The Final Piece of Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia Central Tower Installed in Barcelona | ArchDaily
Summary
The final piece of the Sagrada Familia's central tower has been installed, marking a significant milestone in the completion of Antoni Gaudí's iconic church in Barcelona.
Why It Matters
This event is crucial as it signifies the nearing completion of one of the most famous architectural projects in history, which has been ongoing for over a century. The Sagrada Familia not only represents Gaudí's innovative architectural style but also serves as a major cultural and tourist attraction, impacting Barcelona's economy and global architectural heritage.
Key Takeaways
- The Sagrada Familia's central tower now reaches a height of 172.5 meters.
- Completion of the tower marks a significant milestone in a project that began in 1883.
- The church is expected to be fully completed by 2026, coinciding with Gaudí's centenary.
- Tourism significantly funds the ongoing construction, generating substantial revenue.
- Future construction plans include the Glory Façade, projected to take an additional decade.
Save this picture!Aerial drone view of Barcelona, Spain. Image © FrimuFilms via ShutterstockWritten by Antonia PiñeiroPublished on February 24, 2026 Share ShareFacebookTwitterMailPinterestWhatsappOrhttps://www.archdaily.com/1038993/the-final-piece-of-gaudis-sagrada-familia-central-tower-installed-in-barcelona Clipboard "COPY" CopyThe final piece of the central tower of Barcelona's Sagrada Familia has been laid in place, bringing the church to its maximum height of 172.5 m. La Sagrada Familia, one of architectural history's most notorious unfinished buildings, became Antoni Gaudí's defining project in 1883, when he transformed a neo-Gothic design into one of the best-known structures of Catalan Modernisme. One hundred and forty-four years after construction began, the upper section of the 17-meter-high, four-sided steel and glass cross was winched into position at 11 a.m. on Friday, February 20, completing the tower dedicated to Jesus Christ. This milestone confirms the project's final stage of construction, which, back in March 2024, was announced as one of the most anticipated completions of 2026, commemorating the centenary of Antoni Gaudí's death.+ 7 Save this picture!The Passion Facade, aerial view. Image © Expiatory Temple of the Sagrada FamíliaLa Sagrada Familia is recognized as a testament to Gaudí's approach to architecture, combining Gothic traditions with radically innovative forms to redefine the structure of a cathedral. Gaudí preserved the Latin cross plan but...
