Barcelona, Spain – Barcelona’s most iconic structure—the Sagrada Família basilica—is finally set to reach completion in 2026, marking a monumental moment in architectural history. More than 140 years after the laying of its cornerstone in 1882, the famed basilica will be finished in time to commemorate the 100th anniversary of its visionary architect, Antoni Gaudí, who died in 1926.
The announcement, confirmed by the Sagrada Família Foundation in March 2024, outlines that the final architectural element—the Tower of Jesus Christ—will be completed next year. Standing at 172.5 meters, the tower will crown the basilica as the tallest church in the world, surpassing the Ulm Minster in Germany.
A Century in the Making
The Sagrada Família, a masterpiece of Catalan Modernism, is one of the longest-running construction projects in history. Gaudí took over the design in 1883 and dedicated the last 15 years of his life exclusively to the basilica. Following his death, the project saw multiple interruptions due to the Spanish Civil War, lack of funding, and evolving technologies.
Despite these hurdles, the church has slowly risen to dominate Barcelona’s skyline, blending Gothic and Art Nouveau styles in a way that only Gaudí could envision. As of 2025, it attracts over 4.5 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited monuments in Spain.
Jesus Christ Tower: The Final Piece of the Puzzle
The centerpiece of the 2026 milestone is the completion of the Tower of Jesus Christ. This monumental tower will not only fulfill Gaudí’s original vision but will also officially make the basilica the tallest church in the world. The tower will feature a 17-meter cross visible from all parts of the city and serve as a beacon of both architectural brilliance and spiritual significance.
According to the Sagrada Família Foundation, “With the completion of the Tower of Jesus Christ, the most essential piece of Gaudí’s original design will finally be realized.”
This final push has been enabled by a surge in construction activity post-pandemic and a stable flow of tourist-funded donations.
Glory Facade and Ongoing Controversy
While 2026 marks the symbolic completion of the basilica, not all elements will be finished. One of the most debated features—the stairway and plaza in front of the Glory Facade—is now projected to continue through 2034.
The stairway is designed to be the basilica’s main entrance, but it would require the demolition of several residential buildings and businesses, prompting backlash from local residents.
“We support the completion of Gaudí’s vision, but not at the cost of our homes,” one community member told Designboom in 2024.
City officials are still in negotiations with affected property owners, and several proposals to modify the original plan are under review.
Selfie Zone and Urban Enhancements
To better manage the increasing flow of tourists, the Barcelona City Council has announced a €2.7 million ($3 million) investment to build a 66,740-square-foot photo plaza at Plaça Gaudí. Scheduled for completion in April 2026, the new area will provide a designated space for visitors to take photos, reducing congestion around the basilica’s entrances and surrounding streets.
The initiative aims to “improve the tourist experience while preserving the sanctity of the church and the quality of life for residents,” a city spokesperson said.
The project is part of a broader campaign to ensure the city’s urban environment can support the expected surge in tourism when the basilica is officially completed.
Technological Innovations and Funding
Modern construction techniques, including the use of 3D modeling and prefabricated stone, have accelerated progress dramatically in the past two decades. The Sagrada Família Foundation has also embraced digital outreach and crowdfunding campaigns to ensure steady funding.
In a 2024 statement, the foundation credited digital ticket sales, donation platforms, and private patronage as key to pushing the project over the finish line.
Commemorating Gaudí’s Legacy
The completion of the Sagrada Família in 2026 will be more than an architectural milestone; it will also be a global cultural event. Major celebrations are planned throughout the year, including exhibitions, liturgical services, and architectural symposiums.
Gaudí, who is already beatified and under consideration for sainthood, may see additional progress toward canonization due to the global focus on his life’s work.
“To see Gaudí’s vision finally fulfilled a century after his death is not just a tribute to one man, but a testament to the enduring power of faith, creativity, and perseverance,” said Barcelona Archbishop Juan José Omella.
The Future Beyond 2026
Although the Sagrada Família will be declared structurally complete in 2026, the finishing touches—particularly on sculptural and decorative elements—are expected to continue until 2034 or even 2035. These include the completion of the stairway on the Glory Facade and minor interior detailing.
Despite its ongoing nature, 2026 represents a symbolic end to a journey that has captivated the world for over a century. From dusty construction lots to high-tech workshops, the basilica’s evolution mirrors the history of modern Spain and global architecture.
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