Barcelona's Sagrada Família Begins Final Stage of Construction

In 1882, construction of the Sagrada Família began, with the renowned Antoni Gaudí stepping in as head architect the following year. Many obstacles plagued the creation of the basilica: Gaudí passed away in 1926, and revolutionaries set the crypt ablaze during the Spanish Civil War. Now, 133 years later, the beautiful church remains unfinished.

The structure, currently 70 percent complete, is finally entering its last stage of construction. Chief architect Jordi Fauli presented the project on October 21, saying the majority of the building would be finished in 2026 to coincide with the 100-year anniversary of Gaudí's death. Smaller details and decorations will take more time and will likely be finalized by 2030 or 2032.

Six new towers will be added to the church, giving the final structure eighteen towers, all dedicated to religious figures like Virgin Mary and the four evangelists (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John).

The Tower of Jesus Christ, the tallest spire, will be over 564 feet tall and adorned with a large cross at the top. It will be situated on a chamber that was just recently completed; the chamber, which is 196 feet above the church floor, allows visitors a better look at the stained glass ceilings. The tower will filter more light into the church, making the sight even more dazzling.

"The central tower of 172.5 meters (566 feet) will make it the tallest cathedral in Europe, because the tallest tower in Europe is Ulm, at 162 meters (531.5 feet)," Fauli said.

With an annual construction budget of €25 million (almost $28 million), construction is slow but steady. The following video, released by The Sagrada Familia Foundation, shows what stages are left to complete and what the project will look like when it's finished. 

[h/t: Dezeen]