The Sagrada Família in Barcelona has officially earned the title of the world’s tallest church. This milestone was achieved after the initial segment of a cross was successfully installed atop its main tower. Standing at an impressive 162.91 meters, the basilica has surpassed the previous record holder, Ulm Minster in Germany, which has held the title since 1890.
The iconic basilica, envisioned by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, has been under construction for over a century. Gaudí took over the project in 1883, transforming the initial plans into a much grander and more ambitious design. Sadly, just one of the 18 planned towers was completed before his untimely death in 1926. Since then, the Sagrada Família foundation has continued the ambitious project, with funding primarily coming from tourists, visitors, and private donations.
The Tower of Jesus Christ, the central and tallest tower, is set to reach its final height of 172 meters in the coming months with the addition of the remaining cross sections. The foundation plans a series of commemorative events in 2026 to celebrate the centenary of Gaudí’s passing, recognizing his profound legacy as the architect buried within the church’s crypt. While the main structure is nearing completion, intricate decorative work, sculptures, and the grand staircase leading to the main entrance will continue to be developed over the next decade.
Throughout its long construction history, the Sagrada Família has faced significant challenges. The Spanish Civil War saw the destruction of Gaudí’s original plans and models in a fire, while the recent Covid-19 pandemic caused construction halts due to a decrease in tourism and funding. Despite these setbacks, the dedication to completing Gaudí’s vision remains strong.