Yesterday (18th Sept) we spent the day exploring the modernist architecture of Antoni Gaudi (1853-1926). Fantastic!
Got the hang of the Metro (underground) and headed off!
Casa Mila (La Pedrera) is interesting for its facade curves & elaborate metalwork. Casa Batllo (World Heritage Site) has ceramic tiles and mosaics. Both buildings have chimneys of all shapes and kinds characteristic of Gaudi’s work and the interiors,which we didn’t view, are also just as well known.
Tapas and drinks (hot work being a tourist), a visit to the Bascilica Santa Maria Del Pi (not Gaudi’s) and a catch-up on market photos!
Then toured Palau Gueull (World Heritage Site), also designed by Gaudi and built to resemble a small palace – incredible features again-wrought-iron work, fantastical chimney shapes using volcanic stones & broken tile mosaics, clever use of materials and features to capture natural lighting in the house, elaborate sculptured ceilings, parabolic arches, an organ, leather work, stables under the house and so on! Very very cool and amazing given when it was built.
The highlight of the day though would have to be our visit to Sagrada Familia – ticked off my bucket list- it’s a must see. Fantastic. Begun over a 100 years ago, it is probably Barclelona’s most recognisable building only 2 facades showing – The Nativity and The Passion. Work happening daily – lots of cranes- $33m budget each year plus donations and they are trying to complete by 2026! Now using Scottish stone as best material that is available.
Incredible height in the building with soaring carved columns and pillars and again natural light just pours in – reflections from stained glass just beautiful. All very symbolic and decoration reflective of shapes of nature and of religious symbolism.
Hard to describe and do this justice! See some photos and imagine. Barcelona Photos
Off to join cruise later this morning.
Comments
Comment by Jane on 2013-09-19 14:51:40 -0700
Hi there Gill and Mark, the rain here matches the mood of kiwis as the America’s Cup continues to elude us. But loved being in Barcelona with you. I remember the jugs of sangria and the delicious tapas,- and how quickly one could become a ‘local’ in a bar.. Mike’s been talking about Spain,- think your blogs will confirm his thinking. And thanks for making the effort with your stories and posting the lovely photos. Enjoy the criuse! Jane and Mike
