Gaudí Centenary: Sagrada Família Unveils Extensive Program Through 2026
In Barcelona, Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece is about to celebrate a unique anniversary: its genius architect died nearly 100 years ago... and the city has decided to mark the occasion in a big way.
A basilica still under construction... and more visited than ever.
4.7 million visitors in 2019, over 3.2 million in 2022: despite the scaffolding, the Sagrada Família remains the most popular paid monument in Spain. Each ticket, each audio guide finances the colossal construction project launched in 1882. Official goal: to complete the work by 2026, just in time for the centenary of Antoni Gaudí's death. An ambitious bet, but the cross for the future tower of Jesus Christ is already being prepared at 54 meters above the ground!
2026, Gaudí Year: Why It's Historic
The Catalan government has included the commemoration in the official calendar of "Celebracions d’interès públic". Madrid has even classified it as "AEIP" (Exceptional Public Interest Event) – a rare distinction that paves the way for private partnerships and tax benefits. In practical terms: concerts, conferences, exhibitions, light mapping on facades... and a highly anticipated inauguration: that of the Jesus Christ tower, 172.5 meters, set to become the tallest point in Barcelona.
Mercè Open House: 20,000 Lucky Attendees Expected
As every year, the basilica participates in the Mercè festival (September 19-24).
- Free entry – via a lottery – for local residents.
- Exclusive preview of the bas-relief of the "Wedding at Cana," which will be placed in the Chapel of the Assumption.
- A scenographic route to understand the progress of the construction site.
Time slots are taken within a few hours: remember to register as soon as registration opens.
Illuminations, sacred music, and manifesto: the turnkey program
• October 14, 2025: Opening Mass for the academic year of Ateneu Universitari Sant Pacià, followed by an inaugural lecture by Dr. Jordi Faulí.
• November 30, 2025: The Barnabas Tower, the only spire completed during Gaudí's lifetime, lights up for its 100th anniversary.
• March 2026: An exceptional concert by the Orfeó Català under the vaults. Guaranteed to give you goosebumps.
• June 10, 2026: Commemorative Mass for the death of Gaudí, streamed online.
• End of 2026: Sound and light show on the Nativity façade, a nod to the monument's future legacy.
The Tower of Jesus Christ: 172.5 meters of technical prowess
The central spire will peak at 172.5 meters, just below the hill of Montjuïc (out of respect for God's work, Gaudí would say). The arms of the cross – stone and glass structures – are dry-assembled in a workshop perched at 54 meters. Each element incorporates high-performance stained glass that filters the Mediterranean light and reduces glare inside.
A business model based on giving – and on passion.
Not a penny of public money for construction: since 1882, admissions, patronage, and micro-donations have ensured the cash flow. In 2023, the Temple generated nearly €100 million in revenue, with 85% reinvested directly into masonry, stained glass workshops, or heritage research.
Barcelona bets big on the "Gaudí boom"
According to the Tourist Office, the direct economic impact could exceed 1.2 billion euros between 2025 and 2027 (accommodation, catering, transport, merchandising). Hoteliers are already announcing booking rates 15% higher than the same dates in 2024. It goes without saying that you will need to book early – or aim for the low season.
Our practical tips for living through the centenary stress-free
- Book your tickets online on the official website; no ticket scalping is allowed in front of the basilica.
- Opt for time slots between 8 AM-10 AM or 6 PM-8 PM: less crowded, ideal slanting light for photos.
- Bring Bluetooth earphones: the audio guide is available on smartphones (saves time at the entrance).
- Want to go up high? Elevator access to a tower is reserved separately and is done in groups of 15.
N.B. (Nota Bene)
AEIP stands for "Evento de Excepcional Interés Público," a Spanish label that entitles patron companies to tax deductions. **Not to be confused** with the UNESCO World Heritage designation (already achieved in 2005 for certain parts of the basilica).
