Spain’s history of monarchies, occupations and religious movements has left behind an abundance of beautiful landmarks; La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona stands out as an outstanding example.
Cordoba’s magnificent Mezquita Mosque stands as a testament to Moorish beauty.
La Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia, one of Spain’s most breathtaking buildings, is rich with symbolism. Conceived as “the Bible made of stone,” its design incorporates both classical forms and cutting-edge architectural innovations.
Josep Maria Bocabella of Catalonia first had the idea for this church construction, which officially began on March 19, 1882. Gaudi became involved and dedicated himself fully to this work; living nearby and spending his remaining years living and working at its site.
Once completed, Gaudi’s basilica will have 18 towers: 12 represent Jesus’ apostles while four represent those who recorded his Gospels. Unfortunately he passed away before its completion could take place, yet his designs remain. Funded entirely through entrance tickets and private donations it should be complete in 2026 to mark its centennial year of his passing away.
Santiago de Compostela
Though Saint James may never have visited Spain directly, legend has it he was buried there. The discovery of his remains during the 9th century marked a turning point in Christian history; providing a rallying point for Christians scattered around northern Spain against Moorish emirates that invaded.
Santiago de Compostela is one of the world’s foremost pilgrimage sites, featuring one of its mighty cathedrals – Capella de Santo Caliz – which many consider the Holy Grail; an oriental agate stone cup encrusted with jewels which many consider the true representation.
Ruas are narrow streets that wind their way around the cathedral’s museum of sculptures and tapestries from Flemish artists; its cathedral also houses sculptures by them as well. But beyond these landmarks is an incredible legacy: Romanesque and Baroque architectural styles found here have had great impact in shaping Spain, not to mention archaeological finds in this region.
El Escorial
El Escorial offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse into Spain’s past, with its enormous royal palace and monastery (convento), housing Augustinian communities since 1885.
Built by architect Juan Bautista de Toledo and completed by his successor Juan de Herrera, this monumental complex stands as an impressive monument of Spain’s power during the 16th century. Its austere appearance symbolizes King Philip II’s strong religious beliefs as he responded to Catholic Counter-Reformation inspired by Trent.
Built to emulate the Temple of Solomon, this mammoth structure served multiple purposes. From tomb to basilica to pantheon to library to royal palace – its design was intended for all. Philip placed great value on education and knowledge; its vast library represents this commitment; while its gilded pantheon contains bones from four centuries arranged according to an orderly filing system with Charles V and Queen at the top and their sons below, as well as their wives being filed alphabetically below them all.
Segovia
Segovia boasts an illustrious history spanning multiple centuries. Due to its prime position on top of a hill and fertile valleys, Segovia quickly became home to Celtiberians, Romans, Visigoths, Visigoths and Muslim Arabs from various civilizations who eventually settled here.
The Roman Aqueduct in Segovia stands as an impressive symbol of its city. While most Roman aqueducts were underground, this magnificent structure spans across a valley and features double-tier arches; in 1985, it was recognized on the World Heritage List.
Segovia Cathedral (Catedral de Segovia) is an impressive Gothic cathedral which dominates its city’s main square. As one of the last Gothic cathedrals built during this era, its stunning architecture stands as testament to architectural genius.
Discover a medieval castle that looks like something out of a fairy-tale in Segovia – The Alcazar is another UNESCO World Heritage Site serving as fort, royal palace and prison over time.
