Follow the Gaudi trail to Barcelona

Barcelona is considered to be one of the most beautiful cities in the world. This is perhaps not surprising considering it is also the birthplace of famous Catalan architect, Antonio Gaudi. The Modernist style work of Gaudi can be experienced all over the city in its buildings and parks. Indeed, even the most cultured of individuals would perhaps agree that this is the perfect way to experience this popular Spanish metropolis.

The most visited piece of Gaudi’s sights in Barcelona is the Sagrada Familia, or the Expiatory Temple of the Holy Family, as it is also known. The Sagrada Familia is a massive church built in a neo-gothic style, where Gaudi devoted over 15 years of his life to building this temple of faith. Interestingly, it is still under construction despite work beginning in 1882; however, it is scheduled for completion in 2026. This is perhaps the best place to start your Gaudi tour, as you can sample the eccentricities of Gaudi’s style and vision in its full splendour.

If you are walking onto Passeig de Gracia, one of Barcelona’s main streets, then this should give you a further taste of Gaudi’s influence on the city. This wide boulevard is beautifully lined with trees and typical Spanish buildings, with but two exceptions; Battlo House and Mila House. These two buildings are only a few blocks apart on this grand avenue and easily stand out due to their engrossing features.

Batllo House was originally constructed as a terraced house similar to those surrounding it; however, Gaudi transformed it into the warped and eccentric facade that you see today, further displaying his creative architectural skills. Mila House was built on the request of the Mila family who sought a more extravagant example of Batllo House to live in. In response, Gaudi built two blocks of flats for his client, united by the same rippling facade. Much to the delight of tourists and genuinely interested fans of his work, you can visit both of these fine examples of Gaudi’s architectural prowess throughout the year.

Park Guell is another must-see spectacle — a famous garden complex designed by Gaudi. For those interested, trams and buses are widely available close by where you can be conveniently transported to this large park to fully explore its wonders. Park Guell largely consists of a ramshackle collection of paths, sculptures, aqueducts and reservoirs; moreover the warped, chequer-board style entrance staircase is a must see, as is the view from the top of the park over Barcelona.

There are a multitude of other Gaudi sights to take in as you walk around this wonderful city and from doing so you will soon realise why holidays in Barcelona are so popular for tourists and architectural fans alike.

The information contained within this article is the opinion of the author and is intended purely for information and interest purposes only. It should not be used to make any decisions or take any actions. Any links are included for information purposes only.