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The Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, located on Tibidabo Hill, the highest point in Barcelona (512 meters), is one of the city’s most remarkable religious structures. This iconic building, whose foundation was laid in 1902 and completed in 1961, has become an integral part of Barcelona’s skyline.
History of the Church
The story of the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus dates back to the late 19th century. In 1886, rumors began circulating about an anti-religious group planning to build a luxury hotel and casino on Tibidabo Hill. This caused great concern among the local Catholic community and priests from the Don Bosco order. Acting swiftly, the community and priests purchased the hill and decided to construct a religious structure there. Thus, the foundation was laid for the magnificent church that would rise at the highest point in Barcelona.
The construction of the church took place in three main stages:
First Phase (1902-1911)
During this period, the crypt forming the lower part of the church was constructed. In addition to serving as the foundation of the structure, the crypt functioned as a temporary place of worship until the upper part was completed.
Second Phase (1915-1951)
During this extended period, the main structure of the church was built. However, the construction process was interrupted by the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939). While the building itself was not damaged during the war, all construction activities came to a halt.
Final Phase (1952-1961)
In the final stage of the church’s construction, one of its most striking features, the bronze statue of Jesus, was added. Designed by Josep Miret and installed in 1961, the statue stands approximately 7.5 meters tall.
Architectural Features of the Church
Exterior
Designed by architect Enric Sagnier, the church is a blend of neo-Gothic and neo-Romanesque architectural styles. The most distinctive feature of the structure is the bronze statue of Christ on top. The statue’s outstretched arms are symbolic of embracing all of Barcelona.
Interior Layout
The church consists of two main sections:
– The crypt on the lower floor, built in the Romanesque style
– The main church section on the upper floor, bearing the characteristics of the Neo-Gothic style
Observation Terraces and Viewpoints
While the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus itself is an impressive structure, its stunning city views are also worth seeing. The church has three different observation terraces: a platform located at the top of the crypt, accessible by two sets of stairs; a smaller platform reached by elevator; and a third platform that rotates around the base of the 7.5-meter-high bronze statue of Jesus.
In ideal weather conditions, from these terraces you can see the Pyrenees Mountains to the north, the Costa Brava coastline to the east, and Tarragona to the southwest. Each of the three observation terraces offers unique views and the opportunity to observe Barcelona from different angles. Although you may not be able to see Mallorca, the panoramic view it offers will more than satisfy you.
Getting to the Church
There are several options to reach the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. You can use the Tibidabo Funicular line, travel by the T2A private bus service, or opt for the L7 Metro and S1/S2 Tram combination. The funicular stands out as a frequently preferred transportation option by tourists, especially because of its magnificent views.
Important Points in the Area
There are several important landmarks you can visit in the vicinity of the church. These include Parc d’Atraccions Tibidabo, Serra de Collserola Natural Park, and Observatori Fabra. These sites complement your visit to the church and offer ideal options for those who wish to spend more time in the area.
The Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus has been an important part of Barcelona’s spiritual and architectural heritage for over a century. This magnificent structure, rising to the summit of Tibidabo Hill, stands out not only as an active place of worship but also as one of the city’s most impressive tourist attractions.
If you have come all the way to Tibidabo, don’t forget to visit Parc d’Atraccions Tibidabo. The trip to Tibidabo can be a bit tiring, but if you like heights, now it’s Montjuic Castle’s turn.
Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
Website
https://tibidabo.salesianos.edu
Visiting Hours
Weekdays: 09:00 / 17:00
Weekends: 09:00 / 17:00
Address
Ctra. de Vallvidrera al Tibidabo, 111, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi, 08035 Barcelona
