Sagrada Familia: A Monumental Conflict Amidst Completion

The Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona has reached a significant milestone, becoming the tallest church in the world at 172.5 meters. This height will be achieved with the installation of the cross atop the central Jesus Christ tower, which is expected to be completed soon. The completion of this tower is a crucial step, as it will bring the project to approximately 80% completion, according to lead architect Jordi Fauli. The tower's inauguration is scheduled for June 10, coinciding with the centenary of Antoni Gaudí's death, the architect who began this ambitious project in 1883.

The Straits TimesSagrada Familia has become the tallest church in the world, but it is causing division in the neighborhoodEl PaisTaipei Times

Despite the progress, the construction of the Sagrada Familia is marred by significant conflict with local residents. The Construction Board plans to build a large staircase and plaza at the basilica's entrance, which would necessitate the demolition of up to two blocks of homes. Residents, led by Salvador Barroso, president of the tenants' association, have expressed their opposition, arguing that their homes were legally purchased and should not be affected by the expansion. Barroso stated, “The Sagrada Familia owns a plot of land; it does not own the rest. So why should it reach my home?”

The Straits TimesSagrada Familia has become the tallest church in the world, but it is causing division in the neighborhoodTaipei TimesEl Pais

The Sagrada Familia has historically relied on tourism for funding, generating approximately €134 million ($160 million) in 2024 from 4.8 million visitors. However, the COVID-19 pandemic severely impacted this revenue stream, delaying construction timelines. With tourism now rebounding, the Construction Board has yet to set a new completion date for the remaining work, including the controversial Glory Facade.

Sagrada Familia has become the tallest church in the world, but it is causing division in the neighborhood

Critics of the construction plan argue that the proposed staircase does not align with Gaudí's original vision for the basilica. They contend that much of Gaudí's work was lost during the Spanish Civil War, and the current plans may deviate from his intended design. Fauli maintains that the project is being executed in accordance with Gaudí's principles, asserting, “We are, in all parts of the project, faithfully following what Gaudí wanted.”

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Barcelona's town hall has intervened, stating that any agreement regarding the construction must consider the residents' needs, especially in a city facing a housing crisis. Mayor Jaume Collboni emphasized that if residents must be relocated, the Construction Board should bear the associated costs.

El Pais

While the Construction Board aims to resolve the ongoing disputes, the future of the Sagrada Familia remains uncertain. The completion of the basilica, which has been under construction for over 140 years, is closer than ever, yet the resolution of the conflict with local residents is critical to moving forward. The Vatican has not confirmed whether Pope Leo XIV will attend the inauguration, adding another layer of complexity to the project's future.

The Straits Times

• “Gaudi didn't want to exceed that height because Montjuic Hill is God's work,” — Mauricio Cortes, Architect

Sagrada Familia has become the tallest church in the world, but it is causing division in the neighborhood

• “What this is really about is business,” — Salvador Barroso, President of the Tenants' Association

The Straits Times

• “we are, in all parts of the project, faithfully following what Gaudi wanted” — Jordi Fauli, Lead Architect

The Straits Times