The Basilica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, otherwise known as Sagrada Família, located along Carrer de Mallorca in the Exaimple district of Barcelona, the largest unfinished Catholic church in the world, after more than 140 years of construction will see its basilica’s central tower to be completed and officially inaugurated in 2026, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of Antoni Gaudí,’s death.
Barcelona will see a large section of its most famous monument being finally completed, a masterpiece designed by Catalonian architectural pioneer Antoni Gaudí, renowned for its architectural design that incorporates eighteen spires, symbolically representing the Twelve Apostles, the Four Evangelists, the Virgin Mary, and Jesus Christ in ascending order.
The church which includes in its development various crafts such as ceramics, stained glass, wrought ironwork and carpentry is one of Europe’s most iconic architectural jewels, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and when the central tower finished will then be the tallest Christian church of the European continent.
The central tower will reach 172 metres surpassing Ulm Cathedral, a Gothic Lutheran Church located in Ulm, a city in the state of Baden -Württenberg in Germany, whose Gothic steeple currently stands at 162 metres.
Recent weeks have seen the arrival of the key pieces will form the core of the Jesus Christ Tower’s cross. This central feature will connect the cross’s arms and allow visitors to ascend an interior staircase to the basilica’s summit.
Atop the structure will stand a monumental cross encircled by five smaller towers, one dedicated to the Virgin Mary and four honouring the Evangelists.
According to local newspapers, the General Director of the Sagrada Família Foundation, Xavier Martínez said that installation of the tower’s final section is already underway, with construction advancing in phases over the coming months.
Interior and façade works will continue for several years, and Executive Chairman of the Junta Constructora del Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família Foundation, Esteve Camps said the goal is to complete the entire basilica within the next decade.
Despite the 2026 completion of the main structure, work will continue on decorative details, sculptures, and the main stairway for several more years. The main stairway alone is expected to take until 2034 to complete.
2026 represents an important date for la Sagrada Família, a year which marks the 100th anniversary of the death of visionary architect Antoni Gaudí, who was tragically struck by a tram in 1926.
Antoni Gaudí was the greatest exponent of Catalan Modernisme, famous for his unique, organic style, which was heavily inspired by nature and became the hallmark of this movement.
The architect is best known for several major works in Barcelona, most notaby the Sagrada Família, along with Park Güell, Casa Battló, and Casa Milà. His work is also recognized for its innovative use of materials and technique, such as the trencadís mosaic style which uses broken ceramic pieces.
In recognition of the milestone, the Catalan Ministry of Culture’s Council for the Promotion and Dissemination of the Work of Antoni Gaudí has proposed designating 2026 as “Gaudí Year”.
To commemorate the centenary, the basilica itself will host a series of celebrations highlighting the Catalan architect’s artistic legacy. It will include a solemn mass on June 10, for which Pope Leo XIV has been invited.
The initiative also aims to raise global awareness of Gaudí architectural masterpieces through exhibitions, educational programs, and cultural events across Catalonia.
Construction of the Sagrada Família began in 1882, funded entirely through private donations and visitor revenue. In 2024, the church welcomed 4.9 million visitors, 15% of them from the United States of America, reaffirming its status as one of the most visited landmarks in Europe and in the world and 2026 with the centennal anniversary of Antoni Gaudí,’s death will then be an exceptional year for cultural tourism in Barcelona commemorating and celebrating one of its most prominent artists of all time.
Link
https://www.travelmole.com/news/sagrada-familia-barcelona-gaudi-2026/
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