Sagrada Família: The Nativity Facade vs. The Passion Facade

For anyone visiting Barcelona, the Sagrada Família is a must-see. The exterior is as majestic as a mountain, and the interior is illuminated by the colorful light refracted through the stained glass windows. The Sagrada Família has three facades: the Nativity Facade, the Passion Facade, and the Glory Facade, which is still under construction. Visitors can only choose one facade to visit, which can be a difficult decision. The Nativity Facade - Location and orientation: Located on the east side of the Sagrada Família. - Theme and story: Focuses on the birth of Christ, vividly depicting the journey from the conception of Mary to the growth of Jesus. It is mainly composed of the Door of Hope, the Door of Mercy, and the Door of Faith, with sculptures that finely depict classic scenes such as the Annunciation, the Birth of Jesus, the Adoration of the Shepherds, and the Adoration of the Magi. - Artistic style: Designed by Gaudí himself, it shows his distinctive personal style, blending naturalism, expressionism, and other diverse styles. The sculptures have gentle and flowing lines, natural and dynamic, with vivid and realistic figures, full of vitality and joy, perfectly setting off the joyful atmosphere of celebrating the birth of Christ. - Architectural features: The facade is rich in architectural details, with the porch carvings and decorations cleverly integrated with natural elements, making it feel like stepping into a magical realm where nature and religion blend. The Passion Facade - Location and orientation: Located on the west side of the Sagrada Família. - Theme and story: Focuses on the death of Christ, depicting in detail the entire process from the Last Supper to the Passion and Ascension of Christ, with an emphasis on the suffering of Jesus on the cross and related biblical stories. - Artistic style: Built by subsequent architects and sculptors based on Gaudí's sketches and models, using modern lines with sharp angles, in stark contrast to the soft style of the Nativity Facade, emphasizing the suffering and tragedy of the Passion of Jesus, with great artistic appeal and visual impact. - Architectural features: The sculptures on the Passion Facade are closely connected to the architectural structure, creating a solemn and solemn atmosphere with unique shapes and lines, allowing visitors to deeply understand the profound meaning of the Passion of Jesus and the solemnity and sanctity of religion.