Antoni Gaudí, celebrated as one of the most innovative architects of the 20th century, has been officially declared “venerable” by Pope Francis on April 14, 2025. This decree places Gaudí on the path to possible sainthood in the Roman Catholic Church, recognizing the visionary architect’s “heroic virtues.” To achieve beatification, a miracle attributed to Gaudí will need to be verified, with an additional miracle required for canonization. The process for such recognition can span many years or even centuries.
The recognition of Gaudí’s contributions was also highlighted by the Sagrada Familia's official statements, which underlined how he was referred to as God’s architect after his passing at the age of 73. Gaudí, whose full name is Antoni Gaudí i Cornet, was born on June 25, 1852, in Reus, Spain, moving to Barcelona for his architectural studies, where he earned his degree in 1878. His collaboration with influential patrons like Eusebio Güell launched him into a career filled with monumental works, including his most famous and unfinished masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia, which he began overseeing in 1883.
The Sagrada Familia continues to stand as a symbol of beauty and faith, with heartfelt aspirations that Gaudí's recognized virtues will inspire future generations in both architecture and spiritual endeavors.
