The Sagrada Familia metro station in Barcelona has recently banned the recording of TikTok videos on its premises. This decision was made in response to a viral trend where visitors were placing their phones on escalator steps to capture a view of the Sagrada Familia in the background as they emerged above ground. Concerns were raised about the distraction this trend was causing, which could potentially lead to accidents or injuries at the station.
The decision to ban TikTok videos was made by the Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB), the public transportation department, as a safety precaution. While no incidents have been reported yet, non-TikTokers at the station have experienced related inconveniences. The church itself had no involvement in the decision, as the issue was happening outside its premises. Secure personnel have been stationed at the station to enforce the ban and ensure the safety of visitors.
Despite the ban on recording TikTok videos at the Sagrada Familia metro station, tourists will not face fines for doing so. However, they will be stopped by local authorities if caught in the act. Travelers can still recreate a similar version of the viral trend by holding their phones out with their hands, using a selfie stick, or having a friend assist them in capturing the view of the iconic Basilica. The church is expected to be completed in 2026, with construction having begun in 1882 and only 10% to 15% completed by the time architect Antoni Gaudi passed away in 1926.
The Sagrada Familia Basilica is an iconic Roman Catholic church in Barcelona and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Despite being unfinished, the church has become one of the most recognizable tourist attractions in the world, drawing over 4.7 million visitors last year. Once completed, the Sagrada Familia will be the tallest church in the world, surpassing Ulm Minster in Germany. With its intricate architecture and rich history, the Basilica continues to attract visitors from around the globe, seeking to admire its beauty and significance.
