The Sagrada Familia Crypt, located within the church’s foundation and lower section, is the oldest part of the basilica that was completed in 1889. It has been an active site of worship for over a century and houses the resting place of Antoni Gaudí. The crypt's floor plan is nothing short of stunning, embodying deep symbolism and religious significance. This site also features a museum and offers an architectural experience like none other, making it an essential visit for anyone exploring Sagrada Familia. Read on to know what you’ll see at the crypt.
Where is the Sagrada Familia Crypt?
The Sagrada Familia Crypt is situated one level below the Tower of Mary. This semi-circular rotunda, rich in symbolism, contains the main altar and depictions of the Holy Family. When you stand directly under the central vault, look up to see the Keystone featuring the Annunciation relief, where the Angel Gabriel announces the birth of Christ to the Virgin Mary.
Floor plan of the Crypt
The floor plan of the Sagrada Familia Crypt is fascinating. The layout is 30×40 meters, semi-circular in shape. Straight ahead, you'll find five chapels, the center one featuring an altar with the Holy Family representation by Josep Llimona and framed by Gaudí. To the right of the altar are the Chapels of the Holy Sacrament and Our Lady of Carmel. To the left are the Chapels of Our Lady of Montserrat and the Holy Christ, containing the tomb of Josep M. Bocabella. The semi-circular side includes seven more chapels dedicated to Jesus' family members.
Features of the Crypt
When Gaudí took over the project in 1882, he honored the neo-Gothic design of Villar, making some changes without altering the structure. One notable enhancement includes replacing standard Gothic stairs with spiral staircases that connect the crypt to the Basilica’s triforium and vaults. Make sure you see the religious furniture designed by Gaudí, the presbytery chairs, pews, and Gospel lecterns, meticulously crafted in wood and wrought iron. The crypt's interior boasts slender columns that arch like tree branches, creating a tranquil, sacred space. The Roman-style mosaic flooring and altarpieces, including works by Josep Llimona, add to its charm.
Entrance for Sagrada Familia Crypt
The Sagrada Familia Crypt is accessed from Carrer de Sardenya Street. Upon entering, the museum is to your right. Note that public access is restricted to designated hours outside of mass times.
Historical Context
The Sagrada Familia Crypt isn't just a remarkable architectural feat; it's also the final resting place of Antoni Gaudí. His passion and pioneering design principles make the crypt a monument to his genius and a beacon of Barcelona's rich cultural tapestry. You'll spot his tomb under the Our Lady of Carmel Chapel — his chosen devotion.
Did you know the crypt once had an organ from 1926, obliterated during the Civil War? Now, thanks to the Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, the crypt boasts a phenomenal 1896 Cavaillé-Coll organ — the only one in Catalonia. Expect its magnificent, romantic tones to make your visit unforgettable.
Mass at Sagrada Familia Crypt
Daily masses are held in Catalan and Spanish at the Crypt of the Sagrada Familia. Access the altar through 318 Sardenya Street. Reservations are not required. The schedule is as follows:
- Weekday services include 9am (Spanish), 10am (English), and 8pm (Catalan).
- On Saturdays, mass is at 9am (Spanish)
- Sunday services are at 10:30am (Catalan), 11:45am (Spanish), 1pm (Catalan), 6:30pm (Catalan), and 8pm (Spanish).
