A glittering cross was hoisted into place, changing Barcelona’s skyline at last. Inside, builders and residents brace for final interior work and facade disputes.
The final tower of the Sagrada Família in Barcelona has been completed – a milestone more than 144 years after construction began.
On Wednesday, Pope Leo XIV will preside over a solemn Mass and blessing during the opening, commemorating the 100th anniversary of architect Antoni Gaudí’s death.
The Tower of Jesus Christ has become the highest point of the basilica: 566 feet tall with a cross at the summit, awaited for many years. The other 17 towers are dedicated to the apostles, the four Evangelists, and the Virgin Mary.
Although the overall design of the basilica had remained unfinished for a long time due to wars, politics, and financial difficulties, the final opening has now officially begun.
Context of the Opening and Future Goals
During the ceremonies, it was outlined that after the cross is installed, interior work will remain; the interior is planned to be completed by 2028, while attention will be focused on the Glory Facade – the main entrance to the basilica.
Obviously, times have changed – technology has advanced, as have regulations.
– Mauricio Cortés
The cross was manufactured in Germany and delivered to Spain in 14 pre-assembled sections made of concrete and stainless steel. After assembly, each section was raised to a workshop about 200 feet above the main entrance, where the detailing of the ornamentation and the glass was completed before the installation finished.
According to Cortés, Gaudí aimed to create a cross that shines by day and lights the horizon at night. Although the process was complex, the architect left a foundation for interpretations by future generations.
The funding of the basilica is provided entirely by donations; after opening to visitors in 2010, proceeds from tickets supported the construction. In 2025, the Sagrada Família welcomed nearly 5 million visitors.
The new completion of the tower does not mean a full shutdown of construction work: attention now focuses on the Glory Facade – the third and final decorative façade of Gaudí, which has also become a topic of discussion with local residents due to the proposed stairs at the top, which could require demolishing neighboring houses.
Who can guarantee that in two years my house will not be demolished?
– Alicia Busquets
We are currently at a standstill – there are many rumors, a lot is said, but the reality is: nothing is certain. With the Pope’s visit approaching in a few days, it feels like “human pressure.”
– Salvador Barroso
CNN correspondent Madalena Araújo joined the piece.
This event marks a new phase in completing the Sagrada Família and shapes expectations for future work, particularly regarding the façade and interior, which will continue to reveal the history of the temple and its role in the urban landscape.