Sagrada Família Interior - Forest Columns and Vaults Explained

Gaudí replaced Gothic buttresses with inclined, branching columns that resolve forces internally. Each column’s section morphs (circular → polygonal) as it rises, then splits to support vaults. The result is clarity without external props.

Column Taxonomy

• Materials vary (basalt, granite, reinforced stone) according to load paths.
• Sections rotate as they rise; flutes align with stress trajectories.
• Branching allows shorter spans and lighter vaults.

Vaults and Light Wells

• Hyperbolic vaults admit light through oculi at the nodes.
• The mix of direct and reflected light keeps the nave luminous yet gentle.

Acoustics and Air

• Perforations and surfaces diffuse sound for liturgy and choir.
• Hidden ventilation works with the stack effect to move warm air up.

What to Notice

• The floor plan’s tree-like grid.
• How columns change color and texture with the stained glass cycle.