In a significant development, Pope Francis has declared Antoni Gaudí, the visionary behind Barcelona's Sagrada Familia, as "venerable," acknowledging his "heroic virtue" and advancing him closer to sainthood. 

Gaudí, often referred to as "God's architect," dedicated over four decades to the Sagrada Familia, intertwining his deep Catholic faith with innovative architectural designs. His commitment to the basilica was so profound that he spent his final years living on-site, focusing solely on its construction. Tragically, in 1926, Gaudí died after being struck by a tram while en route to confession. 

The path to sainthood in the Catholic Church involves several stages: being declared venerable, beatification, and finally canonization. With Gaudí now recognized as venerable, the next step requires the verification of a miracle attributed to his intercession for beatification, followed by a second miracle for canonization. 

Gaudí's architectural legacy, especially the Sagrada Familia, stands as a testament to his spiritual devotion and artistic genius, drawing millions of visitors annually. This declaration not only honors his contributions to architecture but also his profound faith and dedication to the Church.