Zaira Mae D.

De Los Reyes
Humanities / Section 5
ART AND RELIGION
(Foreign)

Sagrada Familia is one of the tallest religious buildings in the world. The meaning of the Sagrada
Familia is communicated through the form and expressivity of its architecture and the iconography of
its sculpture. The various architectural elements are imbued with hierarchically organized Christian
symbolism. Thus, each of its 18 towers has a special significance. In the middle is the tower dedicated to
Jesus Christ and around it are four towers representing the Gospels; the books containing the life and
teachings of Jesus. The tower above the apse, crowned by a star, represents his mother the Virgin Mary,
while the remaining 12 towers represent the 12 Apostles, witnesses to his words and deeds.
According to Architect Gaudi “The temple as a whole, as well being a place for divine worship, will
artistically represent the truths of religion and the glorification of God and His Saints”. Gaudi’s conception
of the Sagrada Familia was based on the traditions of Gothic and Byzantine Cathedrals.
Reason:
Art is not only to have an aesthetic for a church, it has a sacred meaning that represents a religion.
Every churches has different styles of art, and it depends on what kind of religion it is and it’s all about
their beliefs. Sagrada Familia is one of the Catholic Church that has a grandiose design of structure and its
façade represents special significance.
 ART AND RELIGION
(Local)

The Monastery of the Holy Eucharist, also popularly known as Simala Shrine or Simala Church,
is a castle-like church located in Marian Hills in Sibonga, Cebu. The design and structure of the church
continue to draw attention to local and foreign tourists. It is more popular due to its unique and
picturesque design, people wouldn’t even think you’re only in Cebu. The church was built in 1998 by the
Marian Monks from Pampanga after the occurrence of several miraculous events in the vicinity including
the shedding of tears by Mama Mary. Because of those miracles, the shrine had been flocked by devotees
and believers of Mama Mary hoping that their prayers and wishes be granted.

Reason:

Architecture contributes a lot of art in different structures. The art which is collaborated by
religion creates an aesthetic vision for a church. Arts do not just represents the visual aesthetics of a
church but it’s the faith of every devotees which is strongly develop. Art also communicates to every
people that’s why most visited churches are not only because of the miracles that happens but also it has
a well-designed structure that attracts many people.
Reference:
http://www.sagradafamilia.org/en/structure-and-form/
http://www.peanutbrowas.com/blog/trip-to-the-simala-shrine