Gaudí Centenary: “Architecture has a divine breath that makes you discover the existence of God”
“Gaudí's architecture has a divine breath that makes you discover the existence of God.”
José Manuel Almuzara, architect and main promoter of the beatification of Antoni Gaudí, reflects on the Catalan genius and his profound faith. He explains how the observation of nature and mercy defined Gaudí’s work, and reveals the progress in his cause for sainthood, which could culminate in 2026.
Architect José Manuel Almuzara, an expert in the work and spirituality of Antoni Gaudí, recalled the beginning of his Gaudinian vocation 50 years ago in Barcelona. While in his fifth year of studies, he was invited to work with Luis Bonet Garí, which allowed him to meet great disciples of the master, such as Isidre Puig Boada. This early experience not only enabled him to learn architecture but also to fall in love with the man, the architect, and, fundamentally, the Christian who stood behind his works.
Almuzara delved into Gaudí’s relationship with nature, which he considered his only teacher, citing how the architect discovered its laws in the vineyards and mountains of Prades during his childhood. This capacity for wonder and observation was key, as it taught him that nature operates under laws that he applied to his architecture. The most evident result is the interior of the Sagrada Familia, conceived as a stone forest, where the columns imitate trees to support the structure. Gaudí always saw himself as a collaborator in God's creation, not as an inventor of new forms.
“The Sagrada Familia must serve to awaken dormant hearts from their lukewarmness, exalt faith, and give warmth to charity.”
The expert insisted on the need to go beyond architectural aesthetics and understand Gaudí’s profound symbolism, focusing on the 'why and what for' of every element. Almuzara highlighted the power of Gaudinian architecture to move people spiritually, even non-believers. He recalled the founding charter of the Sagrada Familia, which establishes that the basilica must 'awaken dormant hearts from their lukewarmness, exalt faith, and give warmth to charity.' If the work does not fulfill this spiritual end, its essential purpose would not be achieved.
Regarding the cause for beatification, Almuzara recalled that the association he founded in 1992 to promote Gaudí’s sainthood is now canonical and depends on the Archbishopric of Barcelona, under the presidency of Cardinal Omella. This change facilitated Pope Francis declaring Gaudí Venerable in April 2022, recognizing that he lived the virtues to a heroic degree. Almuzara remains optimistic, sensing that the beatification could coincide with the centenary of Gaudí’s death, on June 10, 2026, noting that a miracle has already been presented.
“He always felt himself to be a collaborator in God's creation, not a man who invents anything, but one who discovers and applies.”
Finally, the latest constructions at the Sagrada Familia were addressed, including the upcoming inauguration of the Jesus Christ Tower. Almuzara revealed a significant detail about Gaudí’s Marian devotion: the construction of a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin in the northern section, a more intimate space. This chapel, as transmitted to him by Bonet Garí, would serve as a 'back door' for those who, feeling like sinners, could approach God through His Mother. This devotion is consistent with Gaudí’s well-known mercy, which was manifested in works such as the provisional schools for the workers’ children.