Antoni Gaudí takes over work on the Sagrada Família

Background. The Sagrada Família was inspired by bookseller José María Bocabella, founder of the Asociación Espiritual de Devotos de San José. Construction began on 19 March 1882 under architect Francisco de Paula del Villar, who planned a standard Gothic revival church. The apse crypt was completed before Villar's resignation, setting the stage for a major design change.

Architectural Transition. Francisco de Paula del Villar resigned on 18 March 1883 due to disagreements with the construction board. Antoni Gaudí assumed responsibility for the design, transforming the project with his unique style combining Gothic and curvilinear Art Nouveau forms. Although he began work in November 1883, he was not officially appointed Architect Director until 28 March 1884.

Design Evolution. Gaudí completely redesigned the project, retaining only the crypt that had already been built. His approach differed significantly from Villar's standard Gothic plan, introducing a distinctive architectural and engineering style. This transition marked the beginning of Gaudí's long-term influence on the basilica, which would later be recognized for its exceptional creative contribution to architecture.