‘A joyful day’: final piece of Sagrada Familia’s central tower put in place
The final piece of the Sagrada Familia’s central tower in Barcelona has been installed, marking a significant milestone in the building's construction 144 years after it began.
The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona reached a significant milestone with the installment of the final piece of its central tower, a 17-meter-high steel and glass cross. This momentous occasion brings the architectural wonder, which Antoni Gaudí dedicated the latter part of his life to, to its maximum height of 172.5 meters. The event occurred during a careful operation that waited for optimal weather conditions, symbolizing the dedication and effort of many individuals over more than a century of construction.
As the flags of Catalonia and the Vatican were raised, chief architect Jordi Faulí expressed the sentiment of joy shared among those involved in the project, marking this achievement as significant not just architecturally but culturally for the city of Barcelona and beyond. The church, now recognized as the tallest building in Barcelona and the world's tallest church, stands as a testament to Gaudí's unique vision and the perseverance of the teams that followed in his footsteps.
A ceremony to officially celebrate the completion of the tower is planned for June 10, coinciding with the centenary of Gaudí's death. This completion comes 16 years after the church was consecrated by Pope Benedict XVI and represents both a closing chapter in a long history and a new beginning as the final pieces of this grand architectural endeavor are put into place. The completion of the Sagrada Familia is expected to draw visitors and pilgrims from around the world, further underscoring its significance in the world of architecture and religious heritage.