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'Let's build peace,' Gaudí's 100-year-old dream embraced by AI
🇰🇷 South Korea /Culture & Society

'Let's build peace,' Gaudí's 100-year-old dream embraced by AI

From Dong-A Ilbo · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Ongoing story
  • The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is nearing completion of its tallest tower, the Tower of Jesus Christ, 145 years after construction began.
  • The completion marks the basilica as the world's tallest church building at approximately 172.5 meters.
  • Pope Francis is scheduled to visit to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Antoni Gaudí's death and officiate a dedication Mass.

Barcelona's iconic Sagrada Familia basilica is on the cusp of a significant milestone as it prepares to complete the Tower of Jesus Christ, the tallest and most crucial of its 18 spires. This achievement comes 145 years after construction first began on Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece.

Gaudí was always open to new technologies. If Gaudí were alive, he would have used modern technologies like programming, but he would not have let machines make decisions and would have directed the design.

— Mauricio CortésThe architect overseeing the Tower of Jesus Christ construction commented on Gaudí's potential use of modern technology.

Upon the completion of this tower, the Sagrada Familia will officially become the world's tallest church building, reaching an impressive height of approximately 172.5 meters. The basilica, a symbol of Catalonia and a UNESCO World Heritage site, is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Gaudí's death. Pope Francis is expected to visit on June 10th to lead a special Mass and commemorate the renowned architect.

Gaudí dedicated his 43-year life to this cathedral, and after him, generations of architects, donors, and the citizens of Barcelona have done their best to get here. I hope Gaudí would be proud of this moment.

— Mauricio CortésThe architect reflected on the collective effort and dedication poured into the Sagrada Familia's construction over the decades.

Gaudí, known as 'God's Architect,' dedicated 43 years of his life to the basilica, meticulously designing its unique blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles inspired by natural forms. Despite facing challenges, including the loss of original plans during the Spanish Civil War, subsequent architects have striven to realize Gaudí's vision. Modern technologies, including AI and drones, were employed in the construction of the cross atop the Tower of Jesus Christ, ensuring efficiency and precision while respecting Gaudí's original intent.

Gaudí also would not have wanted the livelihoods of ordinary people to be taken away.

— NickelA local resident criticized the planned plaza expansion, expressing concern for the impact on the community.

However, the basilica's completion is not without its challenges. The planned construction of a grand entrance staircase requires the demolition of surrounding buildings, leading to ongoing disputes with local residents and shopkeepers who fear displacement. Despite these local tensions, the project continues, with completion anticipated in the mid-2030s, symbolizing a fusion of historical vision and contemporary innovation.

We are created without limits. In a culture full of constant stimulation, cultivate silence and inwardness.

— Pope FrancisThe Pope delivered a speech in Catalan in Barcelona, emphasizing introspection amidst a stimulating culture.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Dong-A Ilbo in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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