Barcelona’s most famous landmark, the Sagrada Familia, is edging closer to completion, with project leaders expecting it could be finished in about 10 years.
The modernist basilica, designed by Antoni Gaudi, has been under construction since 1882. Gaudi worked on it until his death in 1926, leaving his vision incomplete. Now, almost a century later, architects and planners believe the project is finally entering its last stage.
Project chairman Esteve Camps said delays caused by the COVID pandemic slowed progress, but work is back on track. He explained that under normal conditions, the basilica should be finished within the next decade. While exact timelines remain uncertain, the team is hopeful.
Next year marks 100 years since Gaudi’s passing. To honor this, the project aims to complete the main tower dedicated to Jesus Christ. The tower will rise to 172.5 meters, making it Barcelona’s tallest building.
Chief architect Jordi Fauli confirmed that the tower already stands at 155 meters. The lower half of the massive cross that will crown it is also complete. Once finished, the Sagrada Familia will feature three facades and 18 towers in total.
However, challenges remain. Local protests have erupted over a proposed staircase outside the main gate, which would require demolishing nearby homes. Camps expressed confidence that the issue would be resolved but admitted it could end up in court.
Tourism is another pressing concern. In 2024, the basilica attracted a record 4.9 million visitors. Officials confirmed that even when complete, the maximum capacity will not increase, highlighting Barcelona’s ongoing struggle with overtourism.
Despite obstacles, the Sagrada Familia remains on course to fulfill Gaudi’s vision more than 140 years after construction began. For millions of visitors, the day of its final completion now feels closer than ever.
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