3D Printed Ceramic Tiles Help Sagrada Família Reach Its Peak! 144 Years Later, Gaudí's Dream Fulfilled

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March 24, 2026 Applications 9517

Interior work on the Sagrada Família continues, with full completion expected in the coming years. After 144 years of waiting, the dream is finally coming true.

On February 20, 2026, Barcelona's Sagrada Família witnessed a historic moment—the final arm of the cross was lifted onto the Tower of Jesus Christ, marking the completion of the cathedral's exterior structure. Standing at 172.5 meters tall, it has become the world's tallest church.

The tower's iconic white glazed ceramic skin was developed by LAMÁQUINA in collaboration with Ceramica Cumella, using robotically 3D printed ceramic tiles.

144 Years of Heritage, 21st Century Craftsmanship

Since construction began in 1882, the basement laboratory of the Sagrada Família has served as a testing ground for advanced architectural techniques. However, LAMÁQUINA's project marks the first time that final components have been 3D printed and used in the church's construction.

The team designed a workflow that honors architect Antoni Gaudí's original vision while incorporating 21st-century innovation: using code-driven processes paired with ceramic production techniques, rather than traditional casting or hand-finishing methods, ensuring consistent quality and structural precision across hundreds of individual components.

Traditional Materials + Modern Techniques

These tiles had to withstand Barcelona's climate while seamlessly integrating into Gaudí's signature curved surfaces, organic forms, and ceramic ornamentation. LAMÁQUINA has demonstrated that digital design and automated manufacturing need not compromise the craftsmanship or durability required for monumental architecture.

Today, these 3D printed tiles are permanently integrated into this world-renowned landmark, gleaming brightly on the Barcelona skyline.