After 144 years of construction, Spain’s Sagrada Familia spire has been inaugurated. Pope Leo XIV visited the iconic basilica to celebrate a Mass and inaugurate the tower, which makes the church the tallest in the world.

A Testament to Faith

The blessing of the Tower of Jesus Christ signifies a major step in what has been a 144-year journey toward completion for an extraordinary Christian building that attracts millions of visitors a year. According to the basilica, more Americans visit than Spaniards.

During his homily, Pope Leo XIV said it is “faith that shapes the stones,” praising Antoni Gaudí as an “architect inspired by faith” who designed a building that can be likened to a “spiritual pilgrimage.” The Vatican has put Gaudí on the path to sainthood, and in April of last year declared him “venerable,” an important step along the path to canonization.

A Symbol of Hope

The Sagrada Familia is a stunning mixture of color, architectural genius, and geometry. The 18 towers represent different figures from scripture, including the apostles, evangelists, and Virgin Mary, while the three facades depict the life of Jesus along with his death and final judgment.

The pope’s visit follows in the footsteps of Pope Benedict XVI, who in 2010 consecrated the Sagrada Familia. The inauguration of the tower is a significant milestone in the completion of this iconic Christian landmark.

Original reporting: KOAT Albuquerque — read the source article.