Barcelona’s Sagrada Família basilica reached its maximum height on , though the ambitious project of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí remains years from completion. The placement of a 17-meter-high cross atop the Tower of Jesus Christ marked a significant milestone in the construction, which began in .
While the basilica is now the world’s tallest church, having surpassed previous height records in , full completion is not anticipated for another decade, according to those involved in the project. The interior of the Tower of Jesus Christ is still under construction, and the surrounding area remains heavily scaffolded, though plans are in place to remove the scaffolding by in time for celebrations marking the centenary of Gaudí’s death.
The achievement is particularly noteworthy given that Gaudí himself did not live to see his vision realized. He died in at the age of 73, after being struck by a tram, with only one spire completed at the time of his death. The project’s longevity has become a cultural phenomenon, with generations remarking on its seemingly perpetual state of construction.
The recent progress has spurred increased international attention, with the Sagrada Família becoming a major tourist destination. This influx of visitors has accelerated construction funding, allowing work to proceed at a faster pace in recent decades. The basilica’s unique aesthetic, blending Catholic symbolism with organic forms, continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
The cross, designed with four arms as per Gaudí’s original plans, is intended to be visible from all directions. There are also plans, pending city government approval, to project a beam of light from each arm, symbolizing the church’s role as a spiritual beacon. Rev. Josep Turull, the Sagrada Familia’s rector, articulated this vision, highlighting the symbolic importance of the cross.
The completion of the tower has also sparked discussion about Gaudí’s legacy and his place in Catalan identity. The basilica’s construction has been a source of both pride and debate within Catalonia, reflecting a complex relationship with the architect and his work. Some view the Sagrada Família as a symbol of Catalan exceptionalism, while others express concerns about the impact of mass tourism and the basilica’s religious symbolism.
The project’s extended timeline has also become a recurring theme in popular culture, with jokes and references to its perpetual incompleteness circulating globally. A British social media user, for example, shared a vintage cartoon depicting a politician questioning Gaudí about the project’s completion date, drawing a parallel to unfulfilled political promises. The cartoon’s resonance highlights the widespread awareness of the Sagrada Família’s protracted construction.
The culmination of the Tower of Jesus has also ignited debate surrounding the flags displayed during the ceremony – specifically, the presence of the Catalan senyera and the Vatican flag, and the absence of the Spanish flag. This sparked online discussion about Gaudí’s political views and his relationship to Catalan nationalism. Some argued that Gaudí would have favored the Catalan flag, while others emphasized his Spanish identity.
Despite the ongoing construction, the topping of the central tower represents a significant step towards realizing Gaudí’s ambitious vision. The project continues to draw attention not only for its architectural innovation but also for its enduring cultural and symbolic significance. The Sagrada Família, a testament to one man’s dedication and a symbol of Catalan identity, continues to evolve, captivating the world with its unique blend of art, faith, and history.
Head architect Jordi Fauli expressed satisfaction with the progress, stating, “Today was a day we had been eagerly awaiting. Everything has gone well, very well.” The inauguration of the Tower of Jesus Christ is scheduled for , coinciding with the centenary of Gaudí’s death. While rumors suggest Pope Leo XIV may attend, the Vatican has yet to confirm any plans for a visit to Spain.
