The Sagrada Família: an unfinished masterpiece
The Sagrada Família is a Roman Catholic basilica that was designed by Antoni Gaudí in 1882. The construction was interrupted during the Spanish Civil War and World War II. However, work continues to this day - completion is planned for 2026.
The basilica has three impressive facades: the completed Nativity facade, the unfinished Passion facade, and the Glory facade that is under construction. Upon its completion, the basilica will be adorned with 18 towers: 12 representing the 12 Apostles, 4 towers for the Evangelists, one for the Virgin Mary, and the tallest for Jesus Christ. At that point, the Sagrada Família will be the tallest church in the world. Although it is not a bishop's seat and therefore not a cathedral, it was consecrated as a Basilica minor in 2010. The construction work is expected to be completed by 2026, but the work on the sculptures, decor, and stairs will likely last until 2034. Annually, about 22 million euros from donations, foundations, and entrance fees are available for construction. By completion, an estimated total of around 400 million euros will still be needed.