The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona became the tallest church in the world

The basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona reached a new architectural milestone: It officially became the tallest church in the worldafter completing this Thursday a new phase of the construction of its central tower.

As reported by the temple in a statement, the masterpiece of architect Antoni Gaudí now rises 162.91 meters above the city, barely exceeding the height of the Ulmer Münsterthe Gothic Lutheran church in Ulm, Germany, which until now held the record at 161.53 meters.

The Sagrada Familia rises 162.91 meters. Photo: AP/Emilio Morenatti

The change in leadership is symbolic but significant: for the first time, Barcelona’s most emblematic monument prevails in the world ranking.

The Ulmer Münster, built between 1543 and 1890, had held the title for more than a century. Although the Sagrada Familia avoids speaking in terms of competition, the figures confirm the new record. «The numbers speak for themselves,» said the temple administration, which highlighted the progress of the project in recent years.

The rise of the Holy Family is not over. The «Tower of Jesus Christ»which constitutes the central core of the complex, It will reach 172 meters when it is completedwhich will further cement its dominance as the tallest religious structure on the planet.

This Thursday, a huge crane placed the first piece of the upper part of the towerin an operation closely followed by visitors and residents of the city.

The history of the basilica dates back to 1882, when the first stone of the project was laid. Gaudí, deeply devout and visionary, knew that he would not see his work finished: when he died, only one of the multiple towers was complete. More than a century later, his creation continues to grow and transform, becoming a symbol of the spirit of Barcelona.

The progress of work has accelerated in recent decades, driven by international tourism. Every year, millions of people travel to the city, attracted by Gaudí’s unique aesthetic, which combines organic forms, Catholic symbolism and architecture inspired by nature. In 2024, 4.9 million visitors paid admission, and those funds are the main source of construction financing.

Although the basilica is now fully functional and one of the most recognizable postcards in Spain, the work on the facades, towers and interior decoration will continue for several more years. The temple authorities estimate that the work could be completed by 2034coinciding with a new cycle of celebrations around Gaudí’s legacy.

next yearIn addition, it will mark the centenary of the architect’s death, and the city is preparing a series of tributes and cultural activities in his honor. From Barcelona to Reus, his hometown, exhibitions, special visits and commemorative events are scheduled to seek to keep alive the spirit of a creator who dreamed of a church that looked to the sky… and finally achieved it.

With information from AP