It’s hard to think of any other place where a single architect is so widely praised and represented throughout an entire city than in Barcelona. When we were researching things to do and see during our visit, the name “Gaudí” just kept on popping up. After a few days of walking down Passeig de Gràcia and wondering around the city, it was obvious why. Antoni Gaudí, an architect who lived during the late 1800s and early 1900s, was responsible for designing some of the most eclectic buildings and parks in Barcelona. In fact, his works are so impressive and unique that they were designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1984. In all, there are seven properties that make up the “Works of Antoni Gaudí.” The properties include:
• Parque Güell
• Palacio Güell
• Casa Mila
• Casa Vicens
• Gaudí’s work on the Nativity façade and Crypt of La Sagrada Familia
• Casa Batlló
• Crypt in Colonia Güell
We managed to visit most of his works for our 3rd UNESCO site.
Casa Batlló
Casa Mila
Parque Güell
Parque Güell
However, in our opinion, there was one that stood far above the rest – La Sagrada Familia. Words can’t describe just how stunning this building is from the inside out. Construction began in 1883 and is still being worked on today. According to their website, construction is expected to be completed in the first third of the 21st century. In 2010, the temple was consecrated as a place of worship by Pope Benedict XVI and proclaimed a minor basilica. It was truly incredible.
Sagrada Familia
Stained Glass in Sagrada Familia
“The Trees” of Sagrada Familia
Rainbow Reflection
Ceiling Pattern in Sagrada Familia
Back of Sagrada Familia
Seeing the unique architecture was truly a highlight of our time in Barcelona and hopefully we can go back once the basilica construction is finished!
-The Morts
This is Art Nouveau architecture, my absolute favorite! If you want other names of architects and sites to visit across Europe where you can see more from this awesome movement, let me know. PS cool fact about Sagrada Familia (that you probably already knew, maybe someone reading this doesn’t) is that it was designed upside-down using weights on strings to get the placement right on all the arches. Enjoy your trip guys!
Its really incredible… and they had models of the weights and strings on display which was cool to see… Amazing to see in person!
I am in awe of these photographs! So beautiful. The Parque Güell- stunning!