The Nativity Facade and the Glory Facade are striking features of the famous Sagrada Familia Basilica in Barcelona, Spain.
The two facades are la Sagrada’s highlights and, due to their popularity, are often considered major attractions in their own right.
Visitors often wonder which facade is better. If this question has bothered you, too, we are here to help!
Read more and find out in detail as we compare the Nativity and Glory Facades, considering different aspects.
Nativity vs Glory Facade – Our Recommendation
The Nativity and Glory Facade are exemplary examples of architectural superiority, artistic excellence and cultural significance, so choosing one from them is impossible!
These facades have towers over them that provide excellent views, and if you are wondering which one is better in general and for the views, we’re here to help.
Our ideal recommendation is to explore both, and it is doable since both the facades are within the same attraction, but visitors often ascend just one.
Quick Comparison
The Nativity Facade
Height: 60 meters (197 feet)
Design: Organic, Vibrant, and full of Intricate Details
Construction Period: 1894 to 1930
Symbolism: Jesus’s Birth
The Glory Facade
Height: will be the tallest at 100 meters (328 feet)
Design: shall be grand and luminous
Construction Period: 2019- Ongoing
Symbolism: Christ’s Eternal Glory
Nativity Facade vs Glory Facade – Which Tower is Taller
In the height spectrum, the Glory Facade emerges as a clear winner.
The Nativity Facade is approximately 60 meters (197 feet) long, whereas the Glory Facade is expected to be approximately 100 meters (197 feet) long.
Nativity Facade vs Glory Facade- Where Do You Get the Best Views
The Nativity Facade offers stunning views of Barcelona City and the Mediterranean Sea, including famous attractions like Montjuic Hill and The Torre Glories.
On the other hand, since the Glory Facade is still under construction, it is difficult to talk about the exact views from it in detail.
However, since the Glory Facade will be much taller than the Nativity Facade, it is safe to assume that it will offer even more impressive views.
At 100 meters tall, visitors can expect views extending farther than those visible from the Nativity Facade, which includes more famous attractions and landmarks in and around the city.
Nativity Facade vs Glory Facade- Designs and Sculptures
The Nativity Facade has a grand and extravagant appearance and boasts several sculptures and ornate details.
The Nativity Facade also showcases the themes of the Nativity and the central themes of Jesus’ life, like his birth, the Magi’s adoration and the Annunciation.
The Glory Facade’s designs and sculptures starkly contrast the appearance of the Nativity Appearance.
The Glory Facade has a skeletal appearance that looks like a skeleton holding the figures together.
The sculptures and intricate details of the Glory Facade represent the last moments of Jesus’ life, including moments from the Last Judgement, which means heaven and hell.
The Glory Facade also intends to represent the theme of the resurrection.
Therefore, if you intend to explore intricate and fine details, such as the folds of the wings and Mary’s robes, then you would like the Nativity Facade more.
However, if you want to see macabre themes and explore skeletal-like figures, you would appreciate the Glory Facade more.
Nativity vs Glory Facade – Final Verdict
The ideal way to make the most of your trip is to explore the attraction’s facades and everything else it has to offer.
However, visitors do not have the option to explore the Glory Facade as it is still under construction.
Head to the Nativity Facade and explore the sculptures, the church and the tower to make the most of your trip with a promise to return later to see the Glory Facade in all its glory.
Contents
FAQs
1. Which is the better, the Nativity Facade or the Glory Facade?
The Glory Facade, still under construction, will be the tallest facade at Sagrada Familia.
Its height is expected to be 100 meters (328 feet).
2. Which ticket should you buy to visit Nativity and Glory Facade?
The basic entry ticket for Sagrada Familia does not include access to the Nativity Facade or the Glory Facade.
Opt for the tower access tickets to visit either of the facades.
You can either opt for a skip-the-line entry ticket or a guided tour.
Note that this included an entry for only one facade.
3. How tall is the Glory Facade going to be?
The Glory Facade is going to be around 100 meters tall.
4. When was the Passion Facade completed?
The Passion Facade was completed in 1976.
5. When will the Glory Facade be completed?
The Glory Facade is expected to be completed in 2026. Its construction started in 2002.
6. Which was the first Facade to be built inside the Sagrada Familia?
The Nativity Facade was the first facade to be built inside la Sagrada Familia. It was also the first and the only facade Gaudi saw being built before him.
7. What is the best time to explore the Facades at the Sagrada Familia?
The best time to explore the facades at the Sagrada Familia is early morning on weekdays.
The attraction gets crowded around noon and later during the weekends.
8. How can I explore the Glory Facade?
Visitors cannot explore the Glory Facade currency as it is not accessible to visitors since it is still under construction.
Featured Image: X.com/sagradafamilia, Wikimedia.org