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ArchitectureSpain

Barcelona's Sagrada Familia reaches full height

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Nita Blake-Persen
February 20, 2026

A cross placed on the cathedral's highest tower topped the structure out at more than 170 meters. Construction of the Gothic basilica — Barcelona's most famous landmark — began in 1882, and it's still not finished.

Barcelona's Sagrada Familia has reached its full height after a 17‑meter white cross was installed atop the Jesus Christ tower, bringing the basilica to 172.5 meters. More than 140 years after Gaudí began the project, the landmark is nearing completion, though work on its façades and interiors will continue. The tower's finish marks a major milestone for one of Europe's most visited sites.

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