Barcelona has reached a historic architectural milestone with the completion of the exterior of the central Tower of Jesus Christ at the Sagrada Família. On 20 February 2026, the upper arm of the monumental cross was installed, finalising the temple's tallest and most emblematic tower. 

This achievement coincides with the centenary of the death of Antoni Gaudí, offering a symbolic tribute to the visionary architect whose legacy continues to shape Barcelona's skyline and global cultural identity. 

The Highest Point of the Temple 

The Tower of Jesus Christ stands at 172.5 metres and forms the central core of the basilica's six central towers. It is surrounded by the four towers of the Evangelists, each connected by bridges, and the Tower of the Virgin Mary, which links internally to the central tower. The structure features twelve façades and is composed of twelve levels of stone panels, constructed using a post-tensioned stone system that combines stone and steel. 

The final panel level was completed in December 2024, reaching a height of 142.5 metres. The terminal base of the tower, measuring 29 metres in height, bears the inscription of praise to Jesus Christ — “Tu solus Sanctus, tu solus Dominus, tu solus Altissimus” — crafted in white glazed ceramic and brick, surrounded by sculpted palms. Construction of this section began in May 2025. 

A Cross that Touches the Sky 

Crowning the tower is a four-armed tridimensional cross, clad in white glazed ceramic and glass. Measuring 17 metres in height and 13.5 metres in width, it now becomes the highest architectural element of the basilica. 

The cross was manufactured in Germany during 2025 and assembled largely on site in Barcelona. It was transported in modules and pre-assembled on a working platform 54 metres above the central nave before being hoisted into position in seven main pieces: the lower arm, the central core, four lateral arms, and finally the upper arm, installed today. 

Inside the upper arm will be placed the sculpture of the Agnus Dei, created by Italian artist Andrea Mastrovito, fulfilling Gaudí's original vision of positioning the Divine Lamb at the summit of the cross. 

A Landmark Year for Barcelona and Catalonia 

The completion of the cross represents far more than the end of a construction phase. As stated by the basilica's chief architect, Jordi Faulí, it is “the result of years of work and study of the legacy that Antoni Gaudí left us, and a firm commitment to continue working towards the completion of the Sagrada Família.” 

Throughout 2026, commemorative events will mark the centenary of Gaudí's death, celebrating his enduring influence on architecture, art and spirituality. The culmination of the Tower of Jesus Christ further reinforces Barcelona's position as one of Europe's most extraordinary cultural capitals and highlights Catalonia's unique architectural heritage. 

Interior works on the tower will continue during 2027 and 2028. 

ABOUT CATALONIA 

Catalonia is a leading all-year-round Mediterranean destination with a millenary history, its own culture and language, plus a wealthy historical and natural heritage. With a population of over 7.5 million, the region covers 32,107 km2 and enjoys a temperate and mild Mediterranean climate, characterised by dry, warm summers and moderately cool winters. Catalonia is home to many significant cities, like its capital, Barcelona, and Girona, Tarragona and Lleida and smaller towns filled with remarkable heritage and majestic monuments. From the towering heights of the Catalan Pyrenees to the spectacular coastline of the Costa Brava, Costa Barcelona, Costa Daurada and Terres de l'Ebre, the region offers extensive opportunities for travellers of all kinds: from food and wine lovers, culture seekers, and families, to sports enthusiasts and wildlife wanderers. 

CONTACT INFORMATION  
For more information and enquiries, please contact info.act.uk@gencat.cat 
For more information about Catalonia, please visit www.catalunya.com