The exterior structure of the world’s tallest church has finally been completed nearly a century and a half after construction began. The milestone marks a dramatic chapter in the long history of the Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família in Barcelona, Spain.
The iconic basilica, commonly known as La Sagrada Familia, has now reached its maximum height of 172.5 m (566 feet) after the completion of the Tower of Jesus Christ. The final addition was the upper arm of a massive four-armed cross that crowns the central tower. Installed with the help of a giant crane, the final segment stands nearly 15 feet tall and completes the grouping of the church’s six central towers.
The cross itself is an engineering and artistic achievement. Built in Germany, it incorporates white enameled ceramic tiles, stone interiors, and glass elements produced in Catalonia. It was transported in sections back to Barcelona before being assembled atop the tower. Designed according to Antoni Gaudí’s vision, the cross features a double twist geometric form and includes a spiral staircase inside. Light will stream through its windows, allowing it to shine day and night as Gaudí intended.
Construction of the basilica began in 1882 and has relied entirely on private donations. Over the decades, multiple architects have carried the project forward following Gaudí’s original plans. Gaudí devoted 43 years of his life to the church before his death in 1926, at which point less than a quarter of the structure had been completed. He is buried in the church’s crypt.
The site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and was consecrated as a basilica by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010, a move aimed at encouraging continued support for its completion. While the exterior is now technically finished, interior decorative work remains ongoing. Planned additions include sculptures and the Agnus Dei, or Lamb of God, designed by Italian artist Andrea Mastrovito.
The completion of the central tower coincides with the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death. Church officials plan commemorative events throughout the year, with full completion targeted for 2034.
