Barcelona Gears Up for Gaudí Centenary in 2026: A Monumental Boost for Tourism
Barcelona is preparing for a landmark year as it commemorates the 100th anniversary of the death of the illustrious architect, Antoni Gaudí. The city anticipates that the celebrations will significantly bolster the region’s tourism industry.
The Catalan government has officially proclaimed 2026 as the ‘Gaudí Year.’ This year will be marked by extensive cultural festivities that underscore Gaudí’s revolutionary influence on Barcelona’s cityscape. This tribute aligns with Barcelona’s recognition as the UNESCO World Capital of Architecture for 2026, further elevating its global prestige.
Among the key events is the completion of the Tower of Jesus Christ at the Sagrada Família, set to become the tallest church in Europe at 172.5 meters. In celebration, the basilica is offering Barcelona residents a 50 percent discount on tickets throughout 2026. Additionally, the city will host the 2026 Gaudí International Congress in June at Casa Milà (La Pedrera), uniting architects and researchers for scholarly debates on Gaudí’s work.
New walking tours will be launched, linking major Gaudí landmarks such as Casa Batlló, Park Güell, and Casa Milà. These will be complemented by special exhibitions, multimedia presentations, and interactive displays. Tourism officials forecast a considerable increase in international visitors, especially architecture enthusiasts keen to explore Gaudí’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Source: Travel and Tour World