The Basilica of the Sagrada Familia is preparing to top off its central spire, the Tower of Jesus Christ. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, this final flourish will make the basilica the tallest Catholic church in the world.
Barcelona’s skyline is about to get a historic new crown after more than 140 years of construction.
The chief architect Jordi Faulí revealed that the spire itself is finished. The focus now is on assembling the enormous seven-piece cross that will sit at the very top. Once complete, a crane will carefully lift it into place.
“This is the moment when the Sagrada Familia will finally reach its maximum height,” said the basilica’s general director, Xavier Martínez. “We’re used to seeing skyscrapers rise in the United States, but to be building a cathedral like this in the 21st century is extraordinary.”
Sagrada Familia: A dream that survived everything
Work began in 1882, and since then, the project has survived wars, political upheavals, and even a global pandemic. The basilica is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and widely recognised as Gaudí’s masterpiece — an extraordinary mix of faith, symbolism, and daring architecture.
If all goes to plan, the main structure will be finished in 2026, exactly 100 years after Gaudí’s death. Decorative details and sculptures are expected to carry on until around 2034.
Reaching for the sky
The Tower of Jesus Christ was always Gaudí’s centrepiece. When crowned, it will soar to 172.5 metres (564 feet), overtaking the Ivory Coast’s Basilica of Our Lady of Peace (158 metres) and Germany’s Ulmer Münster (161.5 metres).
In short, it won’t just be the tallest Catholic church in the world, but the tallest church, full stop.
What’s next for the Sagrada Familia
Once the tower is crowned, attention will move to the Chapel of the Assumption. This will feature a hyperbolic dome topped with a cross and sculptures of saints, including St. Joseph Oriol, a Barcelona-born priest, and St. Roch, the protector against plagues.
