On June 10th, 2026, Barcelona celebrated the 100th anniversary of Antoni Gaudí’s death, honouring the architect who shaped the city’s unique skyline. Exhibitions, concerts and cultural events across the city paid tribute to his legacy, inviting visitors to rediscover landmarks such as Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló and Park Güell through new perspectives and special programmes.
The celebrations coincide with Barcelona being named UNESCO World Capital of Architecture 2026, a year-long programme running from February to December with more than 1,500 activities across the city’s ten districts. Exhibitions, guided architecture routes, workshops and debates will transform Barcelona into a living laboratory of urban design, exploring everything from historic Modernisme to contemporary ideas about sustainability, housing and public space.
One of the highlights will be the UIA World Congress of Architects 2026, taking place from 28 June to 2 July, when thousands of architects, researchers and urban planners from around the world will gather in the city to discuss the future of architecture and cities.
At the same time, Gaudí’s most famous masterpiece reaches a historic milestone: the central tower of the Sagrada Família has reached its final height of 172.5 metres, making it the tallest church in the world and marking a symbolic moment in the basilica’s long construction history.
Together, these events make 2026 an extraordinary year to experience Barcelona — a city where architecture is not only heritage, but a living part of everyday life.
