It’s been a long, long time coming for one of Spain’s most famous sites: The Sagrada Familia, Gaudi’s Barcelona basilica, entered the final stage of construction in what is now its 133rd year of work.
© Alexsalcedo | Dreamstime
The final stage involves adding six new towers to the Roman Catholic basilica, bringing the total number to 18. That will finish Gaudi’s work, which he actually inherited in 1883 from another architect.
© Nike Sh | Dreamstime
The famous Barcelona building has drawn criticism and praise, almost in equal measure. Some call it hideous, while others praise its intricacies. Some 3 million tourists visit annually, and they’re helping foot the exorbitant bill for construction. The annual budget hovers around $27 million, which is also buoyed by private donations.
© Viorel Dudau | Dreamstime
At this rate, the Sagrada Familia will be completed around 2026, if the current projections stay on track. And finally, once it’s done, visitors can start pouring in to see the wonder in its fully realized state.
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