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Gaudi
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Gaudi
Sagrada Familia
Sometimes also referred to as the Penitance Church of the Holy Family. In 1881, businessman Bocabella launched the plan for a magnificent church extension for a children’s creche for working families. City architect Francisco de Villar completed the almost neo-gothic crypt but gave up on it. Gaudi took over the work and designed a church with no less than 12 towers (equalling the number of apostles).
Following his death in 1926, the work continued for some time. However, after a long break the works were resumed in 1955. This led to the construction of the first four towers. In 1992, the work on the nativity facade was completed. It is obvious that the nativity facade is by the artist himself. The nativity facade is already a modernisation of Gaudi’s style. Definitely visit the museum that is included in the entrance ticket. Due to the construction work, the interior is hidden to a large extent, but it is worth buying an entrance ticket. You can climb up one of the finished towers. The construction work will only be completed around 2030!
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Parc Guëll
Gaudi’s maecenas, his patron of the arts, wished to build an area of villas in the style of the artist. However, it never materialised. Now there is a beautiful entrance with steps leading towards a hall with columns. Do climb the steps. There you will find a terrace with benches in Gaudi style. The park also boasts a museum dedicated to Gaudi, his life and work. This is also where you can see furniture designed by Gaudi. Parc Guëll is just outside of the town, located on a hilltop. It is served by public transport and there is a Bus Turistic stop approx. 500 m away. Then you still have a steep climb ahead of you.
Casa Battlo
This is a house which was completely converted by Gaudi, the architect, between 1904-1906. The work was commissioned by the family Battlo. On the first floor, the apartment was designed completely by Gaudi (even the furniture) and it is considered as one of the most beautiful designs by the architect. What is so striking in this house is the ceramic tiling which is so typical for this style. The illustration depicts another example: Casa Amattler (1900) by another artist.
Casa Mila or La Pedrera
Built between 1906-1910, this is one of his last large-scale works and one of his greatest successes. It was built for the family Mila and named 'La Pedrera' because it looks rather like a stone quarry. In the past, the roof featured a large statue of Holy Mary, whereas it now stands out because it features beautiful chimneys.
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Picture: © iStockphoto.com/Dainis Derics
Text: GVDV/RD - © AT-Europe bvba
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