Gaudí’s masterpiece claims world’s tallest church title

More than 140 years after construction began, Antoni Gaudí’s famous cathedral has achieved a new milestone, claiming the title of world’s tallest church with its recently installed central tower.

Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia has officially claimed the title of world’s tallest church following the installation of its central tower.

The landmark achievement came as the tower was lifted into place atop the nave, bringing the cathedral’s total height to 162.91 meters. The structure now surpasses Germany’s Ulm Minster, which measures 161.53 meters.

The height record won’t stand for long, however. When construction of the massive tower dedicated to Christ is completed, the cathedral will reach its final height of 172 meters.

Designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, the cathedral broke ground over 140 years ago but has remained unfinished ever since. Mass has been celebrated within its walls since 1885, despite the ongoing construction.

The building has weathered multiple wars and spanned five generations of builders. After more than a century of work, the end is finally in sight.