Sagrada Familia completes the 172.5-meter Tower of Jesus Christ

The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona has reached a height of 172.5 meters following the installation of a 100-ton cross atop the central Tower of Jesus Christ. Construction of the basilica began 144 years ago, having faced numerous delays due to war, political instability, and economic challenges. The project includes 18 towers in total, dedicated to the Apostles, Evangelists, the Virgin Mary, and Jesus Christ. The final structural component was installed in February, and the tower's inauguration marks the centenary of architect Antoni Gaudi's death. Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to perform a celebratory mass and blessing of the new tower on Wednesday, June 10. While some non-structural work remains, the project is officially expected to reach substantial completion by 2026. Architects successfully reconstructed the building based on plans that were largely destroyed during the 1930s.