A controversial legacy
The construction of the Jesus Tower, the tallest of the iconic Sagrada Família, has sparked an intense debate among architects and art lovers in Barcelona. Carolina B. García, associate professor at the Technical School of Architecture of Barcelona (ETSAB), has expressed her disagreement with the current approach to the project, noting that one of the most crucial elements has not been adequately considered: natural light.
García highlights that Antoni Gaudí, the genius behind this masterpiece, broke with Gothic conventions by proposing an organic and living architecture. “For him, a building does not need buttresses to stand,” García asserts. However, she criticises that in the central transept where the tower rises, the lighting is artificial, which she considers a betrayal of the original spirit of the design.
Despite her criticisms, García acknowledges the historical and cultural value that the Sagrada Família represents. The architect recalls how her grandmother used to walk past this monument in 1957 when it was still unfinished. “It was what Joan Maragall wanted: a temple definitely unfinished,” she reflects.
The debate over the Jesus Tower has also rekindled discussions about architectural legacy in Barcelona. García mentions figures like Juan Eduardo Cirlot and Ricardo Bofill, who have defended and championed Gaudí's figure over time. “Bofill stated that Gaudí is the most important architect in history,” García recalls.
Despite the disagreement over certain technical and aesthetic aspects, Carolina B. García celebrates that Barcelona is recognised as World Capital of Architecture. “It is essential that these debates exist; they allow us to reflect on our cultural identity,” she maintains.
As construction progresses, opinions continue to divide between those who support the current decisions and those who call for a return to the fundamental principles established by Gaudí. The question remains: are we truly honouring his legacy or are we committing a regression? Meanwhile, the people of Barcelona continue to watch how this monumental work unfolds with mixed feelings.
You may also like
