Sagrada Familia: Barcelona Basilica Now World’s Tallest Church

Barcelona’s Sagrada Família basilica reached its maximum height on Friday as constructors crowned the tallest tower with a 17-metre-high white cross, surpassing Ulm Minster in Germany as the world’s tallest church.

The final piece of the Jesus Christ tower, which reaches a total height of 172.5 metres (566 feet), was installed amid a flurry of activity visible to onlookers, according to head architect Jordi Fauli. “Today was a day we had been eagerly awaiting. Everything has gone well, very well,” Fauli told reporters.

The milestone marks more than 140 years since Antoni Gaudí, the famed Catalan architect, first designed the basilica, which has become a globally recognised landmark and a symbol of Barcelona. The Jesus Christ tower is scheduled for a blessing on June 10, coinciding with the centenary of Gaudí’s death, following the removal of scaffolding.

While the basilica has reached its planned height, completion of the entire Sagrada Família remains approximately a decade away, according to current projections. Construction began in 1882 and has been marked by numerous delays.

The Covid-19 pandemic significantly impacted progress, disrupting work and reducing crucial income generated from the 4.8 million tickets sold in 2024, making the Sagrada Família Spain’s most-visited church that charges an entrance fee.

Further complications stem from a dispute concerning the construction of a flight of steps and a square intended to serve as the main entrance to the facade of Glory. The plans require the demolition of existing homes, prompting opposition from residents in a city grappling with a housing crisis. Barcelona town hall is scheduled to mediate the conflict.

Speculation surrounds a potential visit from Pope Leo XIV to inaugurate the tower, but the Vatican has yet to confirm any plans for a trip to Spain.