Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Família has reached a historic milestone. After 144 years of construction, the final major tower — the Tower of Jesus Christ — is now complete, bringing the basilica to its full height of 172.5 meters (566 feet) and making it the tallest church in the world.
Designed by the legendary Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, the Sagrada Família began construction in 1882 under architect Francisco de Paula del Villar. Gaudí took over the project a year later and radically transformed its design, combining Gothic architecture with organic forms inspired by nature. When Gaudí died in 1926 at the age of 73, only one of its towers had been completed.
The newly completed Tower of Jesus Christ is crowned by a massive cross measuring approximately 17 meters in height and weighing around 100 tons. Manufactured in Germany, the cross was transported to Barcelona in 14 prefabricated sections made from concrete and stainless steel, combining modern engineering with Gaudí’s original vision.
A Century in the Making
The tower’s completion coincides with the centenary of Gaudí’s death. On June 10, 2026, Pope Leo XIV will preside over a Solemn Mass and blessing ceremony at the basilica — an event attended by Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez. The pope is visiting Spain from June 6 to 12, and the Sagrada Família mass marks the centerpiece of his itinerary.
Pope Francis declared Gaudí venerable in April 2025, advancing the architect’s cause for sainthood. Once called God’s Architect, Gaudí’s deep Catholic faith is reflected throughout the basilica’s intricate design.
Challenges Along the Way
The extraordinary construction timeline can be traced to several major obstacles. In 1936, during the Spanish Civil War, anarchists attacked the church and destroyed many of Gaudí’s original drawings, models, and architectural plans. Future architects were forced to reconstruct his ideas using surviving fragments, photographs, and notes.
Unlike most major cathedrals, the Sagrada Família was conceived as an expiatory temple, funded entirely through private donations rather than government money. For much of its history, limited funding slowed progress considerably. Today, the project is largely financed through ticket sales and tourism revenue.
The COVID-19 pandemic also caused significant disruption when visitor numbers collapsed, temporarily reducing the tourism income that fuels construction.
What’s Next?
Although the church has reached its intended maximum height, work continues. Construction teams are still working on interior elements, decorative details, and the controversial Glory Façade. Some estimates suggest final works could continue until 2035.
A record 4.87 million people visited the Sagrada Família in 2025, generating over $150 million in ticket revenue. For fans of Barcelona and architecture enthusiasts, the completion of Gaudí’s masterpiece represents one of the most significant cultural milestones in modern European history.