The Sagrada Família is the synthesis of Gaudí’s architectural theory and practice. The first stone was laid in 1882 and the architect worked on the project for over 40 years. During the last 15 years of his life, Gaudí lived in his workshop-studio in the church. During his lifetime, Gaudí completed the four towers of the Nativity façade. He left an overall plan of the project and his surviving drawings have enabled building work to continue. When the Sagrada Família is completed, it will have 18 towers, the tallest of which will stand 170 metres.