In 2026, Barcelona will be in the spotlight as the Sagrada Familia prepares to mark the centenary of Antonio Gaudí’s death. By this date, the basilica aims to complete the construction of its tallest tower—the Jesus Tower, which will reach 172 meters. In June, marking one hundred years since the architect’s passing, a special mass will be held in the basilica. Organizers have already contacted the Vatican, requesting Pope Leo XIV to lead the ceremony. A response is expected in the coming weeks.
Festive events will begin as early as this autumn and continue through the end of 2026. The highlight will be a service on June 10—the day of Gaudí’s passing. However, this is not the only event the basilica is preparing for. In the coming months, installation will be completed on the huge cross for the Jesus Tower, which is currently being manufactured in Germany. Once finished, visitors will be able to ascend to the base of the cross, but the exact opening dates have not yet been announced—access will be limited due to the complexity of the structure.
Another important development is the completion of the Assumption Chapel at the intersection of Provença and Sardenya streets. In April, it will become visible to residents, although the scaffolding will remain for now. After work is completed on the tower and chapel, attention will shift to the main entrance on the Glory façade. There are plans to build a monumental staircase here, a move that has sparked debate since it would require demolishing several residential buildings. The city authorities have pledged to discuss this issue with residents and the basilica by May 2027.
Debates over the staircase have been ongoing for several years. Back in 2018, local residents presented an archival document that did not call for the demolition of buildings for a new entrance. The municipality recently announced plans to resume negotiations to seek a compromise. If the decision to build the staircase is approved, the basilica will have to cover all relocation costs for residents. Sagrada Família’s management is confident: the staircase will be built, even if the dispute ends up in court.
Gaudí’s anniversary has been added to Catalonia’s official calendar and recognized as an event of national significance. Celebrations will take place not only at the Sagrada Família, but also in other buildings designed by the architect: on Passeig de Gràcia, at Casa Milà (La Pedrera), and at Casa Batlló. Next year, the basilica will become one of the symbols of the World Capital of Architecture, and in summer — the starting point of a Tour de France stage.
All festive events will be funded exclusively through donations and corporate partnership programs. The basilica’s budget will remain unchanged. Among the new projects is the restoration of Gaudí’s workshop, which was destroyed by fire in 1936. The recreated space will be open to visitors: there, you will be able to see the architect’s bed and his desk with original drawings.
Full completion of Sagrada Família’s construction is expected about ten years after work on the towers is finished, that is, by 2036. Until then, the basilica will continue to impress with new discoveries and architectural innovations.
