Vatican puts Gods architect Antoni Gaud on path to sainthood
GuardianAPR 19
Vatican Advances 'God's Architect' Antoni Gaudí's Path to Sainthood
Above: People watch a light show projected on the facade of Spanish architect Antoni Gaudí's Sagrada Familia Basilica, marking the start of the Holy Week, in Barcelona on April 14, 2025. Image copyright: LLUIS GENE/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Narrative A
The push for Gaudí's sainthood represents a natural recognition of an architect whose profound Catholic faith shaped every aspect of his work, transforming architecture into a form of divine worship and inspiring countless visitors to embrace Christianity through the transcendent beauty of his designs.
Narrative B
The Vatican’s push to canonize Gaudí seems aimed at elevating culturally iconic figures, potentially at the expense of more traditionally qualified candidates. Though his architecture is rich in religious imagery, critics argue his faith was more symbolic than spiritual, and lacks the depth typically seen in sainthood cases.