Sagrada Familia: Jesus Christ Statue Arm Raised in Barcelona

A crane meticulously placed the final, four-ton upper arm of the cross atop the Tower of Jesus Christ at the Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona, Spain, on Sunday, February 22, 2026, completing the structure’s central tower and marking a pivotal moment in the basilica’s 144-year construction history.

The placement of the cross culminates a project that has spanned generations and overcome numerous obstacles, including the Spanish Civil War and, more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic. The tower now stands at a height of 172.5 meters (566 feet), making the Sagrada Familia the tallest church in Barcelona, and, as of today, the tallest religious structure in the world, surpassing the Ulmer Minster in Germany.

The completion of the central tower represents a significant milestone in the overall construction of the basilica, designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Operate began in 1882 and Gaudí dedicated the last years of his life to the project before his death in 1926. Construction has continued, relying on interpretations of Gaudí’s designs and, more recently, computer-aided design.

The final phase of the tower’s construction involved lifting the cross’s arm into place, a complex operation that required precise coordination and favorable weather conditions. The cross itself is illuminated, and is visible from across the city. Barcelona officials have stated that the completion of the tower is expected to draw increased tourism to the region.

While the central tower is now complete, work continues on other elements of the Sagrada Familia, including the facades and interior details. Project leaders have indicated that the basilica is now on track for completion within the coming months, though a precise date has not been announced. The basilica’s foundation board has not yet commented on long-term maintenance plans for the newly completed tower.