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The most striking features of
Barcelona are the architectural structures
associated with the Catalan Modernist movement, in
particular the buildings of Antonin Gaudi, whose
works have a highly individualized style. Seven are
UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as Park Güell
above. (Luciano Mortula, wikimedia commons)
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A section of Passeig Gracia is called
the "Apple of Discord" where three modernist homes, designed
by Cadafalch, Montaner, and Gaudi, compete for curb appeal.
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Casa Batllo has no straight lines
anywhere in its design. The sculptural windows appear as
face masks.
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Casa Mila, also called La Pedrera (the
Quarry), has many decorative and structural innovations.
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An interior courtyard
at Casa Mila reflects the unique chimneys.
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La Sagrada Familia is visible from
great distances. When finished it will be the tallest church
in the world.
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The church was only 20% finished
when Gaudi died in 1926. Construction has continued since
then and is expected to be finished in 2026.
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The outer facades display sculptures
of Biblical scenes of the life of Christ.
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The stained glass windows cast a glow on
the pipe organ. |
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The verticality of the interior and
the lofty naves symbolize elevation towards God.
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Stained glass windows are modern
interpretations of Gothic windows.
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The interior exemplifies Gaudi's
parabolic and catenary structures.
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Inside the buildings
are displays of the models that Gaudi built to test the
mathematic principles of his unique architectural shapes.
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Workers in the galleries of La Sagrada
Familia continue to develop Gaudi's vision.
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