Key facts
- Pope Leo XIV will visit Barcelona to inaugurate the Sagrada Familia's Tower of Jesus Christ.
- The inauguration will make the Sagrada Familia the world's tallest church at 172.5 meters.
- The visit marks the centenary of architect Antoni Gaudí's death.
- Gaudí's works generate approximately 240 million euros annually in revenue for Barcelona.
- Construction of the Sagrada Familia, started in 1882, is expected to be completed around 2035.
Pope Leo XIV is set to visit Barcelona to inaugurate the Tower of Jesus Christ at the Sagrada Familia basilica, a structure that will make it the world's tallest church. The visit coincides with the 100th anniversary of the death of the basilica's architect, Antoni Gaudí, who died in a tram accident in 1926. Gaudí's distinctive architectural style, once mocked, is now a major draw for millions of tourists to Barcelona each year, with seven of his works designated as UNESCO heritage sites. His buildings generate approximately 240 million euros ($276 million) annually through ticketing. The Vatican's recent approval of a step towards Gaudí's sainthood further underscores a shift in perception towards the architect, with scholars noting a growing focus on his spiritual life and beliefs. The construction of the Sagrada Familia, which began in 1882, faced setbacks including a fire in Gaudí's workshop in 1936. However, thanks to the preservation of his sketches and models, the basilica is now slated for completion around 2035. Last year, the basilica set a record with 4.9 million visitors, whose entry fees contribute to its ongoing construction.