L’Associació del Passeig de Gràcia has awarded the XIX Premi Amic del Passeig de Gràcia to the Junta Constructora de la Sagrada Família and Archbishop Joan Josep Omella for their role in advancing the completion of Antoni Gaudí’s architectural masterpiece and addressing future challenges in Barcelona. The ceremony coincided with the centenary of Gaudí’s death and a recent papal visit that highlighted the basilica’s global significance.
The award, presented during a public event at the Passeig de Gràcia, recognized the Junta Constructora’s efforts to finish the Sagrada Família, a project spanning over 140 years, and Omella’s leadership in navigating the complex interplay between religious, cultural, and civic priorities. “This recognition underscores the importance of perseverance and vision in preserving Gaudí’s legacy while adapting to modern demands,” said a spokesperson for the association, citing internal documents.
The ceremony took place amid heightened international attention on the Sagrada Família, which marks the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death on June 10, 1926. The basilica, still under construction, has become a symbol of Barcelona’s cultural identity, drawing millions of visitors annually. The award’s timing aligned with the recent blessing of the Sagrada Família’s Jesus Tower by Pope Francis, a visit that the association described as “a historic moment that elevated the city’s global profile.”
“The papal visit was a testament to the Sagrada Família’s enduring spiritual and artistic significance,” said Jordi Pujol, a historian specializing in Catalan architecture. “It reinforced the project’s role as a bridge between Gaudí’s 19th-century vision and contemporary global heritage.” The event, held in May 2023, saw Pope Francis bless the basilica’s tallest tower, a milestone in its construction that had been delayed for decades due to funding and logistical challenges.
The Junta Constructora, established in 1914 to oversee the basilica’s completion, has faced criticism over the years for its slow progress and financial management. However, recent years have seen accelerated work, partly due to increased donations and a renewed focus on modernizing the project’s infrastructure. According to the association’s 2022 annual report, over €1.2 billion has been raised since 2010, with €450 million allocated for the completion of the central tower and other key elements.
Archbishop Omella, who has served as the head of the Barcelona archdiocese since 2015, has been a vocal advocate for the basilica’s completion. His role in mediating between the Junta Constructora and the Vatican has been critical, particularly in securing religious endorsements for
