| BARCELONA - SAGRADA FAMILIA
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Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Familia (1882 - ) Europe's most unconventional church, it is Gaudi's greatest work. A year after work was begun on a Neo-Gothic church, the task of completing it was given to Gaudi who changed everything, cramming it with symbolism inspired by nature. It became his life's work and he lived on the site for 16 years, buried in the crypt after his death in 1926. Although he saw only the completion of the Nativity Facade and one tower, the work continues following his designs.
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The most complete part of the church is the Nativity Facade, finished in 1904. Scenes of the Nativity and Christ's childhood are embellished with symbolism such as white doves representing the congregation.
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In the late 1980's, the Passion Facade (the Crucifixtion) was completed by artist Josep Maria Subirachs. A controversial work, its sculpted figures are angular and often sinister.
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The final parts of the structure to be built will be the nave and the Glory Facade, which was originally planned as the main entrance. The finished building will be in the form of a Latin Cross. Eight of the twelve spires have been built, each one topped by Venetian mosaics. Still to come is the central tower, which is to be encircled by four large towers, representing the Evangelists. The construction is expected to take another 50+ years.
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