Gaudi’s Barcelona

Sure, they’re obvious tourist attractions—and some draw the largest crowds in all of Barcelona.  But their popularity does not make them any less special, and no trip to this Spanish city would be complete without them.  We’re talking, of course, about Gaudi’s architecture.

It is easy to identify a work of art by Gaudi: fluid, organic forms inspired by nature and brilliant mosaic patterns are his fingerprints.  The bold use of color and twisted iron sculptures further set his work apart from his contemporaries’.  So book a room at one of the many central hotels in Barcelona (like the Olivia Plaza Hotel or Hotel 1898, both close to many attractions) and get ready to experience Gaudi’s Barcelona.

Sagrada Familia

The single most visited tourist attraction in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia is hard to miss in the heart of the vibrant city.  The strange, untamed structure is famous for having a unique texture that makes the giant temple look like it has been dipped in wax.  The building is also widely known for its surrounding controversy:  The Sagrada Familia has been under construction since 1882 and since Gaudi’s death in 1926, other artists have taken over.  Some used more modern materials to finish what Gaudi started—and many say that this is an affront to the architect’s original vision.  Whatever your stance on the subject, you are sure to be struck by the oddly beautiful masterpiece.

Park Guell

Commissioned by and named for Eusebi Güell, the Park Guell was built as a green haven for Spanish aristocracy.  Today, it is thankfully open to the public.  The lush park is home to some unique and lovely works of art.  Be sure to see the colorful dragon fountain that guards the entrance, the panoramic walkway supported by twisting rock pillars, and the tiled terrace that showcases one of the best views of Barcelona.  These and other monuments were designed by Gaudi while he lived in a small house on the premises that has since been converted into a museum.  The park is so large and fascinating that you will want to dedicate at least half a day to it.

Casa Batlló

Located right on the busy Passeig de Gracia, Casa Batlló has a façade that can stop traffic.  At first glance, the exterior looks like it has been made from skulls and bones; however, the “skulls” are actually balconies and the “bones” supporting pillars.  Crafted using fluid shapes and colors inspired by marine life, the creative building was designed by Gaudi for Josep Batlló.  Since the wealthy Spanish aristocrat’s passing, the building has been made open to the public.  Along with unique architectural features like swinging chimneys and the famous Lightwell, the building houses a souvenir shop dedicated to Gaudi.

Casa Milà

Also situated on the Passeig de Gracia is Casa Milà, better known as La Pedrera (“The Quarry.”)  Built by Gaudi from 1905 to 1912, the apartment complex shows many of the architect’s well-known signatures: fluid shapes, uneven textures, and one-of-a-kind details.  One interesting fact is that since Gaudi wanted the apartments’ residents to get to know one another, he only installed a lift on every second floor—thus forcing tenants to communicate.  Along with the other buildings described here, Casa Milà is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Works of Antoni Gaudi.”