Barcelona's Unfinished Marvel Hits a Towering Milestone After 141 Years
Barcelona's famous Sagrada Familia Church, an architectural marvel that has been under construction for a staggering 141 years, has finally reached a significant milestone. The church's four towers, named after the evangelists Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, have been fully erected, bringing the completion of this monumental project closer than ever before. Designed by renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, the Sagrada Familia Cathedral was originally intended to have 16 towers dedicated to biblical figures. However, due to various interruptions and setbacks, including Gaudi's death in 1926 and the destruction of his original models, progress on the church was impeded for decades. On November 12th, local Christians will have the opportunity to witness the illuminated towers of the evangelists during the basilica's inaugural mass, which will continue until after Christmas. The symbolism of nature, faith, and art represented in the Sagrada Familia's architecture and sculpture will be celebrated through a special performance by the Barcelona Symphony Orchestra. With only the tower of Jesus remaining unfinished, the Sagrada Familia is poised to become the tallest cathedral in Europe once completed. Standing at an impressive height of 566 feet (172.5 meters), plus a 56-foot (17-meter) cross, it will be a monumental testament to perseverance and architectural brilliance. The completion of the Sagrada Familia's towers marks a significant achievement for Barcelona and the world of architecture. It serves as a testament to the dedication and vision of countless individuals who have contributed to this project over the years. The long-awaited finish line is in sight, and soon the Sagrada Familia will stand as a timeless symbol of faith and beauty for generations to come.