Design and construction of the apse on the Sagrada Familia

Abstract

The Expiatory Temple of the Holy Family has now been under construction for over 125 years. Construction on the façade enclosing the apse has recently been resumed, from elevation + 45,00 to + 64,00 m. Work has also begun on the central hyperboloid. This element springs from an inclined plane, between elevations + 60,00 and + 64,00 m, and extends upward to elevation + 77,00 m at the centre of the apse. The pages that follow provide a comprehensive overview of a number of questions respecting the design, engineering, construction and materials involved, as well the innovations implemented, to respond adequately to this challenging endeavour.