There’s no better example of that old saying ‘good things come to those who wait’ than Barcelona’s showstopping Sagrada Família.
So far, it’s been 144 years in the making, and while there’s still a little way to go for the cathedral to be complete in its entirety, significant structural milestones have been reached over the last couple of months and some big celebrations to mark those are on the way.
Below is all the latest information about the status of the Sagrada Família, as well as a roundup of what is yet to come.
Is the Sagrada Família finally complete?
Well, sort of. After delays caused over the almost century and a half since construction started by wars, politics, and lack of funding, we reported back in February that the final piece of the tallest tower – the Tower of Jesus Christ, no less – was finally complete.
This meant that the Sagrada Família had reached its full height – a stately 172.5 metres tall – and was a significant moment for the structural work on the building. Below are some images of how it’s looking now.
How is its completion being celebrated?
Marking 100 years since Antoni Gaudí’s passing, 2026 was always set to be a momentous year in Barcelona, with celebrations planned to celebrate the life of this esteemed architect as well as the progress towards completion on his masterpiece.
Now that the structural works are complete, Pope Leo XIV (the 11th pontiff to reign since construction began) led a Solemn Mass and ceremonial blessing on Wednesday June 10 to inaugurate the tower and mark – to the day – the centenary of Gaudí’s death. Faithful were lining the streets 10 hours before he was due to pass, according to the Guardian.
What’s still left to do on the Sagrada Família?
Attention now turns to finishing off the building’s interior – which should be polished off by 2028 – and the Glory Facade, which is the third and final planned by Gaudí and should act as the grand main entrance to the basilica.
However, due to opposition from local business and residents, this is proving tricky. Why? Well, according to CNN, the Construction Board of the Expiatory Temple of the Sagrada Família has proposed a staircase to connect the street with the entrance portico (13 feet above) and allow traffic to pass beneath.
The space this would require could lead to the demolition of residential buildings which sit opposite the cathedral, and understandably, the people living there have raised concerns about the lack of clarity regarding these plans.
The board has said they need approval from city authorities before engaging in discussions with residents, so stay tuned to see how that progresses.
There’s obviously still a lot to be finalised, but keep up to date with all the latest information about the Sagrada Família and other major goings-on in the world on our travel news page.
🌇 Oh, and here are the best things to do in Barcelona right now.
Plus: These are officially the world’s best cities for museums and galleries.
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