It is impossible to wander through Barcelona and not see the influence of Antonio Gaudi. The world-famous architect was a loyal Catalan. His work was not always appreciated by citizens or critics. However, his work is now showcased and respected throughout Spain and the world.
Gaudi’s modernist (art nouveaux) style is unique and contains highly individualistic designs. Gaudi’s work always included forms from nature within his designs. Sea shells, leaves and wandering vines were often interwoven in his structures.
There are many Gaudi buildings and sculptures throughout Barcelona but there are several you just won’t want to miss. They are the Sagrada Familia, Casia Batllo, Casa Mila and Park Guell.
Sagrada Familia is by far Gaudi’s most famous undertaking. He took over the project in 1883 from Francesco del Villar. In 1891 the main crypt was completed. Work continues to this day on the spectacular structure. Gaudi’s original architectural drawings were destroyed by anarchists in 1983 during the Spanish Civil War. This has made it extremely difficult for designers to complete the structure as Gaudi intended. Differences between his work and later construction can be noticed. For this reason Gaudi has been known as “God’s Architect.” A devout Catholic, in his later life he abandoned all secular work and devoted his life to the Sagrada Familia and spent his last years living in the crypt and overseeing all work.
Penniless and down on his luck, Gaudi was hit by a tram in Barcelona in 1926. Due to his ragged appearance he was taken to the pauper’s hospital where he died three days later. He was given a Spanish hero’s funeral and more than half of Barcelona turned out to bid him adieu. He is buried in Sagrada Familia.
If you include the Sagrada Familia in your travels you will not be disappointed. Even non-religious folks can appreciate the beauty and majesty of the building. Take the elevator to the top for spectacular views of Barcelona as well as close-ups of the detailed mosaic tiles on the roofs. The mosaic style runs rampant throughout Barcelona and many of Gaudi’s other works
Casa Batllo was a commissioned by a middle class patron who wanted to impress his surrounding neighbors with something very different. As it turns out there was quite a competition among the architects of that period in Barcelona. The Passeig de Gracia, in the Eixample district, is still a main thoroughfare in Barcelona, which now houses some of the finest retailers in the world – Gucci, Tiffany and many others are teaming with customers day and night. It is here where Casa Batllo sits amongst the shoppers and sightseers just waiting to be explored. Also known as the “house of bones,” the structure has a skeletal, organic feeling. The entire façade is covered with broken colored tiles. A tour is offered throughout the day and evening where you can explore the interiors. Headsets are included with the tour and the history enfolds as you climb the stairs and hear the stories of the building’s patron and Gaudi. The façade of the building is well lit at night and makes for some beautiful photographs.
Casa Mila or La Pedrera, “The Quarry,” is another of Gaudi’s treasures along the beautiful Passeig de Gracia. The building is referred to as “The Quarry” because of the wavy, rippling gray stone façade. Built for a wealthy industrialist, the building was surrounded by controversy. Never completely finished and fined for many building code violations the building fell into disrepair. After ten years of renovation it was reopened and turned into a cultural center in 1996.
Admission to the building includes a tour of the building, an apartment and the wonderful rooftop views, which are especially breathtaking in the evening as the sun sets.
This building was Gaudi’s last civil work before devoting his life to Sagrada Familia.
Park Guell is a municipal garden complex on the hill of El Carmel in the Gracia district. It’s accessible via public train, car or taxi. Be warned that if taking the train it is a distance to the park and mostly uphill. While it’s a lovely journey it’s not for everyone. However, the park is something that you really don’t want to miss, so perhaps a cab ride would be in order. The park has sprawling grounds where you can spend an entire afternoon. It is lovely for a picnic or lazy afternoon. The highlights include a main terrace, which is surrounded by a long bench in the form of a sea serpent. The bench is covered in beautiful multi-color mosaic tile. Large mosaic lizards climb about the structure as well. Wonderful panoramic views from many vantage points throughout the park enhance the scene. A snack shop and petite café sell small snacks, tasty torpedo sandwiches, soda and beer. Entrance to the park is free.
