Sagrat Cor, Barcelona Overview

The Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is an architectural masterpiece. It is also known as the Temple of Tibidabo, courtesy of its location on the highest peak of Mount Tibidabo. Its observation deck offers Barcelona's best vistas.

It is natively named, The Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor de Jesus. Sagrat Cor tops the list for every traveller making their way to Barcelona.With excellent vistas of Barcelona, it can be spotted from any corner of the city. The Temple is open throughout most of the year, but the best time to visit is during the months of Summer and Spring. There is free access to the majority of the spaces and a small fee to pay for the interiors and the lift. The Temple has traces of neo-gothic and modern influences, and its construction was completed in 1961. Bearing aesthetic resemblance with the Basilique du Sacre Coeur de Montmartre situated in Paris, travellers are intrigued by the parallel features. The inside of the Temple is carefully divided into two floors housing highlights such as the crypt, dome, and most prominently, the Statue of Sacred Heart at the very tip. The entire monument is complemented with glass art and intricate stonework. The journey up the mountain is as beautiful as the destination, which is why Sacre Cor is a family favourite.

Ticket Prices of Sagrat Cor

The temple, which includes the crypt and the church has free entry.

The best view of Barcelona can be witnessed from the top of the temple, which is its highest point. Visitors will be required to pay a small fee of EUR 3 to go up the lift.

History and Religious Importance of Sagrat Cor

While there is no out of the box historical trace of Sagrat Cor, the construction of this Temple was indeed an act of rebellion. It was feared that on this vicinity a Protestant temple would be built, and this is why Sant Joan Bosco beat all odds to construct Sagrat Cor. The Board of Catholic Knights bought the land and donated it to John Bosco. Over the years, a chapel was put up, and in 1902 the Temple of Sacred Heart was beginning to be constructed. The project was initially under Villavecchia and was later completed under Vidal in 1961.

Architecture of Sagrat Cor

Sagrat Cor is a prime example of Gothic Revival architecture courtesy of its chief architect Enric Sagnier. It has both Romanesque and modern traces as the stonework of the forts contrasts with the gothic build of the actual temple. Decorated with columns, arches, and the massive dome; Sagrat Cor also has a large tower with four smaller towers.

The entire site is further topped with statues, sculptures, and the Crypt. Like most of the Gothic monuments across Barcelona, Sagrat Cor also has the signature rose windows with glass art. Further, the life of Jesus is also depicted across the stained glass. It is important to note that the Crypt, in particular, has Byzantine influences, making Sagrat Cor not only an architectural wonder but a unique blend of artistic styles.

Dress Code at Sagrat Cor

Sagrat Cor specifies no particular dress code however an informal convention is followed in dressing style, given that this is a place of worship. Both men and women are required to keep their shoulders covered, and short clothing is not preferred. During certain services and religious days, men will be asked to keep their hats off, while women are requested to cover their heads.

Tips

While the journey and tour around is a pleasant experience, visitors can complement their trip by exploring the Tibidabo Amusement Park. It is situated only a short walk away from the church and is worth a visit whether travelling alone or with family.

Timings

November to February - From 11 AM to 6 PM
March, April, May, and October - From 11 AM to 6 PM
June to September - 11 AM to 8 PM
The Crypt is open from 8 AM to 8:15 PM

How To Reach Sagrat Cor

Although Sagrat Cor is situated at the peak of the mountain, there is excellent connectivity through both public and private transport systems.

The best and most convenient way to reach Sagrat Cor is through the Tibibus. The T2A Tibibus departs from Placa de Catalunya and carries both travellers and locals to the top. Another option is the T2B bus leaving from San Genis.
Public transport can also be utilized if visitors take Line 7 of FGC. Getting off at the stop Avinguda Tibidabo, travellers can catch the Tramvia Blau. Upon reaching the Funicular del Tibidabo, visitor can walk up to the destination.
The last option is taking the S1 or S2 of FGC. Visitors can exit at the Peu de Funicular, and take the Vallvidrera. Afterwards, bus 111 can be taken to reach to the top.