The Pope named the architect Gaudi among the blessed ones

The decision was an important step towards the possible canonization of the architect - his recognition as a saint in the Roman Catholic Church.

Antonio Gaudi was born on June 25, 1852, in the Catalan city of Reus. He is considered one of the main representatives of architectural modernism. Most of his works, including the iconic Sagrada Family, were erected in Barcelona. The Holy Family Temple - the main project of Gaudi's life - has been under construction since the end of the 19th century and is expected to be completed next year.

The process of recognizing the architect as a saint began in 2015. However, in Catalonia, this decision sparks controversy - part of the secular community opposes the architect's religious elevation, considering it a cultural rather than a spiritual symbol.