The Sagrada Família has announced new details regarding the next stages of construction for the iconic Basilica. The focus will be on completing the Tower of Jesus Christ and the Chapel of the Assumption, as revealed by General Director Mr. Xavier Martínez and Head Architect Mr. Jordi Faulí during a recent press conference in Barcelona.
Progress on the Tower of Jesus Christ
Head architect Jordi Faulí provided a detailed update on the work planned for the upcoming year. A major milestone is the completion of the Tower of Jesus Christ, which is expected to reach its final height in 2025. According to Faulí, the twelfth and final panel will be installed by the end of 2024, after which the final stage of construction will begin—the placement of the tower’s cross pinnacle.
This towering cross, a central element of the Basilica’s design, will stand 17 meters tall and span 13.5 meters in width. The cross will be covered in a unique combination of glass and white enamelled tiles, utilizing advanced construction techniques. The ceramics, specifically created for this project, will include curved and pyramid-shaped pieces, while the windows will feature three layers of curved, laminated glass with intricate ground and polished pyramids and textured surfaces.
Chapel of the Assumption to be Completed in 2025
Another key focus will be the final phase of construction on the Chapel of the Assumption. Faulí highlighted that the works have already progressed on the lower and ground floors of the adjacent cloisters. Currently, visitors passing by Carrer de Provença can observe the columns of the cloister, as well as the first tensioned-stone ribs and ceramic vaults that will soon enclose this section.
Once this portion of the cloister is enclosed, the crane will be repositioned, paving the way for the completion of the Chapel of the Assumption, anticipated in 2025. This new phase will add a further dimension to the Basilica’s overall structure and enrich the visitor experience.
Advancements in the Basilica’s Roofs
Jordi Faulí also shared updates on the ongoing progress of the Basilica’s side naves. As of 2024, four out of five sections of the roofs on the Passion and Nativity façades have been completed. These roofs, which were initially started in 2019, stand 30 meters above ground and serve multiple functions. Not only do they collect and channel rainwater, but they also insulate the Basilica through a ventilated chamber, reminiscent of an attic, while allowing natural light to filter through pyramid-shaped lanterns.
The roofs rest on Catalan vaults supported by ceramic arches, which efficiently distribute the load to the columns in the nave. The exterior of these roofs and lanterns is constructed from stone, and the areas connecting to the pediments of the windows will be decorated with trencadís mosaic, similar to the pinnacle of the lantern.
Visit the Sagrada Familia
The completion of these monumental construction projects will not only fulfill Antoni Gaudí’s grand vision for the Sagrada Família but also offer visitors a unique experience. Those visiting Barcelona in the coming years will witness the final stages of this architectural marvel. For those interested in seeing the progress firsthand, tickets for guided tours and access to the Basilica are available online. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the latest developments and be part of history as the Sagrada Família approaches its completion in 2026.
