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After sitting unfinished for over 100 years, Barcelona's Sagrada Familia basilica finally has a targeted completion date. Designed by architect Antoni Gaudi, the soaring spires of the landmark church, alongside its numerous cranes, have created an identifiable peak in the Barcelona skyline. With the cranes set to come down and additional spires set to climb skyward, chief architect Jordi Fauli predicts a 2026 completion.
Construction on this ambitious project began in 1882. When Gaudi was fatally struck by a tram in 1926, the building was about 20 percent complete. Various stages of work have been finished since then, including the closing of a gap in the building's roof 15 years ago.
Currently 70 percent complete, six new towers will be added to the church. At 172.5 metres tall, the Tower of Jesus Christ will become the central spire, with other spires of varying heights representing the hierarchy of different religious figures. The Tower of Jesus Christ will be strategically placed atop a massive chamber which has just completed work. The chamber serves multiple purposes. Not only will it help hold the weight of the tall tower above, it also allows light to pour into the airy space through large stained glass windows. Gaudi designed the chamber to resemble a forest, with columns envisioned as trees and branches. When completed, the stone basilica will claim the title as the tallest place of worship in the world and boast an impressive 18 towers.
The giant undertaking requires a similarly giant budget. The annual construction cost of €25 million is somewhat offset by incoming tourists, who pay between €15-20 to enter the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The church has often divided Barcelona. Its exaggerated Art Nouveau styling has drawn praise and condemnation, with some unfavourable comparisons to Disney World's Cinderella Castle. Though the anticipated completion of the church has excited many in the architectural community, many others believe that the basilica should remain incomplete and that any new appendages would disrupt Gaudi's original vision. Slowly but surely, Barcelona and the world are getting a glimpse of what the church will ultimately look like, with the final unveiling set to take place 100 years after Gaudi's sudden death.
For more information about the project, visit the Database file linked below. Want to get involved in the discussion? Check out the associated Forum thread or leave a comment at the bottom of this page.
