Pope Leo XIV is set to lead Mass at La Sagrada Familia, Barcelona’s renowned basilica, on Wednesday. During the ceremony, he will bless the highest spire of what has become the tallest church worldwide. This distinctive Modernist basilica has been under construction for over 140 years, and in February, the central Tower of Jesus Christ was completed. It stands 566 feet tall, topped with a massive five-story ceramic cross.
The Mass in Barcelona marks a highlight of Pope Leo’s weeklong visit to Spain. It is his first major European trip since becoming pontiff last year, and the first papal visit to Spain in 15 years. Despite a notable decline in church attendance across Spain, similar to trends in Western Europe, around 1.2 million people gathered in Madrid on Sunday to attend an outdoor Mass led by the pope.
On Monday, Pope Leo made history as the first pope to address the Spanish parliament. He cautioned lawmakers about how military tension and political divisions contribute to a growing spiritual and cultural crisis. He criticized Europe’s increasing defense budgets, which have risen due to ongoing conflict and international pressures. Instead, he urged European governments to invest in peace-building and aid for the underprivileged. “Weapons may cause temporary silence, but they cannot create genuine and lasting peace,” he commented.
Throughout his visit, Pope Leo has primarily spoken in Spanish, with some remarks expected in Catalan, reflecting the linguistic diversity in Catalonia, where Barcelona is located.
The pope’s visit also coincides with the anniversary of Antoni Gaudí’s death, the visionary Catalan architect behind La Sagrada Familia. Gaudí took charge of the basilica’s construction in 1883, aiming to create a unique monument of Catholic faith. His distinctive style incorporated naturalistic and playful elements. Although Gaudí’s work halted abruptly when he died in 1926, the project has continued.
The basilica’s completion is anticipated by 2034, a testament to Gaudí’s enduring legacy. Foreign visitors have significantly funded its construction, with entrance fees supporting the ongoing work. Visitors from abroad, especially Americans, outnumber Spaniards in contributing to La Sagrada Familia’s enduring vision.
Mauricio Cortés, a Mexican architect, is one of many continuing Gaudí’s grand vision. He played a crucial role in fixing the 24-ton cross atop the Tower of Jesus Christ.
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