Antoni Gaudi was one of the most important
modernist style architects worldwide. Many of his most extraordinary
works are to be found in Barcelona.
FINCA GÜELL
(1884-1887), "Av. de Pedralbes 77"
Through a narrow portal the visitor enters a fantastic world
of forms and colors, which the genial architect created
for his friend and sponsor, industrialist Eusebi Güell.
THE PORTAL OF FINCA MIRALLES
"Passeig Manuel Girona"
Only a small work for another friend of his, in an interesting
contrast to "Casa Calvet", which was made during the same
period of time.
BELLESGUARD
(1900-1909), "C. Bellesguard"
Landmark of Catalonia. This gothic building, formerly summer-residence
of king Martí I., was modified by Gaudí in genial harmony
with the original.
COLEGIO TERESIANO
(1888-1889) , "Ganduxer, 87"
When he built this school, Gaudí evidently was inspired
by gothic style and created a masterpiece of simple and
clear lines.
CASA VINCENS
(1883-1888) , "Carrer de les Carolines 18-24"
Gaudí's first architectonic work, and a milestone in his
carreer. The building reminds to a palace of an Arabian
prince, but was made for the owner of a tile factory - material
of which Gaudí made ample use.
CASA MILA / LA PEDRERA
(1906-1910) , "Passeig de Gràcia 92"
The irregularly curved walls of this building remind of
dunes in the desert. When it was made, this building was
too futurist for most people, and gained the nickname La
Pedrera, "the quarry". Today it is considered a landmark
work of modern architecture.
CASA BATLLO
(1904-1906) , "Passeig de Gracia 43"
Another futurist work, with no single straight line at its
front. Even the walls are curved and seem to be covered
by leather.
CASA CALVET
(1898-1900) , "Carrer de Casp"
Perhaps the most traditional work of this master of extravagance.
That might be the reason why Gaudí received for this building
his one and only honorable mention by the city of Barcelona.
PALAU GÜELL
(1886-1889) , "Carrer Nou de la Rambla 3-5"
Another work for Eusebi Güell. With its cupola, stairways
and impressive windows it seems of giant dimensions, but
its base is of only 18 x 12 meters.
SAGRADA FAMILIA
(1883-1926) , "Plaça de la Sagrada Familia"
This great cathedral, inspired by gothic style yet a landmark
of modern architecture, is in reality not much more than
a facade. Gaudí died before he could finish his biggest
and most beloved project, with galleries that should have
room for 1500 singers, 700 children and 5 organs.
PARC GÜELL
(1900-1914) , "Carrer d'Olot"
A fascinating scenario of gardens and overdimensional architectonic
forms which seem to be born by the ground. Gaudí created
an equilibry that usually only exists in nature, but never
in architecture.
CRYPTA COLONIA GÜELL
This small chapel, wonderfully integrated in the landscape,
may be visited at some 15 km from the city.