Following Gaudí’s Steps

Antoni Gaudi, who was born in 1878, is a key piece in the history of art and architecture, not only for Spain, but for the whole world. His work has influenced many generations of architects and designers. His unique vision found ways to merge tradition with a distinctive imagination, adventureness and personal style; revolving around a deeply rooted passion for nature, religion and geometry. His innovative mind came up with functional and constructional ideas that are still current such as the inverted scale models, the use of forged iron, repurposed ceramic mosaics, etc. With projects that can be regarded as multidisciplinary, Gaudí is a true inspiration for those who address architecture in its artistic potential. Here’s a selection of the key stops that must be part of your Gaudí inspired tour.

Park Guell and Guell Palace

Park Guell is one of Gaudí’s most iconic works and one of the most touristic spots in Barcelona. It was commissioned by Eusebi Güell and opened to the public in 1926. This work is proof of Gaudí’s love for nature, which is the main inspiration behind the whole aesthetic; it also features diverse iconography related to politics, religion, history and mythology. All the complex consists of playful and colorful details that are visually stimulating for every visitor. 

The Palace was intended to be a family residence and a gathering place for the bourgeoisie. It’s one of the most iconic buildings in European architecture, as well as a founding stone for Art Nouveau. This luxurious project hosted exquisite materials such as fine wood and marble, art pieces and furniture. Every single corner of Guell Palace is worthy of admiration.

Casa Battló

This was the only completely Modernist work by the architect. He didn’t build it from scratch, instead he reformed a building that was previously built by Emilio Sala Cortés. The inspiration behind Casa Battló was the Mediterranean Sea, with a sense of creative freedom that provides impressive strength to the building. It features sculpted stonework that flows in complete harmony, as well as irregular oval windows, vaulted walls and curved shapes. This unusual building has Gaudí’s personality imprinted all over it.

La Sagrada Familia

Considered Gaudí’s masterpiece, this was the last work he devoted himself to. He actually left every other project and moved to the building’s location in order to focus on this construction during the final stage. This speaks a lot about his artistic intensity, yes, but also about his religious devotion. It merges Art Nouveau with Gothic in a complex structure that includes double aisles, seven chapels. Gaudí died before completing his final work, leaving around three quarters of the project for us to appreciate.

One cannot visit Barcelona without acknowledging Gaudí’s influence. This is merely a glance at his amazing aesthetics and innovation. If you have the chance, do not hesitate to visit the city, explore Gaudí’s heritage and judge by yourself.YOU MUST READ  Le Corbusier Is all Around: The Genius’s Heritage Today.

• Elena Martinique, “Architecture Like No Other – 5 Astonishing Antoni Gaudi Buildings in Barcelona” https://www.widewalls.ch/magazine/antoni-gaudi-work-buildings-architecture
• Antoni Gaudi Works, Casa Battlo,

https://www.casabatllo.es/en/antoni-gaudi/works/

• 5 Must See Gaudi Works of Architecture, I Venture Card,

https://www.iventurecard.com/cn/blog/barcelona/5-must-see-gaudi-works-of-architecture/