The Sagrada Familia, one of the most famous works of Antonio Gaudiis an example of Catalan modernist architecture that attracts thousands of tourists at all times of the year. However, there are other places that are less known, but just as impressive. It is known as “mini Holy Family“built by the disciple of the famous architect in a small town in Tarragona, just an hour from Barcelona.
In Montferrilocated in the Alt Camp region, many come to enjoy a rural getaway 32 kilometers from the capital of Tarragona. This picturesque town is surrounded by lush nature that extends from the Sierra del Montmell. But the real reason to visit the place is to admire its temple: the Sanctuary of the Mare de Déu de Montserrat de Montferri.
It may differ quite a bit from the real Sagrada Familia in size, but its style and history are very similar.
The history of the sanctuary dates back to the end of the 19th centurywhen the inhabitants of the town had to travel after the grape harvest to the temple of Montserrat to give thanks to the Virgin for the harvest. A tour for the residents of Montferri and other towns in the 75 kilometer area. Therefore, the Jesuit Daniel Vives decided to build a temple in his hometown and to do so he used the help of an architect cousin and disciple of Gaudí, Josep María Jujol.
In this way its construction began November 15, 1925but this would not end until after 74 years. The first unforeseen event came 6 years after laying the first stone, when the lack of financing meant that they had to suspend construction. Added to this is the start of the Spanish Civil War, which significantly damaged the structure of the temple.
Finally, in the mid-80s its construction was resumed and In 1999 it was officially inaugurated.
The Santuari de la Mare de Déu de Montserrat in Montferri is a magnificent example of Catalan modernismwith a strong influence of natural elements from the Montferri environment, distinctive characteristics of Josep Maria Jujol’s work.
The sanctuary imitates the shape of the Montserrat mountainwith its pointed towers that evoke the characteristic peaks of that massif. This connection with nature is a hallmark of Jujol, who sought to create architecture in harmony with the environment.
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