Sagrada Família in Spain Finally Announces Completion Date

Over 140 years after construction began, Barcelona's Sagrada Família, one of the globe’s most visited landmarks and intricate architectural feats, has set a new completion date: 2026.

This spring, the organization overseeing the lengthy endeavor to complete the masterpiece by renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí revealed that the final phase of this seemingly endless project is slated for completion in two years, coinciding with the centenary of Gaudí's passing in 1926 after a tragic accident in Barcelona.

“Assuming no delays, the Jesus Christ tower will be finished in 2026,” the cathedral announced on X, referring to the roughly 566-foot-tall central tower dedicated to Jesus. When completed, this tower will boast a 56-foot, four-armed cross and will become the tallest church in the world, surpassing Ulm Minster in Ulm, Germany.

A demanding construction journey

Construction of the Sagrada Família commenced in 1882, heavily influenced by Gaudí’s vision of a Roman Catholic cathedral featuring 18 towering spires, each representing a distinct biblical figure.

However, the project has encountered numerous obstacles from the outset, including the Spanish Civil War in the 1930s and ongoing funding shortages. Additionally, it was revealed in 2016 that a building permit had never been issued, which a city official termed a “historical anomaly.” This was rectified in 2019 after 137 years of unauthorized construction.

Work was again halted for two years during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless, the resurgence of tourism post-pandemic has generated the funds needed to potentially bring the project to completion. According to the basilica’s 2023 Annual Report, 4.7 million visitors came in 2023, with ticket prices ranging from approximately $28 to $43 each. This revenue totaled around $135 million, half of which is allocated for the completion of the work, as reported by The Guardian.

An influx of visitors is anticipated

Despite the completion still being some time away, Barcelona's tourism sector is already preparing for an increase in visitors. Certain hotels, such as the Kimpton Vividora Barcelona, are now offering Sagrada Família packages that include VIP tickets, tours, and various perks to commemorate this significant event.

Additionally, some tour operators have already noted a substantial rise in visitors to the landmark since tourism has bounced back following the pandemic. Madison Pietrowski, U.S. brand director at GetYourGuide, shared with Dinogo via email that the company has seen a marked increase in traveler interest since the latest completion date was announced.

“Tours of the Sagrada Família rank among the top five most sought-after international guided tours for U.S. travelers on our platform,” Pietrowski stated.

A representative from GetYourGuide informed Dinogo that the operator has yet to determine whether it will offer additional special tours surrounding the cathedral's 2026 completion, akin to the popular after-hours tours it provided in 2023. The company currently has several ticketing and tour options for the Sagrada Família, with prices ranging from approximately $35 to $150 per ticket.

However, Pietrowski suggested that travelers looking to enjoy the Sagrada Família without overwhelming crowds should aim to visit during the offseason rather than the busy summer months.

“During the winter solstice, you can truly appreciate Gaudí’s envisioned symphony of colors, especially when the sun sets and illuminates the stained-glass windows, creating a stunning kaleidoscope within the Basilica,” she noted. “It’s a sight to witness.”

Regardless of when they visit, potential guests should ensure they purchase Sagrada Família tickets well in advance, either through the cathedral directly or via other operators. Additionally, the cathedral’s social media often highlights special events, like worship services, that are open to the public. On X, the cathedral shares informative and digestible historical and current updates in English, Spanish, and Catalan, making it a great resource for tracking the exact completion date as it approaches.