Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Familia is about to reach another important milestone in its long construction history. Next November, the towers of the Evangelists John and Matthew will be completed and blessed, marking a significant step in the architectural masterpiece designed by Antoni Gaudí.
This will complete the four central towers, which will surround the tallest tower, the Jesus Christ Tower, which is expected to be completed by 2026.
The architect-director of the Sagrada Familia, Jordi Faulí, and the general director of the church’s Construction Board, Xavier Martínez, announced this exciting news at a recent press conference.
In addition, they revealed that a blessing mass will be held on November 12, 2023 to celebrate the inauguration of the John and Matthew towers. This event will be accompanied by a program of cultural events to mark the occasion.
Sagrada Familia to reach a milestone with the completion of the John and Matthew towers
The Sagrada Familia is known throughout the world as one of the most impressive and unfinished architectural works in history. Designed by renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, construction began in 1882 and has continued for more than a century.
Gaudí left a profound mark on modern architecture with his unique style and his focus on nature and spirituality.
The Sagrada Familia is an outstanding example of his vision, combining Gothic and modernist elements in a monumental structure. The basilica’s towers, rising skyward like fingers pointing to the divine, are an iconic part of its design and have become a symbol of Barcelona.
Gaudí’s legacy
The completion of the John and Matthew towers is a significant achievement in the ongoing Holy Family project. These towers, like others in the basilica, are decorated with sculptures representing the evangelists and are crowned with symbolic figures.
In this case, the towers will bear sculptures of the tetramorphs, which are allegorical representations of the four evangelists: Matthew, Mark, Luke and John.
John’s tower will be crowned with an eagle, while Matthew’s will bear a winged human figure, similar to an angel. These sculptures, designed by sculptor Xavier Medina-Campeny, will be placed in October and will be illuminated so that they can be admired by all.
Project challenges and delays
Despite continued progress, the Sagrada Familia project has not been without its challenges and delays. Originally, it was intended to complete the basilica in its entirety by the centenary of Gaudí’s death in 2026. However, the COVID-19 pandemic and other challenges have delayed that goal.
