100th anniversary of Antoni Gaudí's death/ Pope Leo XIV celebrates solemn mass at Sagrada Familia

2026-06-10 08:31:00, Kosova & Bota CNA

100th anniversary of Antoni Gaudí's death/ Pope Leo XIV celebrates

One of the most important events of the Year of Gaudi is taking place today at the iconic Sagrada Família basilica in Barcelona, ??on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of the death of the legendary architect Antoni Gaudí.

The solemn Mass will be presided over by Pope Leo XIV, in the presence of cardinals, bishops and priests from various countries. Choirs and musicians from all over Catalonia will also participate in the ceremony, filling the basilica with hymns and church music.

After the mass, a special visual spectacle dedicated to the life and work of Gaudí will be organized. The Tower of Jesus Christ and the sky over Barcelona will be illuminated with special effects, in honor of the creativity of the Catalan architect.

The Pope's visit gives special significance to the event, which is considered the culmination of commemorative activities dedicated to Gaudí. It is also the most important stop of the Pope's seven-day visit to Spain and the first papal visit to the country in 15 years.

During the ceremony, the Pope will bless the Tower of Jesus Christ, which was completed in February last year. At a height of about 172 meters, it has made the Sagrada Familia the tallest Christian church in the world. At its peak stands a giant ceramic cross, now one of the most recognizable elements of the monument.

The legacy of Antoni Gaudi

The history of the Sagrada Familia is closely linked to Antoni Gaudí, who took on the project in 1883 with the aim of creating a monumental symbol of the Catholic faith.

His unique style, inspired by nature and organic forms, has left an indelible mark on Barcelona's architectural identity.

Gaudí died on June 10, 1926, after being hit by a tram. Due to his modest clothing, many passersby initially mistook him for a vagrant, which delayed medical attention.

A century later, construction of the basilica continues. Despite wars, economic crises, and technical challenges, work has never been completely halted. Project leaders estimate that the monument's full completion could be achieved by 2034.

Today, about 90% of visitors to the Sagrada Familia come from outside Spain, and ticket revenue funds the continued construction. The monument remains one of the most visited attractions in the world and the most recognizable symbol of Antoni Gaudí's legacy. /CNA