Passion Facade: A Journey Through Jesus' Final Days

The Facade of the Passion is an impressive portrayal of the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Facing west, this austere Facade is rich in symbolism and curiosities that amplify its grandeur.

Nativity Facade of Sagrada Familia.

Gaudí designed this Facade to convey the fear and brutality of Jesus’ sacrifice. To realize this vision, he employed various geometric shapes with sharp edges, even compromising structural integrity by breaking arches or cutting columns, which created a more somber atmosphere.

The Facade’s sobriety is depicted through bone-shaped columns, enhanced by the dramatic and expressive sculptures crafted by Josep Maria Subirachs. This text will explore the most significant sculptural elements that compose the Facade, along with a brief history and insights into our role in its construction.

"La Pasión de Cristo" illumination display at the Sagrada Familia during Semana Santa in Barcelona, Spain.

History

Work on this Facade began in 1911, while Antoni Gaudí was recovering from a bout of malaria in Puigcerdà. However, it wasn't until six years later that he produced the definitive sketch that would guide future generations.

Isidre Puig i Boada explained what this Facade should look like in 'El pensament de Gaudí'.

Construction of the Passion Facade commenced after Gaudí’s death. He prioritized the Nativity Facade for its more uplifting impact on observers. Excavations for the Passion Facade began in 1954, with the first stones laid in 1956.

The four towers on the Facade were completed in 1976. Following their completion, the focus shifted to the sculptural decoration, a task commissioned to renowned sculptor Josep Maria Subirachs in 1986. Subirachs left a distinct mark through a straightforward yet powerful set of figures. His work spanned from 1987 to 2009.

The final sculptures were placed in 2018, marking the end of a remarkable 60-year endeavor.

Key Features of the Passion Facade

If we shift our gaze from the Facade and look upwards, our attention is immediately drawn to the majestic towers that command the Barcelona skyline. Each tower on the Holy Family’s three Facades represents one of Jesus’ twelve apostles.

The towers of Sagrada Familia.

On the Passion Facade, the four towers pay tribute to the apostles James the Minor, St. Thomas, St. Philip, and St. Bartholomew. Each tower is adorned with a large statue crafted by Subirachs, positioned approximately one-third of the way up. The two central towers reach a height of 112 meters, while the outer ones stand at 107 meters.

Crucifixion on Passion Facade.

Connecting the two central towers at a height of 60 meters is a bridge, which we were fortunate enough to work on in our workshop. This bridge features a bronze sculpture that depicts the ascension of Jesus Christ, a triumphant scene that provides a striking contrast to the dramatic characteristics of the Facade.

The towers of Sagrada Familia.

Just below, we can observe an abstract dove-inspired sculpture by Subirachs, symbolizing the Holy Spirit and alluding to Christ’s resurrection.

The pediment underneath consists of eighteen columns that support a cornice made of hexagonal prisms, featuring the inscription “Iesus Nazarenus Rex Iudæorum,” which translates to “Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews.” A prominent cross, measuring 7.5 meters high, rises from the upper center of the pediment, accompanied by three angels sculpted by Lau Feliu. One angel shows reverence, another caresses the cross, and the third holds a chalice containing the blood of Christ.

Bible Texts of the Cathedral Walls.

In the corners of the pediment, there are two animal figures: the lamb representing Abraham's sacrifice and the lion of Judah, symbolizing victory over death. Inside the pediment, between the central towers, there is a portrayal of the quarry where Jesus' tomb was excavated, which later transformed into an orchard.

The Facade is bolstered by six columns that slant inward, framing three bronze portals that lead into the temple, symbolizing Faith, Hope, and Charity.

The central portal, representing Charity, features two doors divided by a mainel, displaying the combined symbols of alpha and omega, signifying the beginning and end of Creation in Christianity. The doors are inscribed with gospel passages recounting the final days of Jesus’ life. At the front of the portal stands a column depicting the scourging of Christ, elevated on three steps that represent the three days leading to the resurrection.

Symbols of alpha and omega at the entrance door of the Passion Facade of Sagrada Familia.

The Faith portal depicts Jesus praying in the Garden of Gethsemane while his disciples sleep, with a full moon looming in the upper left corner, foreshadowing his impending death.

Symbols of alpha and omega, signifying the beginning and end of Creation in Christianity.

Lastly, the Hope portal shows Jesus adorned with a crown of thorns, draped in a mantle, and holding a reed as a mockery of his kingship. In another depicted scene, Jesus stands before Herod and Pilate, who are symmetrically positioned opposite each other.

Sculptural Set and Evangelical Meaning of the Facade

Understanding the message of Christ’s death and resurrection requires a close look at the sculptures on the portal, created by Subirachs. While respecting Gaudí’s overall vision, Subirachs adapted the designs to a modern aesthetic, as Gaudí provided few specific details.

In these scenes (above and below), Subirachs pays homage to Antoni Gaudí in two distinct ways. Firstly, the figure of the Evangelist on the left side of the sculpture group mirrors Gaudí’s face as seen in the Corpus Christi procession in Barcelona. Secondly, the soldier's helmets are inspired by the chimneys of Casa Milà.

Subirachs’ arrangement of the scenes diverges from Gaudí’s original proposal, focusing instead on a vertical presentation. The Passion scenes are read in an inverted “S” shape, ascending from left to right, depicting Jesus’ path from the Last Supper to his burial and resurrection.

Columns that remind the ribs.

Theological Terminology Explained

To fully appreciate the depth of the Passion Facade, it's essential to understand the key theological terms depicted:

Resurrection:
- The act of Jesus rising from the dead on the third day after his crucifixion, symbolizing victory over death and the promise of eternal life.

Crucifixion.

Crucifixion:
- A Roman method of execution by which Jesus was nailed to a cross, central to Christian belief as the ultimate sacrifice for humanity's sins.
Golgotha:
- Also known as "The Place of the Skull," this is the hill outside Jerusalem where Jesus was crucified.

Above Jesus, there is a bronze representation of the temple veil from Jerusalem, which was torn at the moment of his death.

Ascension:
- The event of Jesus rising to Heaven forty days after his resurrection, signifying his divine nature and the completion of his earthly mission.
Holy Spirit:
- The third person of the Holy Trinity, representing God's presence and action in the world.

Holy Trinity.

God:
- The supreme being, creator, and central figure of Christian faith.
Psalm:
- Sacred songs or hymns found in the Book of Psalms in the Bible, often expressing worship, lament, or thanksgiving.

I am poured out like water,
And all my bones are out of joint.
My heart is like wax -
It is melted within me.
My strength is dried up like a potsherd, and my tongue cleaves to my jaws.
You have set me in the dust of death.
For dogs have encompassed me;
The assembly of the wicked has encircled me,
They pierced my hands and my feet;
I can count all my bones -
They look and stare at me.
They divide my garments among themselves,
And for my clothing, they cast lots.
But You, Oh, Lord, do not be far from me!
Oh, my Strength, come quickly to help me!

Bible:
- The holy scripture of Christianity, comprising the Old and New Testaments.
Pilate:
- Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor who presided over Jesus' trial and authorized his crucifixion.

Pilate is thinking over the judgment.

Virgin Mary:
- The mother of Jesus, revered for her purity and obedience to God's will.

The sculptural cycle is organized into three levels:

Lower Level

This level features scenes from the final night of Jesus Christ before his crucifixion, including:

The Last Supper: This scene includes an inscription about Judas’ impending betrayal: “Whatever you are going to do, do it quickly.”
Peter and the Soldiers: Illustrates Peter cutting off the ear of Malcus, the high priest's servant.
The Kiss of Judas: Here, a snake represents the devil behind Judas, with a dog symbolizing fidelity. Nearby is a cryptogram, or “magic square,” comprising 16 numbers that total 310 different combinations, representing Jesus’ age of 33 at the time of his death.

Peter stands at the precipice of denial, a tangible tension hanging in the air around him. His expression is one of uncertainty, as if he is grappling with an invisible force that pulls him away from the truth. The gravity of the moment weighs heavily on his shoulders, and his thoughts swirl in a tumultuous storm as he hesitates to confront the reality that lies ahead.

Peter’s Denial: Depicts Peter’s three denials of Jesus, characterized by the rooster beside him and an embarrassed expression. A maze adjacent to the scene symbolizes the path Jesus began towards Calvary.
Ecce Homo: Shows Jesus with a crown of thorns, surrounded by soldiers before Roman governor Pontius Pilate, with the soldiers’ helmets resembling the chimneys of La Pedrera, paying tribute to Gaudí.
Judgment of Christ: Portrays Pontius Pilate washing his hands before sentencing Jesus, signifying his attempt to distance himself from the high priest’s will. Proculus, the governor’s wife, is depicted walking away after failing to intercede for Jesus.

Intermediate Level

This level depicts the Crucifixion of Jesus following his trial, with the events arranged chronologically from right to left. The sculptures featured include:

The Three Marys and Simon of Cyrene: This scene portrays Simon assisting Jesus in carrying the cross as he approaches death. Surrounding him are the three Marys—Mary, the Virgin; Mary Magdalene; and Mary of Cleopas—each expressing a sense of sorrow.

The Three Marys and Simon of Cyrene: This scene portrays Simon assisting Jesus in carrying the cross as he approaches death.

Veronica: In this depiction, Veronica is shown holding a cloth with which she wiped the sweat from Jesus’ brow. The fabric bears an imprint of Christ's face. Notably, Veronica herself is faceless, ensuring that the focus remains on Jesus. An interesting detail of this scene is the presence of an evangelist in the background, whose likeness bears a resemblance to that of Antoni Gaudí.

The Soldier Longinus.

The Soldier Longinus: Here, the centurion is illustrated as the one who pierced Jesus' right side with a spear. From this wound, blood and water flowed, symbolizing the birth of the Christian Church. These elements represent two fundamental sacraments in Christianity: baptism and the Eucharist.

This exploration highlights the depth and complexity of the Passion Facade, merging artistic innovation with profound religious storytelling.

Higher Level

The final row of sculptures depicts the death and burial of Jesus Christ, unfolding from left to right, much like the scenes on the lower level. The depicted scenes are as follows:

Soldiers Casting Lots for Jesus’ Garments: These three Roman soldiers exemplify the typical pastime of gambling, as they compete for the clothing of Jesus Christ.

Soldiers Casting Lots for Jesus’ Garments.

The Crucifixion: This scene is the focal point of the portico and is prominently displayed in the center. Jesus is depicted hanging from an iron cross, marked with a red "I" on the central beam, symbolizing the Latin inscription "INRI." Accompanying him are the three Marys and St. John. At the foot of the cross, a skull represents death and alludes to Golgotha, also known as the "mountain of skulls," where the crucifixion took place. Above Jesus, there is a bronze representation of the temple veil from Jerusalem, which was torn at the moment of his death.

The Crucifixion.

Burial: Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus are depicted laying Jesus' wrapped body in a tomb. In the background, the Virgin Mary is shown with an egg on her head, symbolizing resurrection. Interestingly, the figure of Nicodemus is a self-portrait of the sculptor, Subirachs.

From Scene To Scene

The Head of Jesus in the Museum of Sagrada Familia.

The figures, in travertine and Floresta sandstone, feature hard, severe lines, at times Brutalist and others soft, expressing the coarse, even gloomy effect that Gaudí intended to convey as a representation of the pain of the Passion and death.

Sagrada Familia Logo.

The Last Supper

This scene depicts Jesus sharing his final meal with his twelve apostles before his crucifixion. During this meal, he instituted the Eucharist, breaking bread and sharing wine as symbols of his body and blood, to be remembered by his followers.

The Last Supper.

The Last Supper is central to Christian faith, representing the ultimate sacrifice Jesus was about to make and establishing a ritual of communion for believers. On the Passion Facade, this portrayal marks the beginning of Jesus' final hours, highlighting the solemnity and gravity of the events to come.

Arrest of Jesus

Following the Last Supper, Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray. This scene captures the moment soldiers, guided by Judas Iscariot, arrived to arrest him. It is a moment of intense tension as the disciples are roused from sleep, and violence briefly erupts.

Arrest of Jesus.

The Arrest signifies the formal beginning of Jesus' Passion – his suffering and journey towards crucifixion. It represents the world's rejection of divine love and the human act of betrayal that sets the tragic events in motion.

Betrayal of Judas

Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' apostles, betrayed him with a kiss, a prearranged sign to identify Jesus to the arresting soldiers. This act, performed in the Garden of Gethsemane, sealed Jesus' fate and has become synonymous with treachery.

Betrayal of Judas.

The Betrayal of Judas underscores the themes of disloyalty and sin. On the Facade, the inclusion of symbols like a snake behind Judas and a cryptogram emphasizes the dark, complex nature of this pivotal moment, leading directly to Jesus' capture.

The Flagellation

After being unjustly condemned, Jesus was subjected to flagellation, a brutal Roman punishment involving severe whipping. This physical torment was intended to weaken and humiliate him before his execution.

The Flagellation.

The Flagellation highlights the intense physical suffering Jesus endured on behalf of humanity's sins. On the Passion Facade, the depiction, particularly associated with the column at the central portal, serves as a stark reminder of the brutality inflicted upon him.

Peter's Denial

As Jesus was being interrogated, the Apostle Peter, fearful for his safety, denied knowing Jesus three times, just as Jesus had predicted. Peter's denials occurred before the rooster crowed, marking a moment of profound human weakness and failure in the face of pressure.

Peter's Denial.

Peter's Denial serves as a powerful illustration of human frailty and the struggle between fear and faith. The symbolic rooster and adjacent maze on the Facade underscore the moment of denial and the confused path Jesus was now forced to walk.

The Ecce Homo (“Behold the Man”)

Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, presented Jesus to the crowd after the flagellation, saying "Ecce Homo" (Behold the Man), perhaps hoping to evoke pity. Jesus is shown wearing a crown of thorns and a purple robe, symbols of mockery of his claim to kingship.

The Ecce Homo (“Behold the Man”).

This scene emphasizes Jesus' humility, suffering, and his presentation as a figure of sorrow before the world. The Facade's depiction includes notable details, such as the soldiers' helmets, which reference Gaudí's work, linking the historical event to the architectural tribute.

The Judgment of Pilate

Despite finding no fault in Jesus, Pontius Pilate succumbed to pressure from the crowd and religious authorities, symbolically washing his hands to disclaim responsibility for Jesus' condemnation. He then handed Jesus over to be crucified.

The Judgment of Pilate.

Pilate's Judgment represents the act of passing responsibility and the tragic decision that led to Jesus' death. The portrayal on the Facade, showing Pilate and his wife, highlights the political and personal dimensions of this crucial turning point.

Jesus Falls Before the Three Marys

As Jesus carried the heavy cross towards Calvary, weakened by his suffering, he stumbled and fell. This scene often includes the presence of the grieving women, particularly the three Marys, who witnessed his pain.

Jesus Falls Before the Three Marys.

This depiction underscores Jesus' human vulnerability and immense suffering during his journey to the crucifixion. The presence of figures like Simon of Cyrene assisting him and the sorrowful women emphasizes the burden he carried and the compassion shown amidst the hardship.

"It is here that we receive the call — the mission and challenge of Christ — as He again gazes into the eyes of each one of us." Mons. David Abadías, Auxiliary Bishop of Barcelona.

Jesus Consoles the Women of Jerusalem

While carrying the cross, Jesus paused to address a group of women who were weeping for him. He instructed them not to cry for him, but for themselves and their children, foretelling future suffering that awaited Jerusalem.

Jesus Consoles the Women of Jerusalem.

This encounter highlights Jesus' enduring compassion and prophetic vision, even in his darkest hour. It is a call to acknowledge the deeper causes and consequences of suffering, urging reflection beyond immediate pain towards repentance and future hope.

The details of the stone sculptures in the Sagrada Familia Museum.

Longinus on a Horse

According to tradition, a Roman soldier, often named Longinus, pierced Jesus' side with a spear while he was on the cross to ensure he was dead. This act led to blood and water flowing from Jesus' side.

Longinus on a Horse.

The piercing of Jesus' side fulfills prophetic scripture and represents the final physical assault upon him. Longinus is often depicted on horseback near the crucifixion scene, symbolizing the Roman authority present at Christ's death and his subsequent traditional conversion.

Soldiers Throwing Dice to Win Jesus' Tunic

At the foot of the cross, Roman soldiers cast lots or threw dice to divide Jesus' clothing among themselves, as his tunic was seamless and valuable. This action occurred while Jesus was still suffering on the cross.

Soldiers Throwing Dice to Win Jesus' Tunic.

This scene starkly illustrates the soldiers' indifference and casual cruelty amidst the profound suffering of Christ. It also fulfills an Old Testament prophecy, underscoring the divine plan unfolding even in the most mundane and callous actions.

Crucifixion

This is the central and most significant scene of the Passion Facade, depicting Jesus nailed to the cross on Calvary. He is shown between the two thieves, enduring his final moments of agony and death.

Crucifixion.

The Crucifixion is the core event of the Christian faith, representing Jesus' ultimate sacrifice for the redemption of humanity. The Facade's focal point features symbolic elements, including the INRI inscription, the skull representing Golgotha, and the torn temple veil, all of which emphasize the profound theological significance of this death.

Descent from the Cross and the Entombment

Following his death, Jesus' body was taken down from the cross by followers like Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus. They then prepared his body and laid it in a newly hewn tomb.

Descent from the Cross and the Entombment.

These scenes mark the conclusion of Jesus' earthly life and suffering, portraying the sorrowful care given to his body. The depiction on the Facade includes significant symbols, such as the egg on the Virgin Mary's head, hinting at the coming resurrection, and Subirachs' self-portrait as Nicodemus.

Pediment: Resurrection and Ascension to Heaven

The pediment encompasses the themes of Resurrection and Ascension, although they are often symbolized rather than depicted as explicit narrative scenes, like the lower levels. The Resurrection is Christ's rising from the dead on the third day, and the Ascension is his bodily return to Heaven forty days later.

Pediment: Resurrection and Ascension to Heaven.

These events represent Christ's triumph over death and the completion of his earthly mission. They are central to Christian hope, signifying eternal life and Jesus' divine glory, which is symbolized on the Facade by elements such as the abstract dove and the bronze sculpture on the bridge.

Quarry and Garden

The area where Jesus was crucified and buried was near a quarry and a garden. The tomb itself was often a cave cut into the rock of the quarry.

Jesus crucifixion.

This setting provides the backdrop for the burial and subsequent resurrection. It symbolizes how a place of death and stone (the quarry) became the site of new life and hope (the garden and empty tomb), transforming sorrow into triumph.

Empty Tomb

On the third day after his crucifixion, followers found Jesus' tomb empty, with the burial cloths remaining. This discovery was the first sign that Jesus had risen from the dead.

Pediment: Resurrection and Ascension to Heaven.

The Empty Tomb is the primary physical evidence of the Resurrection, signifying that death could not hold Jesus. It is a powerful symbol of hope and the promise of eternal life for believers, central to the message the Facade ultimately conveys beyond the promise of overcoming suffering.

The Stained-Glass Window of the Resurrection

Located within the basilica behind the Facade, the stained-glass window depicting the Resurrection floods the space with light and color.

The Colorful Stained-Glass Window of the Resurrection.

This architectural element provides a visual and emotional climax to the Passion narrative. As light streams through the window, it symbolizes the brilliance and life of the Resurrection, contrasting sharply with the somberness of the Facade's sculptures and offering a sense of divine presence and hope.

The Black and White Stained-Glass Window of the Resurrection.

Cross and Angels

A prominent cross stands at the top center of the pediment, signifying Jesus' sacrifice. Sculpted angels accompany it.

Cross and Angels.

The cross is the universal symbol of the Crucifixion and Christian faith. The angels surrounding it serve as heavenly witnesses to Christ's death, showing reverence, mourning, and holding symbols of His sacrifice, thereby elevating the event to a cosmic scale.

Holy Spirit

Represented by an abstract dove-inspired sculpture, this symbol is placed beneath the Ascension scene on the bridge.

The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity and a symbol of God's active presence in the world. Its placement near the Ascension and Resurrection alludes to the power and presence of the Spirit, connecting Christ's completed work with the ongoing life of the church and believers.

The Ascension of Jesus

Depicted by a bronze sculpture on the bridge connecting the central towers, this scene shows Jesus rising to Heaven.

The Ascension of Jesus.

The Ascension marks Jesus' return to his divine glory and the completion of his earthly ministry. It provides a triumphant conclusion to the Passion and Resurrection narrative, symbolizing his reign in heaven and offering hope for believers' eventual union with God.

"La Pasión de Cristo" illumination at the Sagrada Familia during Semana Santa in Barcelona, Spain.

The Sagrada Família is brimming with fascinating details and stories, many of which are pretty unusual or less commonly known. Drawing from its history, design, and the controversies it has sparked, here are a few exciting facts about the Passion Facade and the basilica in general:

The Controversial Sculptor and His Style: Josep Maria Subirachs's appointment and his angular, stark sculptural style for the Passion Facade were highly controversial at the time. Critics argued that his modern aesthetic clashed dramatically with Gaudí's organic, flowing forms, as seen on the Nativity Facade. However, this contrast was partly intentional, reflecting Gaudí's desire for the Passion Facade to convey the harshness and brutality of Christ's sacrifice, directly opposing the joyful exuberance of the Nativity.

The Magic Square's Mysterious Sum.

The Magic Square's Mysterious Sum: The 4x4 magic square on the Passion Facade, filled with numbers, is famous because every row, column, and diagonal adds up to 33 – the age of Jesus Christ when he died. What's unusual is that there are several duplicated numbers (10 and 14 appear twice, while 12 and 13 appear three times). This isn't a true mathematical magic square (where numbers usually don't repeat), but a "magic constant" square deliberately designed to achieve the sum of 33, adding another layer of symbolic complexity tied to the narrative. There are theories linking its construction or numbers to other elements of Gaudí's life, adding to its mystique.

Sagrada Familia - the masterpiece of Gaudí in Barcelona.

Gaudí's "Backwards" Design Plan: Gaudí deliberately chose to complete the Nativity Facade first, even though it depicts events before the Passion and Glory. He reasoned that its joyful, ornate style would inspire people and ensure the project's continuation if he didn't live to see it finished. He feared that starting with the somber Passion Facade might discourage potential patrons and the public. It was a strategic, almost psychological, decision about how to build enduring support for his monumental work.

The Passion Facade of Sagrada Familia.

The Architectural "Bones" of the Passion: The article mentioned the "bone-shaped columns," but this goes deeper. Gaudí intended the entire Facade to evoke a skeleton, representing the physical suffering and death of Christ. This is why the architecture itself is stark, angular, and appears almost exposed compared to the richly decorated, organic forms of the Nativity Facade. It's a powerful, nearly visceral, architectural metaphor for death.

This is how a sunset looks inside Sagrada Familia.

Sunset Dramatization: The Passion Facade faces west. Gaudí planned for the low, setting sun to illuminate the Facade's stark sculptures and angles dramatically. This play of light and shadow at the end of the day is intended to enhance the somber and dramatic narrative of Christ's final hours, making the Facade visually and emotionally impactful as day turns to night.

The Passion Facade of the Sagrada Familia by night.

Subirachs's Hidden Self-Portrait: As noted in your text, Subirachs included his likeness in the sculpture of Nicodemus during the Descent from the Cross/Entombment scene. This was a way for the sculptor to place himself within the biblical narrative he was interpreting and leave a personal signature on the monumental work, a practice with historical precedents but always fascinating to discover.

Subirachs's Hidden Self-Portrait.

These details add layers of meaning and intrigue to the already impressive Passion Facade and the Sagrada Família as a whole, highlighting the complex vision behind its creation.

Easter 2025 Light Show on the Passion Facade of the Sagrada Familia.

Having journeyed through the powerful narrative etched in stone on the Passion Facade, from the quiet sorrow of the Last Supper to the ultimate sacrifice of the Crucifixion, visitors are left with a profound sense of the events that underpin Christian faith. Gaudí's visionary architecture and Subirachs' expressive sculptures combine to create an unforgettable experience, prompting reflection on themes of suffering, sacrifice, and redemption. Ultimately, this Facade, culminating in symbols of the Resurrection and Ascension, transcends its somber depiction to offer a powerful message of hope and triumph, leaving an indelible mark on the soul.

Sagrada Familia by night.

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