Spain’s Sagrada Familia reaches full height 144 years after first stone laid
South China Morning Post
by Associated PressFebruary 20, 2026
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Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Familia basilica has reached its full height of 172.5 meters (566 feet), marking a historic milestone in its long journey to completion. The addition of the upper arm of a white cross on the Tower of Jesus Christ, placed by a crane, culminated decades of construction and turned the church into the world’s tallest. This achievement comes nearly 144 years after the first stone was laid in 1882, with renowned architect Antoni Gaudi dedicating much of his life to the project until his death in 1926. While the basilica remains unfinished, this latest development brings it closer to its completion and solidifies its status as a global architectural marvel.
The Sagrada Familia’s journey to becoming the tallest church in the world is a testament to Gaudi’s vision and the relentless efforts of his successors. When Gaudi took over in 1883, he transformed the project into a modernist masterpiece, blending Gothic elements with his unique artistic style. Despite his tragic death in 1926 after being hit by a tram, only one of the planned 18 towers was completed during his lifetime. The central Tower of Jesus Christ, which now stands at its full height, is adorned with intricate details and symbolism, reflecting Gaudi’s passion for nature and spirituality.
The completion of the cross’s upper arm on Friday was a momentous occasion, drawing thousands of tourists and locals eager to witness the milestone. Head architect Jordi Fauli expressed satisfaction over the successful installation, calling it a day
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/20/2026