La Sagrada Familia

One of Barcelona's most famous landmarks, La Sagrada Familia is a masterpiece by famed architect Antoni Gaudi, whose goal for the church was to teach people about Catholicism through architecture. Under construction since 1882, La Sagrada Familia is being developed according to the instructions left by Gaudi, who knew he would not live to see it finished. The inside of the church was consecrated by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010. 

La Sagrada Familia's striking silhouette can be admired from various vantage points in Barcelona. Each side of the church looks like a completely different structure. There are three different facades, each telling a different part of Christ's story. Its four towers represent the 12 Apostles, and the intricately carved facades at the base depict the life of Christ, from birth to death and then resurrection. Inside the church are white stone columns and stunning stained-glass windows that let in prismatic strands of light. Hats aren't permitted inside the church, shoulders need to be covered, and skirts must hit mid-thigh at minimum.