A detailed guide to attending Holy Mass at the Sagrada Familia

Visiting the Sagrada Familia is awe-inspiring on any day, but attending a mass here is a whole different experience. The stained glass glows, the organ fills the vast nave, and the basilica feels more intimate, more alive.

Every Sunday, the church holds free masses, celebrated in various languages and open to all. Seating is limited, so arrive at least 45 minutes early to secure a spot. Whether you're attending for worship or simply to soak in the atmosphere, mass at the Sagrada Familia offers a rare chance to experience Gaudí’s masterpiece as it was meant to be felt—sacred, soaring, and full of spirit.

Where is the Sagrada Familia mass held?

Mass at Sagrada Familia

There are two altars at the Sagrada Familia church: the Main Altar and the Crypt Altar. Masses are held at both.

The international mass is at the main altar. You can enter using the entrance on the Nativity façade (Carrer de la Marina).

Masses are also held daily in Catalan and Spanish at the Crypt of the Sagrada Familia. You can gain access to this altar via 318 Sardenya Street.

About Sagrada Familia entrances

Sagrada Familia Mass times

  • International Masses: Every Sunday at 9 am
  • Crypt Masses: Monday to Saturday at 9am (Catalan) and 8pm (Spanish)
    • On Sunday and during festivals: 9am, 11:45am, and 8pm in Spanish; 10.30am, 1pm, 6:30pm in Catalan
  • Extraordinary Masses: Take a look at the calendar of masses for schedule details

Checkout Sagrada Familia hours

Types of masses at Sagrada Familia

International Masses

Every Sunday, the Archdiocese of Barcelona holds an International Mass in the heart of the basilica, beneath the stunning forest of columns and stained-glass light. This service is conducted in multiple languages and offers a peaceful, reflective way to experience the sacred space Gaudí envisioned.

Where is it held? Main Basilica (central nave).

How to attend? The mass is free and open to all, no reservations are required but seating is limited. Arrive at least 45 minutes early to ensure you get a spot.

Sagrada Familia's dress code

Crypt Masses

Tucked beneath the basilica lies the historic Crypt of the Sagrada Familia, the oldest part of the church and Gaudí’s final resting place. The crypt also houses the revered image of Our Lady of Montserrat, known as the Black Madonna. These masses are smaller, more intimate, and held in Catalan or Spanish.

Where is it held? The crypt, below the basilica’s Nativity Facade.

How to attend? You don’t need a ticket to attend. Just head to the Crypt entrance on Carrer de la Marina. Be sure to dress appropriately for the service.

Extraordinary Masses

On select feast days and major religious celebrations, the basilica hosts Extraordinary Masses, sometimes attended by bishops, cardinals, or even visiting dignitaries. The atmosphere is ceremonial and deeply spiritual, often accompanied by special choral performances or liturgical traditions.

Where is it held? Main Basilica (occasionally in other sections).

How to attend? These masses are invitation-only and often free, with limited online registration available on a first-come, first-served basis. Details and instructions are published in the official calendar of masses at the start of the year. Many are also live-streamed, so you can watch them online from anywhere.

Frequently asked questions about attending Sagrada Familia Mass

Yes, anyone can attend a mass at Sagrada Familia. They are free to attend, however, the church does get crowded, so if you want to attend, you should arrive early.

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