La Sagrada Familia becomes world's tallest church after 140 years
Gaudí's basilica reached completion in February 2026 when a 100-tonne cross topped its central spire at 172.5 metres.
La Sagrada Familia in Barcelona stopped being an unfinished landmark in February this year when a 100-tonne cross was placed atop the Tower of Jesus Christ. At 172.5 metres, the basilica is now the world's tallest church.
The work of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí took more than 140 years to reach this official completion point. For decades, visitors returned to the city to see its outline shift, a new tower here, another facade there.
Ornamental work and interior refinements will continue into the 2030s, but the structure itself is done. This year also marks 100 years since Gaudí's death, making Barcelona a natural pilgrimage for anyone who loves architecture or has seen the basilica rise over multiple visits.
- More than 140 years
- Construction duration
- 100 tonnes
- Cross weight
- 172.5 metres
- Final height
- 2026
- Completion year
Why it mattersA building expected never to finish has become real, ending one of history's most ambitious long-term projects and changing what Barcelona's most famous landmark means.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect, but the milestone makes Barcelona a newly complete destination for Australian travellers who previously saw it as perpetually under construction.
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