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The Sagrada Família basilica reached its final height of 566 feet with the installation of a 100-ton cross atop the Tower of Jesus Christ. The completion has inflamed a tourism backlash in Barcelona, as the tower will be inaugurated on Wednesday with Pope Leo XIV leading a Solemn Mass, marking 100 years since architect Antoni Gaudí's death.
This commentary argues that Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has gained international influence by opposing the US-led war in Iran, contrasting with other EU leaders. It contends that US President Donald Trump's threats against Spain inadvertently boosted Sánchez's standing, transforming him from a domestic outlier into a moral leader within Europe.
Spain welcomed 97 million foreign visitors in 2025, with a record 9.1 million in April 2026, as tourists avoid the Middle East due to the US-Israeli conflict with Iran. Tourism contributes 13% of Spain's GDP, and the country expects 100 million visitors in 2026, potentially becoming the world's top destination.
During his first papal visit to Spain in 15 years, Pope Leo XIV delivered the first papal address to the Spanish parliament, calling for respect for the dignity of all people, including migrants and the unborn. He urged Spaniards to stop fueling polarization and praised Spain's commitment to peace and solidarity.
Pope Leo XIV celebrated a Mass in central Madrid on Sunday, June 7, 2026, with hundreds of thousands attending. The event featured a flower-carpeted procession route made from over 30,000 flowers. An estimated 600,000 young people knelt in silent prayer during a Saturday vigil. The Pope is visiting Spain until June 12.
Pope Leo XIV attended a cultural event at Madrid's Movistar Arena on Sunday, meeting actor Antonio Banderas and watching a flamenco performance by Sara Baras. In his speech, he said communication can either sow division or build hope.
Pope Leo XIV playfully mimicked the viral 'six-seven' hand gesture while riding the popemobile in Madrid on Saturday. The gesture, an internet meme, delighted crowds during his first visit to an EU country outside Italy. He will inaugurate a tower at Sagrada Familia and meet migrants.
Barcelona midfielder Gavi expressed nervousness and joy after being named to Spain's 2026 World Cup squad, following a serious knee injury. He watched the announcement with teammate Lamine Yamal and felt a 'rush of happiness.' Gavi feared his career could end after the injury.
This commentary features an interview with Spain's national football coach Luis de la Fuente, who argues that the recent success of Spanish coaches abroad reflects a long-standing, well-structured coaching development system in Spain that has been underappreciated. He contends that this recognition should have come much earlier, and that the system's quality is now becoming visible through trophies.
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Spain on June 6, 2026, for his first apostolic visit, calling for national unity and reconciliation. Over 130,000 people greeted him in Madrid. He is scheduled to address parliament on June 8 and visit the Canary Islands on June 11.