Barcelona's Sagrada Família basilica has become the world's tallest church after a section of its central tower was installed on Thursday. The structure, designed by architect Antoni Gaudí, now stands at 162.91 metres (534ft 8in), surpassing the Ulm Minster in Germany, which measures 161.53 metres.
The church's statement confirmed the new height, though it has not formally claimed the title. The difference is 1.38 metres (4ft 6in). However, the building is not yet complete; the central Tower of Jesus Christ will eventually reach 172 metres when finished in the coming months.
A crane placed the first part of the tower atop the nave on Thursday morning. The Sagrada Família's first stone was laid in 1882, and Gaudí, who died in 1926, never expected it to be completed in his lifetime. Only one tower was finished at his death.
Construction has accelerated in recent decades as the basilica became a major tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors captivated by Gaudí's unique blend of Catholic symbolism and organic forms. Entrance fees fund the work; last year, 4.9 million people paid to visit.
Work on the facades and interior decoration will continue for several years, with completion expected around a decade from now, according to church officials. Next year marks the 100th anniversary of Gaudí's death, and the church plans events to celebrate his legacy.
