Park Guell

It was supposed to be a planned grouping of high-quality homes, with all the latest features that technology could offer for maximum comfort, all wrapped around in Gaudi’s typical organic design language.

It was built for one of Gaudi’s best friends Eusebi Guell. It took 14 years to build and officially opened as a public park in 1926.

Sixty villas were originally planned, but due to lack of interest only 2 were completed.

Most of the park area is accessible free of charge, only the entry to the monumental zone has a fee.

The project was abandoned when no one decided to invest. Gaudi then bought the model house which had been built on the plot. He lived in a house that was not designed by him.

Casa Batllo

The Casa Batlló was constructed between 1906 – 1912 and is one of his last buildings, before he completely dedicated himself to the Sagrada Familia.

It’s one of the best examples of the Art Nouveau style of architecture, where organic forms and curved lines form shapes that reflect those found in nature.

The entire facade is carved out of natural stone, with white ceramic tiles covering the upper edge of the building. Gaudi also put lifts on every 2nd floor. He wanted the people who lived here to get to know each other.

La Sagrada

The construction of this architectural marvel began in 1882. By the time of his death, only about a quarter was actually completed. Although Gaudi made sure that most of his last few years were dedicated to its construction, he knew it wouldn’t be finished in his lifetime.

Even though it’s at the final stage of construction, the year of completion is estimated to be about 2026.

When the La Sagrada Familia is completed, at 150 years, it would have taken longer to build than the Egyptian Pyramids, and only 50 years less than the Great Wall of China. That’s something to think about.

Gaudi’s inspiration was always nature. Since he claimed that there are no straight lines in nature, his design principles reflect this. Every corner, every wall is organic, almost like it actually grew on its own on that spot. His concept of creation used the design features of trees, shells, waves, rocks etc, to blend all the different elements of a structure together.

Casa Mila

The entire front facade is tiled with a mosaic composed of glass and ceramic discs, making it look like an organic undulating wave form.

In 1926 he was knocked over by a tram-car in Barcelona. He died subsequently, as no one helped him. People presumed he was a pauper due to his simple attire.