Day 2 24 December

Got up at 8:00 to a cold and overcast day. Took a shower and ate sandwiches that we bought from a deli store last night. Walked to Catalunya Square and took the Blue Route this time. First stop was at the Sagrada Familia Cathedral, the unfinished masterpiece of Antoni Gaudi. For a bit of histoy, construction started around the 1880's and expected to be completed in 2026. The major portions that have been completed are the eastern and western facades which portray the Nativity and the Passion of Christ. The structure is so breathtaking and has to be seen to fully appreciate Gaudi's vision.

Took lots of pictures inside and outside, rode the elevator to the top of one of the towers and enjoyed the view of the Barcelona skyline. Coming down, visitors have to use a narrow spiral staircase all the way down to the ground. It was so narrow and tight that we had to stop at the lookout points to avoid getting dizzy. Lots of Japanese tourists!!!

Caught the next bus and got off at Park Güell which is a huge garden complex displaying more artworks by Gaudi. His works were patterned after nature and skilfully designed to blend with the landscape. Visitors are greeted by a multi-colored mosaic lizard/salamander fountain at the main entrance as you go up the stairs. The focal point of the park is the main terrace which is surrounded by a long bench in the form of a sea serpent and provides a panoramic view of Barcelona and the ocean. We stayed for a couple hours admiring the different structures and then walked back to the bus stop.

We didn't get off at any of the attractions anymore since it was already getting dark and a bit cold plus the buses were only operating until 5:00 due to Christmas eve. We got off at Catalunya Square, walked to the cathedral to check the mass schedule and also viewed the empty crib, bought some snacks and then walked back to the hotel to rest a bit before going to the midnight mass.

Met up with Lita and Fumio at 10:30 and then walked down the Las Ramblas promenade to view the lights and decorations. The cathedral was almost full when we got there and the vigil service began at 11:00. Also noticed that one of the altar servers was a Pinoy kid. The service was very solemn and we were able to join in using the leaflets that were handed out. At exactly 12 midnight, the bells started ringing including the little ones that are mounted on the wall inside the church which started a lot of the churchgoers (including us). At the end of the mass, the image of the Baby Jesus was carried by the Bishop and placed on the crib for adoration.

Walked back to the hotel afterwards and went to sleep.