Observe Unique Architecture in Barcelona Spain
The Architecture Design of Gaudi Can Be Seen Throughout the City
Jan 19, 2009
Gaudi constructed his structural designs in Barcelona during the late 1800's and early 1900's. He was born in 1852, completed his architectural degree in 1878, and died in 1926. Many do not know that Gaudi had severe arthritis growing up and he spent much of his time outdoors observing animals and plants. His architectural work has a unique style and much of it was influenced by his exposure to nature as a child. Mentioned here are a few of his popular structures.
Sagrada Familia
This is Gaudi’s most famous piece of work and a very popular site that tourists visit. Gaudi started this Cathedral in 1882 and did not stop working on it until he died. It is still under construction and is not projected to finish until 2026, the earliest. With its tall spires, the Sagrada Familia is very recognizable and can be seen from a distance.
Inside of the Cathedral, are tree-like columns that reach to the tall ceiling. There is also museum, a shop, and a lift that goes to the top of one of the towers. If the lines are too long to get inside, even a walk around the outside perimeter makes the Sagrada Familia worth the stop to see.
Hours: 9am-6pm (Oct-Mar); 9am-8pm (Apr-Sep). Address: Carrer Mallorca 401. The Blue or Purple Line, Sagrada Familia, is the closest Metro stop.
Park Güell
Park Güell was named after Eusebi Güell, who hired Gaudi to design a garden city for Barcelona’s rich to live. Güell provided the financial backing for the construction of Gaudi’s colorful mosaics and structures throughout the botanical gardens. The project didn’t pan out and Gaudi ended up living in one of the only few houses actually built. The park was later donated to the city.
There are multiple entrances, but the main entrance is marked by the words, “Park Guell” written in mosaic outside of the main gate off of Carrer d'Olot. Right after the entrance is a double staircase with more ceramic mosaic which leads to the Greek theatre. The Greek theatre is a large open area with views of the city. On the perimeter are curved, vibrant benches for visitors to sit and view the park.
Hours: 9am-9pm (June-Sept); Times vary other times of year. Address: Carrer D'Olot, 7 The Metro: Lesseps. If taking the metro, there will be a long uphill walk to reach the park. Admission cost is free.
Casa Batlló
Josep Batlló was the owner of the building and requested it to be refurbished by Gaudi around 1904. This structure stands out because if the original style with the façade covered by brightly colored mosaics that was inspired by marine life. The columns look like bones and the balconies look like parts of a skull. The Batlló family lived in the bottom two floors and the top floors were rented apartments. Tours are offered for the lower floors and inside there is a gift shop.
Hours: 9am-2pm (Mon-Sat); 9am-8pm (Sun). Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 43. Take the Calle Aragó-Rambla Catalunya exit on the Green Line on the Metro . Entrance Fees is 16.50 Euros.
La Pedrera (Casa Milà)
Impressed by the architecture of the Casa Batlló, Pedro Milà asked Gaudi to build an apartment complex. The construction took place between 1906 and 1910. The structure has wavy balconies and the building does not have any straight lines. Looking at the structure, it looks just as unique as Gaudi’s other buildings. It is not as colorful as the Casa Batlló, but still has a distinctive style. During construction it was dubbed, La Pedrera which means the quarry because of its cliff-like appearance. The inside has an Art Nouveau feel and tourists can visit the top floor and the roof.
Hours: 9am-6.30pm (Nov-Feb); 9am-8pm (Mar-Oct). Address: Passeig de Gràcia ,92. Take the Diagonal exit on the Green Line on the Metro. Entrance Fee: 9.50 Euros.
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