Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Familia Basilica has claimed the new title of tallest church in the world.
It has overtaken Ulm Münster, now reaching a height of 162.91 meters (534.5 feet), after part of its central tower was removed on Thursday.
Ulm Münster, a Gothic Lutheran church built between 1543 and 1890, held the title of tallest church in the world at 161.5 meters tall until the Sagrada Familia beat it by one metre.
The central tower of the Sagrada Familia is expected to be completed next year, at which point it will reach 172 meters (just over 564 feet).
Construction of the Sagrada Familia continues.
Construction of the Sagrada Familia began in 1882, but architect Antoni Gaudí never expected to see it completed. When he died in 1926, only one tower was standing.
The central tower of the basilica is due to be completed next year, the 100th anniversary of Gaudi’s death.
Work on the facade and interior of the church would continue for years. According to church officials, complete completion is expected within the next decade.
Last year, 4.9 million people paid to visit the site, with 15% of those tourists coming from the United States.
Edited by: Shawn Sinico