The Nativity Façade doors

(The third of my posts about the Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família in Barcelona.)

On the Nativity façade the portico is composed of three entrances devoted to the three Christian virtues: the Faith (to the right), the Hope (to the left) and the Charity (in the centre); each designed by Japanese sculptor, Etsuro Sotoo; decorated with plants, insects and small animals in the style of Gaudí.

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Faith on the right  is covered in roses with birds and butterflies and is devoted to the Virgin Mary.

Charity in the centre is a double door which depicts Christian Love/Charity with the Holy Family and nativity scene as the focus of the sculptures above. It was the first to be installed and includes ivy leaves and what looks to me to be Virginia creeper, squash flowers and lily flowers as well as numerous insects. The tree of life grows up through the middle of these doors.

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The left represents Hope and is dedicated to St Joseph. It is what I call the Iris door as it is full of beautiful iris flowers, lily flowers, bamboo, butterflies, terrapins and other aquatic creatures and insects.

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I found it difficult to tear myself away from the outside to actually go inside.

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Heyjude

I have lived in the UK for most of my life, but when young I definitely had wanderlust and even ended up living in South Africa for several years which was a wonderful experience. I now look forward to a long and leisurely retirement doing what I like most - gardening, photography, walking and travelling.

16 thoughts on “The Nativity Façade doors”

  2. I think you could probably have a unique blog just about this amazing building. There is certainly enough detail to keep it interesting. Now if I just lived in Barcelona…
    Best wishes, Pete. x

  3. I’m so glad I reconnected with your travel blog. This series on Sgrada Familia alone makes it not to be missed. Beautifula photos of an amazing subject.

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