The Passion Facade Tower at Sagrada Familia offers two breathtaking views.
First, you’ll get a close-up look at Gaudí’s intricate sculptures, where his attention to detail is evident.
Second, the tower provides a stunning panoramic view of Barcelona’s eastern side, showcasing the mountains and a glimpse of the ocean.
Find out more about what you can see from the Passion facade.
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# Sagrada Familia entry + tower access
# Guided tour of Sagrada Familia with tower Access
# Barcelona Pass
What is Passion Facade?
The passion facade, dedicated to the suffering and death of Jesus Christ, is one of Sagrada Familia’s three facades.
Each facade of Sagrada Familia tells a story- the Nativity Facade, full of life and detailed carvings; the Glory Facade, meant to represent Christ’s eternal glory, is still under construction; and the Passion Facade, which is plain and simple, representing Christ’s suffering and crucifixion.
Facing west, the Passion Facade is the only part of the Basilica where straight lines replace Gaudi’s usual flowing designs.
The four towers on this facade are dedicated to the Apostles James, Thomas, Philip, and Bartholomew.
Visitors can climb the Passion Facade Tower, which stands 112 meters high offering amazing views.
From the top, you can see intricate sculptures up close and enjoy a panoramic ocean view, making it one of the best spots to admire Gaudí’s masterpiece.
A Tower access ticket is required to visit the Passion Towers at Sagrada Familia. For a more in-depth experience, we suggest you book a guided tour – the guide won’t come up to the tower, but explain from below.
If you’re unsure about the climb, check out why a Sagrada Familia tower visit is worth it.
Which is better – view from Passion or Nativity Towers?
Passion and Nativity Towers at Sagrada Familia offer unique views- choose your facade based on your preference.
Nativity Tower is best for those who enjoy detailed architecture, as it offers a close-up view of Gaudí’s intricate sculptures. It also provides a panoramic view of Barcelona’s eastern side, including the mountains and a glimpse of the ocean. The afternoon is the best time to visit because of the great lighting.
Passion Tower is ideal for visitors who prefer a wider city view, with a clear sight of the ocean. The sculptures here are skeletal and minimalist, reflecting Christ’s suffering. Unlike the Nativity Facade, this side faces west, so it gets a different light effect.
If you love artistic details, go for Nativity Tower, but Passion Tower is the better choice if you want a broader city and ocean view.
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Best times for great views from Passion facade
Since the Passion Facade faces west, it catches the warm glow of the setting sun, making late afternoon the ideal time to admire its details. During this time, the façade is beautifully illuminated without harsh backlighting, allowing you to appreciate its sculptures fully.
If you reach the Towers after 3 PM, besides clearer views you also experience fewer crowds.
One of the highlights of Passion Facade Tower is its ocean view, offering a stunning sight of the Mediterranean Sea. However, visibility depends on weather conditions, with clear days providing the best experience.
With over 5 million visitors annually, Sagrada Familia can get crowded. To avoid long lines, it’s best to book tickets in advance and check the best time to visit.
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Descending the Passion Tower
Visitors can take an elevator up the Sagrada Familia towers, but the only way down is by walking down the narrow, winding steps. Inspired by nature, Gaudí designed them to resemble a snail’s spiral.
These stairs are inside the tower walls and have no railings.
Along the way, the balcony provides a closer look at the tower’s intricate sculptures.
While they are safe and not too tiring, they are not suitable for people with claustrophobia, physical disabilities, or heart conditions.
Unlike the Nativity Facade Towers, which are connected by a bridge, the Passion Facade Towers stand separately, creating a unique and more isolated experience.
Visitors explore each tower individually without a walkway linking them, making the Passion Tower visit feel distinct from the Nativity side, where the bridge offers a continuous panoramic view.
Antoni Gaudi used faces of actual people for his sculptures? Find out more such fascinating Sagrada Familia facts
For a nighttime visit, consider the evening tour, which includes a glass of Cava.
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