One of the most iconic structures ever built, Barcelona’s La Sagrada Familia is a unique and fascinating architectural project conceived by Antoni Gaudi in the late 19th century. More than 125 years after construction began, the basilica still remains unfinished. Sagrada: The Mystery of Creation celebrates Gaudi’s vision and the continuing work of architects as they strive to complete the colossal project while delving into the process of artistic creation in a historical context.
La Sagrada Familia was commissioned by the Order of St Joseph in 1882. After conflicts arose between the Order and the original architect, 31 year old Antoni Gaudí was hired to complete the design. A devout Catholic and architectural prodigy, Gaudí envisioned a place of worship that combined elements of classic French Gothic style and the curvilinear, organic aspects of the budding Art Nouveau school.
Despite decades of delays, thousands of artisans, laborers, and designers have contributed to the ambitious and glorious landmark. Inspired by Gaudí’s vision, the film explores our fundamentally human search for the meaning of existence, and the quest for creative expression.
In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the Catalonian metropolis, the documentary investigates the structural developments of the Sagrada Família while allowing the audience time to observe, perceive, and reflect upon the historical, artistic and personal significance of the basilica.
WINNER! Special Prize for Outstanding Performance on Cultural History, 2013 Erasmus EuroMedia Awards, Vienna, Austria
“Captivating!” – Le Matin
“Much more than a film about a church.” SonntagsZeitung
“One of the most unusual documentaries of the year… a philosophical meditation on art, design and time. Beautiful! – Tribune de Genève
“Dense, diverse, information-rich and yet beautiful magical… a stirring ode to the creative power of people and their genuine ability, defying all kinds of adversity to work together to create something great.” – Landbote
“A sensory and philosophical experience of sublime beauty.” – Le Nouvelliste