The Sagrada Familia Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece nestled in the heart of Barcelona, stands as a testament to the genius of its creator, the Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Initiated in 1882, this monumental basilica combines Gothic and Art Nouveau forms in a manner unprecedented in architectural history. Its towering spires, intricate facades, and richly detailed interiors have captivated visitors and architects alike for over a century.
For years, the ongoing construction shrouded in scaffolding and surrounded by cranes has partly obscured the beauty of this architectural marvel and the extent of Gaudí's visionary design.
This emblem of Barcelona is now on course to be completed in 2026. If this timeline is adhered to, the renowned edifice will have been under construction for 144 years, coinciding with the centennial of its designer, Antoni Gaudí's death.
The La Sagrada Familia Foundation, which oversees the cathedral's construction and maintenance, anticipates the completion of work in two years, aligning with the 100th anniversary of Gaudí's death.
Esteve Camps, the president of the organization responsible for the construction, has announced the currently planned completion date for the Sagrada Familia Cathedral in Spain.
Sagrada Familia Set for 2026 Completion
In November, Barcelona celebrated the finishing of the church's four towers, each symbolizing one of the evangelists: Matthew, John, Mark, and Luke. Efforts are now focused on completing the Chapel of the Assumption (by 2025) and the Tower of Jesus Christ (planned for 2026).
The tower will stand 172.5 meters tall, making the Sagrada Familia the world's tallest church and Barcelona's highest structure. However, Esteve Camps highlighted that the completion of construction does not signify the end of work inside the cathedral, which will continue until 2034.
Additionally, the construction of a 60-meter-long staircase, destined to become the main entrance to the Sagrada Familia, has been announced. This plan has sparked controversy due to the need for demolition and resettlement of buildings and their inhabitants in the now-populated area surrounding the site. Despite this, Camps insists that Gaudí's original vision "should be implemented to the letter."
