Sagrada Familia (Spain) will soon be the tallest church in the world

Soon, Spain’s Sagrada Família will claim the title of the world’s tallest church. Until then, three magnificent structures demonstrate how high human creativity and devotion can reach. For lovers of grand, sky-piercing architecture, all eyes are on Barcelona, where the Sagrada Família is nearing completion of its central Tower of Jesus. Once finished, it will rise to 172.5 m, surpassing Germany’s Ulm Minster (161.5 m) to become the tallest church on earth. As of late summer 2025, the tower had reached 142.5 m with the 12th level completed, marking the end of the main body of the tower. Completion—along with the cross crowning the top—is expected by late 2025 or early 2026. 

Until that historic milestone arrives, three towering masterpieces remain in the spotlight. The Ulm Minster in Germany, with its Gothic spire reaching 161.5 m, currently holds the record as the tallest church in the world. In Yamoussoukro, Côte d’Ivoire, the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace stands at 158 m, and is the tallest Catholic church building by height. Meanwhile, Germany’s Cologne Cathedral soars to 157.2 m, with twin spires and a breathtaking Gothic façade—its status is reinforced by its UNESCO World Heritage designation.

These churches are more than architectural wonders: they stand as testaments to faith, art, and humankind’s yearning to reach something greater. The Catholic Church teaches that sacred art is “true and beautiful” when it helps people contemplate the mystery of God—and height can play a role in that beauty. Standing beneath soaring vaults can quiet the mind, open the heart, and stir profound thoughts about hope and purpose.