The Sagrada Família Basilica in Barcelona, Spain, achieved a significant milestone on Friday, as it reached a new height record of 172.5 meters with the installation of a cross on top of its central tower. This landmark now not only retains its title as the tallest church in the world but also becomes the tallest building in the city of Barcelona. The basilica, designed by the architect Antoni Gaudí over 140 years ago, continues to draw millions of visitors each year, solidifying its status as Spain's top tourist attraction.

In late 2025, the Sagrada Família is expected to officially surpass Germany’s Ulm Cathedral to claim the title of the tallest church globally. The completion of this ambitious project has been highly anticipated, as it reflects Gaudí's unique architectural vision combined with modern engineering. The final piece added, a white cross measuring 17 meters in height, was hoisted into place by a large yellow crane during a public operation watched by hundreds of tourists.

The added height is not just a testament to the lengthy construction process of the Sagrada Família, which remains a work in progress, but also signifies the ongoing importance of the site in religious, cultural, and architectural contexts. With approximately 4.8 million paid visitors recorded in 2024, the basilica's completion will further enhance its profile, drawing even more tourists and serving as a symbol of Barcelona's rich history and artistry in architecture.