Sagrada Familia Nativity Facade | Symbolism, History, & More

What is the Sagrada Familia Nativity Facade?

The Sagrada Familia Nativity Facade, designed by Antoni Gaudí, is one of the basilica's three facades.
It depicts the birth of Jesus Christ and is rich in religious symbolism.
Constructed between 1894 and 1930, the Nativity Facade is the only part of the Sagrada Familia built during Gaudi’s lifetime.
The facade is divided into three portals: the left one is dedicated to Joseph, the right to the Virgin Mary, and the middle is dedicated to Jesus.
The Nativity Facade is crowned with four slender towers. With an elevator-access ticket, you can ascend one of these towers to reach a vantage point so high that Barcelona sprawls beneath you in a sea of terracotta rooftops, winding streets, and glimmers of the Mediterranean on the horizon.

History of Sagrada Familia Nativity Facade

The Nativity Facade was conceptualized by Gaudi back in the late 19th century.
Construction started in 1894 and ended in 1930, with a focus on the birth of Jesus Christ.
The facade’s construction faced severe challenges from the Spanish Civil War and limited funding, but the project was never stopped.
The facade depicts scenes from the Bible and the story of the Holy Family.

More about Sagrada Familia's history

Architectural highlights of Sagrada Familia Nativity Facade

Designed by Gaudi

The Nativity Facade is the only one designed by Catalan designer Gaudi and built during his lifetime.

Sagrada Familia Nativity Facade - Birth of Jesus

Birth of Jesus Christ

The facade depicts the birth of Jesus Christ, featuring sculptures and reliefs.

Multiple elements

The Nativity Facade includes the Holy Family, shepherds, and angels. It emphasizes naturalistic details.

Sagrada Familia Nativity Facade - Tree Trunk Column

Unique tree trunks

Gaudí was motivated by organic forms, which is evident in the Nativity Facade's design. The columns resemble tree trunks, giving it a lively form.

Views from Sagrada Familia Nativity Facade tower

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Barcelona’s landscape

From the top, Barcelona unfolds like a living tapestry of streets, squares, and glinting sea.

Montjuïc Hill

Montjuïc Hill is the center of cultural events in Barcelona, and played a pivotal role during the 1992 Summer Olympics.

Torre Agbar

The Nativity Facade also offers mesmerizing views of Torre Agbar, a distinctive skyscraper resembling a shimmering glass and aluminum water droplet.

The Mediterranean Sea

Sagrada Familia’s Nativity Facade is the perfect spot to watch time swing by the mighty Mediterranean Sea.

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Sagrada Familia Fast-Track Tickets

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Sagrada Familia Fast-Track Guided Tour

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1 hr. - 2 hr.

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Sagrada Familia Fast-Track Guided Tour with Towers Access

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1 hr. 30 min. - 2 hr.

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Combo: Park Güell + Sagrada Familia Hosted Entry Tickets

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Combo: Park Güell + Sagrada Familia Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

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3 hr. - 4 hr. 30 min.

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Combo: Park Güell + Sagrada Familia Fast-Track Tickets

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Visitor tips for Sagrada Familia Nativity Facade

The Nativity Façade faces the east, which means it’s beautifully lit by the morning sun. Arrive early to see the intricate carvings glow with golden light, it's also perfect for photos and peaceful moments before the crowds arrive.
This façade is bursting with life, joy, and intricate symbolism. From animals and angels to scenes of the Holy Family’s early life, the details are worth lingering over. Bring binoculars or zoom in with your camera to spot tiny carvings you might otherwise miss.
With a guided tour with tower access, you can take the elevator up one of the Nativity towers and enjoy panoramic views of Barcelona and a close-up look at the towers’ intricate designs. Note: you’ll descend by stairs, so wear comfortable shoes.
For the best full-view photo of the Nativity Façade, cross to the small park right in front of the basilica, Plaça de Gaudí. The reflection of the church in the pond, especially in the morning light, makes for a postcard-worthy shot.
Sculptures and artworks at the Nativity Facade are essential to the culture of Barcelona. Refrain from touching them.