The genius who died as an unknown

Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona's most famous architect (Who doesn't know the Sagrada Familia?), He died like a beggar. Literally.

On June 7, 1926, while walking towards the Sagrada Familia, he was hit by a tram on the Gran Via. He was dressed in humble clothes and no one recognized him. He was taken to the Hospital de la Santa Creu without any identification. In his pockets he carried only a rosary, a handkerchief, a small book of the Gospels, and the key to his desk.

He died on June 10, at the age of 73. He was buried in the crypt of the Sagrada Familia, his unfinished work.

The architect who lived in his work

From 1914, Gaudí abandoned all his other projects to dedicate himself exclusively to the Sagrada Familia. He lived in a makeshift cell in the temple's workshop, ate little, slept even less, and refused interviews and tributes.

He dedicated 43 years to the Holy Family, from 1883 until his death. His transformation was radical: from a young bohemian to an urban mystic. His death, trampled by progress, was as symbolic as it was tragic.

2026: the year the Sagrada Familia (almost) finishes

When Gaudí died, only 15% of the temple had been built. In 2026, coinciding with the centenary of his death, the Tower of Jesus, at 172.5 meters, the highest point of the temple, will be completed.

The Civil War destroyed plans, the pandemic halted construction, and although the architectural part will be finished in 2026, some details could be delayed until 2034.

Commemorative events for the centenary of Gaudí

The Sagrada Familia has prepared a special program:

• June 10, 2026: Placement of the crystal cross on the Tower of Jesus.
• Concerts, exhibitions and masses throughout the year.
• Special lighting and night tours.
• Talks and educational activities for all audiences.

See the full program at sagradafamilia2026.org.

Why did it take so long?

Because Gaudí didn't leave detailed plans. Because there was a war. Because models were burned. Because it's financed by donations. Because it's Barcelona. And because, as Gaudí said:

“My client is in no hurry.”

And what does this have to do with HL Comedy Tours?

Everything. On our tours of the Sagrada Familia, we don't just tell you Gaudí's story... we make you experience it. With humor, accuracy, and a touch of theater.

You will discover:

• How Gaudí went from Gothic architect to modernist influencer.
• Why the Holy Family appears in The Simpsons, The Da Vinci Code, and in the dreams of every engineer.
• What do temple towers and bar prices have in common? They keep going up.
• How an unfinished work became the most complete symbol of Barcelona.

Why take a tour with us?

Because seeing the Sagrada Familia is not the same as understanding it and laughing with it. Our tours are designed for everyone: architecture enthusiasts, school groups, families, companies, or couples who want more than just a robotic audio guide.

And in 2026, all the media will be talking about the monument. But you'll be able to say:

“I was there. And they told me about it with jokes.”.

Book your tour of the Sagrada Familia with HL Comedy Tours

Want to experience Gaudí's story like never before? Book now at hlcomedytours.com either histary.es