The naturalistic sculptures of the Nativity facade of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

A detail of the Nativity facade reveals the extraordinary decorative richness desired by Gaudi. The sculptures represent biblical scenes immersed in a riot of natural elements: palm leaves, flowers, fruits, and animals mix with sacred figures creating a petrified forest effect. In the central niche, figures of saints and apostles can be recognized, while all around the stone seems to come alive with organic forms. Gaudi studied nature at length to reproduce its forms, going so far as to make casts of real plants and animals to achieve maximum realism. This approach makes the Nativity facade unique in world religious architecture.

Barcelona, Sagrada Familia, sculptures, Nativity, nature, Gaudi, details, Spain