Spiritual and material questions are raised by the construction of the cathedral in Barcelona.

Picture gallery

Construction on the Sagrada Familia began in 1882 and Antoni Gaudi took over its direction starting in 1883. With a personal vision, the brilliant architect realized very early that he would not be able to complete his work during his lifetime. To prevent the site from being abandoned after his death, he intentionally began work on the exterior façade and not the central nave. The construction, financed only by donations, was interrupted several times when the money ran out. Does building a cathedral still make sense in our times? It is necessary to have faith to continue? Must Gaudi's plans be followed to the letter, or only in spirit?

Director Stefan Haupt climbs high enough in this very detailed documentary so that the audience can feel concern for the project. Theologians, architects, sculptors, masons – they all get to share their view of the importance of this collective work, which is taking its course independently of its creator. Set to J.S. Bach's mass in C minor, Haupt suggests that a cathedral should have its place in our times, now more than ever...