Tom and I arrived home safely after a very long travel day. After decompressing a little (we went to see “the Book of Mormon” on our first night back), I now feel ready to tackle the inside of La Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudi’s masterpiece in Barcelona. As it happens, this post is a lot shorter than I thought it would be because–embarrassingly, for a writer–words failed me.
While the exterior is amazing, intricate and fascinating, the inside is simply indescribable. I can’t imagine why none of the art history courses I took ever showed a photo of the interior. I’m not going to provide the statistics on how big it is, because the numbers could not possibly begin to inform as to the size, scope and vastness of this space.
The east side of the nave has stained glass windows in blues and greens, while the west side windows are in oranges, yellows and reds. We were there in the afternoon, so the light was pouring through the west windows. The stained glass is laid in abstract patterns, not representational images, but the effect of the light was magical. It lit the cathedral in a way that cannot be described with words, and the photos don’t do it justice. The light is both ethereal and dynamic, with an energy that is alive and uplifting. I would like to see the east side in the morning to experience the effect of the light streaming through the cool-colored windows.
Light from the west windows, La Sagrada Familia
Interior, lit by west windows, La Sagrada Familia
Standing on the west side of the nave, looking east, La Sagrada Familia
Western light, La Sagrada Familia
Stairs to the choir loft near the sanctuary, La Sagrada Familia
Even the organ pipes are transformed by the light
While the stonework and other elements are amazing and impressive, for me, the experience was all about the light. I have lots of other photos, and I’d be glad to post them if anyone is interested, but I don’t think I can really say much more about it. The interior of La Sagrada Familia is a miracle of light that so encompassed and raised my spirit that the other details became unimportant. Finis.
obsidianmirrorblog 
Thank you, thank you, thank you. Magnifique! (I know, I know, it’s French…..)
Dina
LikeLike
Thre’s a tiny bit more to come. And of course I’m delighted you enjoyed!
LikeLike
And the photos are mine, Dina, so I am the one who didn’t see the “No photos” sign! Too much to look at, and I missed it even looking at the photo later!
LikeLike
The effect of that light must have been breathtaking. I’m glad you got back safely.
xxx Huge Hugs xxx
LikeLike
Thank you, Lord D. It was breathtaking. Speaking of breathtaking, I hope you are feeling better!
LikeLike