Pope Leo visits Barcelona to mark Antoni Gaudí centenary at Sagrada Família | 9News Australia

Welcome to 9News Australia. In this special international report, Pope Leo has arrived in Barcelona, Spain, to lead a historic week-long apostolic visit commemorating exactly 100 years since the tragic passing of visionary Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. As the genius behind the iconic Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família, Gaudí's masterful legacy is being celebrated on a global stage. The Roman Pontiff kicked off his tour by presiding over a solemn midday mass in Barcelona before addressing an ecstatic, capacity crowd of over 40,000 faithful who packed out a local stadium to catch a glimpse of the Holy Father on his sweeping tour in the popemobile. The true centrepiece of this monumental papal trip is the official inauguration and blessing of the cathedral's newest milestone: the completion of its massive central tower. Crowned by a breathtaking, five-storey ceramic cross, this latest architectural triumph officially makes the Sagrada Família the tallest church building in the world, standing at an awe-inspiring height of 172 metres. Reporting live from the illuminated cathedral grounds in Barcelona, 9News Europe Correspondent Mimi Becker details the profound cultural and religious significance of tomorrow night's centenary service. While construction on this breathtaking masterpiece has already spanned an incredible 140 years to reach this defining moment, architectural teams confirm that work continues to finally realise Gaudí’s ultimate vision. Watch our full coverage for an exclusive look inside the magnificent stained-glass interior, the sacred crypt, and the towering heights of this unparalleled global landmark. | *Subscribe and 🔔: http://9Soci.al/KM6e50GjSK9* *Get more breaking news at 9News.com.au: http://9Soci.al/iyCO50GjSK6* FOLLOW 9News Australia ► Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/9News/ ► Twitter: https://twitter.com/9NewsAUS ► Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/9news/ Join 9News for the latest in news and events that affect you in your local city, as well as news from across Australia and the world. #9News #BreakingNews #NineNewsAustralia #9NewsAU