Why 2026 is the most important year in 144 years
The Sagrada Familia has been under construction since 19 March 1882. After 144 years two things converge in 2026: the structural completion of the central Tower of Jesus Christ and the 100-year anniversary of Antoni Gaudi tragic death.
Architect Jordi Faulí timed the topping-out to honor the centenary. When the final stone block is placed at 172.5 metres, the basilica becomes the tallest building in Barcelona, just below Montjuic hill at 173 metres (Gaudi explicitly never wanted to surpass nature).
What is new in 2026
Five visible changes for visitors in 2026:
- The 172.5 metre Tower of Jesus Christ visible from across the city, crowned with a 7 metre cross.
- New illumination of the central spire visible from Tibidabo and the Mediterranean.
- Centenary exhibition in the crypt museum (April to December 2026).
- Special masses on 10 June 2026 with the Cardinal of Barcelona.
- Centenary edition tickets that bundle a guided tour and audio app.
Ticket changes and pricing
A centenary surcharge of 2 to 5 euros is expected on every ticket type from May to December 2026. Slots will sell out faster: book 60 days ahead in 2026 instead of the usual 14.
| Ticket | 2025 price | 2026 expected |
|---|---|---|
| Basic admission | EUR 26 | EUR 28 to 30 |
| Audio guide | EUR 30 | EUR 32 to 34 |
| Guided tour | EUR 33 | EUR 35 to 38 |
| Top View with towers | EUR 40 | EUR 43 to 45 |
Centenary events on 10 June 2026
10 June 2026 is the centenary of Gaudi death. The basilica will host a closed liturgy in the morning and reopen to the public from 14:00. Reservations for that day will be capped at 50% of normal capacity, so book earlier. Public transport may close around the basilica between 9:00 and 14:00.
What most blogs miss
Most coverage of the 2026 finish focuses on the topping-out date. The bigger story for visitors: tower access changes. From October 2026 the existing Nativity and Passion towers may close intermittently as scaffolding is dismantled and the central tower opens for special restricted visits in 2027.
If your goal is to climb a Sagrada Familia tower in 2026, book the first months of the year. Spring and summer 2026 will likely be the last "normal" tower season for several years.
How to book for 2026
Book at least 60 days ahead via our partner platform or directly on the official basilica site. Avoid same-day buys: even off-peak weekdays will sell out by mid morning in 2026.
For combo experiences with Park Guell and Casa Batllo, the multi-Gaudi pass is the easiest option in centenary year.
Frequently asked questions
The Tower of Jesus Christ is scheduled to top out by end of 2026 at 172.5 metres. Decorative work and the Glory facade entrance continue to 2030 to 2034.
It is the 100-year anniversary of Antoni Gaudi death. The basilica will host special masses, a centenary exhibition and limited capacity that day.
A centenary surcharge of 2 to 5 euros is expected from May to December 2026 on every ticket type.
172.5 metres, becoming the tallest building in Barcelona but staying just below Montjuic hill at 173 metres as Gaudi intended.
Yes. Book 60 days ahead in 2026 instead of the usual 14. Slots will sell out faster due to the centenary.
