Sagrada Família aims to complete basilica within a decade

The Sagrada Família construction board has announced that the basilica could be completed within a decade, provided a key urban planning hurdle is resolved regarding the Glory Facade. To implement Antoni Gaudí’s original design, which includes a monumental staircase and a new main entrance on Mallorca Street, the demolition of existing buildings is required.

Xavier Martínez, the general director of the Sagrada Família, stated that a “minimum solution” would involve demolishing a single building located at Mallorca 410-414. The board has proposed relocating the affected residents to a nearby block. While the board describes negotiations with the Barcelona City Council as “very advanced,” the final decision rests with the local government.

Architect Jordi Faulí noted that work on the lateral towers will begin soon, with the eight columns supporting them expected to rise within a year. However, local residents and the Association of Those Affected by the Sagrada Família construction have expressed concern and surprise over the potential impact on their homes and tranquility, describing the situation as “Kafkaesque.”