* Above image courtesy of tony2016
Written by Patrice Sweeney
Work started on the Gothic cathedral in 1882. Renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, whose name is almost synonymous with activity connected to the church, picked up the architectural mantle in 1914. By 1926, the year that Gaudi died, less than a quarter of the structure was done. The Spanish Civil War disrupted its progress, and only by the 1950s was construction resumed again.
Screenshot taken from the B1M Youtube Channel
By 2015 the temple was considered to be 70% complete. Current plans feature the addition of six more towers to be added to the existing 12, and one will even reach up to 564 feet. These fundamental architectural aspects are set to be completed by 2026, and will coincide with the centennial anniversary of Gaudi’s death. However, further detail on the facade may take longer to execute. Chief architect Jordi Fauli hazards that decorative construction will come to a close by roughly 2032.
Screenshot taken from the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia Youtube Channel
By that time, the Sagrada Familia will feature towers dedicated to religious figures such as the Virgin Mary, and the four evangelists John, Luke, Matthew and Mark. A hierarchical order of the spires will be established through their varying heights, and the Tower of Jesus Christ shall loom as the tallest amongst them.
