Sagrat Cor Barcelona | A Complete Guide

Sagrat Cor Barcelona

The Temple of Tibidabo, also known as the Temple of Expiatori del Sagrat Cor de Jesus is a Roman Catholic church in Barcelona, Spain's Catalonia. It was founded in 1961. The Sagrat Cor church is the luminous structure at the highest part of Barcelona's greatest mountain, Mount Tibidabo, which overlooks the city from the west. Entry to Sagrat Cor and the crypt within is free, you will only have to pay a small fee of €3 to use the lift and go to the top to see the views.

Why Visit Sagrat Cor Barcelona?

Sagrat Cor Barcelona Highlights

History of Sagrat Cor Barcelona in a Nutshell

  • The idea of building a Catholic church on Mount Tibidabo's summit first arose in the late 1800s.
  • Saint John Bosco had the idea of constructing a structure dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus when he visited Barcelona. While there is no direct historical evidence of Sagrat Cor, the Temple's construction was an act of defiance. Sant Joan Bosco overcame all odds to build Sagrat Cor, fearing that a Protestant temple would be built in the area. The Board of Catholic Knights bought the land and gave it to John Bosco. A chapel was built over time, and work on the Temple of the Sacred Heart began in 1902. Villavecchia started the project, and Vidal finished it in 1961.
  • However, due to the development of a new project to build an astronomical observatory on Tibidabo's summit, which was eventually built on a nearby hill, the church construction project was postponed indefinitely.
  • Finally, on December 28, 1902, the very first rock was laid in a ceremony presided over by Bishop of Barcelona, Salvador Casaas I Pagès.
  • Between 1903 and 1911, the crypt was built, and between 1915 and 1951, the main church was built. The towers were completed after that, and the project was officially completed in 1961. 

Plan Your Visit to Sagrat Cor Barcelona

Visitor Tips

  • Although there is no formal dress code at Sagrat Cor, because it is a place of worship, an informal dress code is observed. Short clothing is not permitted, and both men and women must cover their shoulders. Men are asked to remove their hats during certain religious services and holidays, while women are asked to cover their heads.
  • Restraints have been put in place at the regional level.
  • Travel between regions is permitted.
  • Wear a mask before visiting Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor.
  • Explore the Tibidabo Amusement Park which is nearby.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sagrat Cor

Located on Mount Tibidabo in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain, minor basilica and the Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor is a Roman Catholic church.