholics, who can obtain a plenary indulgence by visiting certain churches and performing certain acts. One of these churches is the Sagrada Familia, which was declared a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010. Thus, 2026 will be a unique opportunity for pilgrims from all over the world to visit and admire Gaudí’s masterpiece, and to experience its spiritual and artistic message.

Conclusion

By Karanchawla30

The Sagrada Familia is more than just a building. It is a symbol of faith, culture, and art. It is also a mystery that invites us to explore its secrets and meanings. Whether you believe in Gaudí’s vision or not, you cannot deny its beauty and impact. The Sagrada Familia is a testament to human creativity and perseverance, and a gift to future generations.