The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona completed its main tower, the Tower of Jesus, during a ceremony held on June 10 [1].
This milestone marks the conclusion of the first major phase of a project that has spanned more than 140 years. The completion coincides with the centennial of architect Antoni Gaudi's death, symbolizing a transition from a long-term construction site to a nearly finished monument.
Standing at 172.5 meters [1], the Tower of Jesus makes the Sagrada Familia the tallest church in the world [1]. The final piece of the central tower was installed following a construction period that began in 1882 [2].
"Gaudi's death 100 years ago this June saw the completion of the main tower, the Tower of Jesus, at 172.5 meters," a PR TIMES press release said [1]. The installation of the final component follows 144 years of work since the project's inception [3].
While the central tower is now finished, the entire basilica is not yet complete. Reports on the final timeline vary. Some sources suggest the overall project was scheduled for completion in 2026 [4], while others state the full completion of the site is targeted for approximately 10 years from now, around 2036 [2].
Construction of the site has continued through various architectural eras and technical advancements. The current phase focused on the central spire as the primary focal point of the cathedral's skyline, a goal that has remained elusive for over a century.
Officials said the project continues to move toward its final goals, though the full architectural vision of Gaudi requires further detailed work beyond the main spire [2].
“The Tower of Jesus makes the Sagrada Familia the tallest church in the world.”
The completion of the Tower of Jesus resolves one of the most anticipated architectural milestones in modern history. By reaching the status of the world's tallest church, the Sagrada Familia validates the long-term viability of Gaudi's original vision despite the century-long gap since his death. However, the discrepancy in completion dates—ranging from 2026 to 2036—indicates that while the most visible landmark is finished, the complex structural and artistic details of the remaining sections will continue to challenge engineers for another decade.
