Sagrada Familia's Tower of Jesus Christ Nears Completion with Final Cross Arm Installed

Progress of the Sagrada Familia's Tower of Jesus Christ

The Sagrada Familia, an iconic basilica in Barcelona designed by architect Antoni Gaudí, is edging closer to completion as the final horizontal arm of the cross atop the Tower of Jesus Christ has been successfully installed. This remarkable achievement reflects the ongoing dedication and craftsmanship involved in finishing Gaudí's vision, with the construction anticipated to be completed by June 2026.

On January 14, 2026, the fourth horizontal arm was added to the tower, following the previous installations of the other three arms, which have been placed in the order detailed in the Temple Albums. Each arm of the cross is crafted with Gaudí's innovative double-twist geometry, showcasing a square shape at the outer end that transitions to an octagonal shape at the inner core. This design not only contributes to the structural integrity of the tower but also enhances its visual appeal. With each arm weighing around 12.8 tons and measuring 4.40 meters by 4.50 meters, their placement has been a delicate yet significant operation.

Once fully assembled, the completed cross will stand at an impressive 17 meters tall, approximately the height of a five-story building, and span 13.5 meters wide. Gaudí's intention was for the cross to be illuminated beautifully at night while also shining vibrantly during the day. To achieve this, the cross will be adorned with white glazed ceramic and glass, materials selected for their radiant qualities and durability against the elements.

In alignment with the symbolic significance of the cross, spotlights are being installed on the surrounding towers of the Evangelists and the Apostles, promising to highlight the pinnacle of the tower and create a visually stunning spectacle at night. An integral part of this cross will be the specially-designed sculpture of Agnus Dei, created by Italian artist Andrea Mastrovito. This piece will be placed within the cross, further adhering to Gaudí's original concepts.

The completion of the Tower of Jesus Christ coincides with the centenary of Antoni Gaudí’s death, marking it as a pivotal milestone not just for the architectural masterpiece but also for honoring the legacy of its creator. This project stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Gaudí's work and the collaborative efforts continuing to breathe life into his dream.

As the Sagrada Familia approaches its long-awaited completion, it remains a beacon of creativity and spirituality, attracting millions of visitors and admirers from around the globe. With the installation of the cross's final arm, the journey toward its grand unveiling takes one significant step closer, promising a magnificent tribute to both the architecture itself and the vision of Antoni Gaudí.

For those wishing to follow the progression of this monumental site, updates and detailed accounts can be found at sagradafamilia2026.org.