The Expiatory Temple of the Sagrada Família, the most emblematic work of architect Antoni Gaudí and an icon of Barcelona, has taken a key step toward its completion with the installation of the fourth arm of the cross that will crown the tower of Jesus Christ, the highest point of the basilica and the architectural complex. More than 140 years after the laying of the first stone, the monument continues to be built and is currently going through its decisive stage.
Inside the cross will be located the sculpture of the Agnus Dei by the Italian artist Andrea Mastrovito, in accordance with the original project. The structure also incorporates contemporary technical innovations, such as automated vents in each arm, which allow for intelligent temperature regulation and adaptation to environmental conditions.
The works on the tower of Jesus Christ could be completed by the end of this year. The final pieces were manufactured in Germany and transported to Barcelona, where advanced technologies were used to faithfully respect the original design conceived by Gaudí. As detailed by the basilica, the process included the progressive installation of the central core and the horizontal arms corresponding to the facades of the Nativity and the Passion, until completing the fourth arm now.
In addition, the installation of lighting systems in the towers of the Evangelists and the Apostles is planned. Although it was initially projected to conclude the works in 2026, coinciding with the centenary of Gaudí's death, the official calendar now foresees that the integral completion of the temple will be reached in 2036. The placement of the last arm of the cross was documented on the project's official networks and was carried out after a complex joint effort by international teams.
The central core will allow internal access via a staircase and rests on a base decorated with inscriptions in Latin, in tune with other parts of the temple. One of the most anticipated elements is the finish in white enamelled ceramic and glass, designed to reflect sunlight during the day and shine at night, just as Gaudí imagined it.
All pieces follow the characteristic double-curve geometry that Gaudí applied to columns and crosses, with square outer ends and octagonal inner connections. The assembly tasks were carried out at a height of 54 meters. Each piece, weighing approximately 12.8 tons and with dimensions close to 4.5 meters per side, required high-precision maneuvers for its assembly, glass placement, and internal adjustments.
With the cross now complete, the tower of Jesus Christ approaches its final configuration. Once finished, the structure will reach a height of 17 meters and a width of 13.5 meters.
