Tom
Fantastic day today with the famous archtect Antoni Gaudi and some of his creations, including the most famous, the Sagrada Familia, the truly awesome cathedral which has been under construction since 1893. With our amazingly knowledgeable guide Franceco’s explanations, we observed fine details of the planning and construction and the marvelous colors depicting the life of Jesus. We never would have understood or been able to appreciate the wonder of it all without his help.
Francesco also showed us examples of Gaudi’s unique residential work in the city as well as the extraordinary cathedral the Sagrada Famiglia and the park whose name we can’t remember (lovely drinks and wine at dinner). Loopy, much? typed by Val
The park was originally planned as a gated community of 40 hectares. However, political and societal circumstances conspired that only 2 houses were constructed on the site. The developer susequently ceded the park to the city of Barcelona. Gaudi was instrumental in several ways. First, he transformed a proposed public space into an architetural marvel with a serpentine bench that surrounded a sand covered space. Gaudi was ergonomically aware before his time. The benches and sandy area were designed so they drained and conserved water, which ultimately fed fountains and an underground cistern! Under that was a space of columns and mosaics that now afford performance space.
And the final jaw-dropping pieces of whimsy were buildings with gingerbread motifs and mushroom -topped chimneys.
Unique is often overused, but not here! Gaudi had inimitable inspiration, and managed to deliver on his visions in concrete, glass, and awe!
WOW! What more needs to be said.
I read a children’s book about him with one of my reading groups last year. Is the first day I’ve seen of all his work. So great that you got to see it in person.
Photos are fantastic! Thanks so much for sharing!
It’s almost more than you can describe isn’t it? I’m so glad this stop was on your itinerary. I feel like I’m back there with you!