Pope Francis has officially recognized the heroic virtues of renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, placing him on the path to sainthood in the Roman Catholic Church, a significant milestone for the architect known for his iconic Sagrada Familia in Barcelona.
Antoni Gaudí Moves Closer to Sainthood as Pope Francis Recognizes His Virtues

Antoni Gaudí Moves Closer to Sainthood as Pope Francis Recognizes His Virtues
Pope Francis acknowledges the extraordinary contributions of Antoni Gaudí, leading to his recognition as "venerable" and a potential path to sainthood.
On April 14, 2025, Pope Francis signed a decree acknowledging Gaudí's “heroic virtues,” a step towards possible beatification and eventual canonization, pending the verification of miraculous events attributed to him. The Vatican announced the news, emphasizing Gaudí's enduring legacy as "God’s architect," particularly through his work on the Sagrada Familia, which continues to inspire millions.
Born on June 25, 1852, in Reus, Spain, Gaudí later moved to Barcelona, where he earned his architecture degree in 1878. His innovative designs, many of which were created in collaboration with notable figures like industrialist Eusebio Güell, showcased a unique fusion of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles.
Gaudí began work on the Sagrada Familia in 1883 and dedicated his life to the project for over four decades, yet it remains incomplete to this day. The basilica’s website cited a prelate's remark after Gaudí's passing, noting that the Sagrada Familia “opens hearts to beauty with its beauty,” affirming the impact of Gaudí’s work on future generations.
The path to sainthood is lengthy, requiring verification of a miracle for beatification and the confirmation of a second miracle for canonization, a process that could span many years. Nonetheless, the recognition of Gaudí's virtues underscores his remarkable contributions to architecture and culture.
Born on June 25, 1852, in Reus, Spain, Gaudí later moved to Barcelona, where he earned his architecture degree in 1878. His innovative designs, many of which were created in collaboration with notable figures like industrialist Eusebio Güell, showcased a unique fusion of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles.
Gaudí began work on the Sagrada Familia in 1883 and dedicated his life to the project for over four decades, yet it remains incomplete to this day. The basilica’s website cited a prelate's remark after Gaudí's passing, noting that the Sagrada Familia “opens hearts to beauty with its beauty,” affirming the impact of Gaudí’s work on future generations.
The path to sainthood is lengthy, requiring verification of a miracle for beatification and the confirmation of a second miracle for canonization, a process that could span many years. Nonetheless, the recognition of Gaudí's virtues underscores his remarkable contributions to architecture and culture.