Renowned architect Antoni Gaudi made Barcelona his playground during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His unique style and innovative designs quickly earned him a reputation as one of the best architects in Europe – and indeed the world – and visitors flock to Barcelona to view his creations. Set in squares, perched on street corners and poised along the skyline, Gaudi’s masterpieces are Barcelona’s most iconic sites and have become ingrained in the city’s spirit.
Summer is the best time to visit the city and view these wonders when temperatures are warm but pleasant for exploring. You can look into last-minute holidays to Barcelona if you’re eager to see them this year: good-value deals are often available. With beaches, a captivating culture and delicious cuisine, Barcelona is a fantastic holiday destination beyond Gaudi’s architecture.
Yet to be completed – even though 140 years have passed since the first stone was laid – La Sagrada Familía is one of the most ambitious and ornate manmade structures in the world.
The unfinished Catholic church towers over the city but the central spire of Jesus Christ will sit lower than Barcelona’s highest hill as Gaudí didn’t want his creation to encroach on the work of God. Over 50 types of stone have been used in its construction which follows to the letter Gaudí’s original plan, set out almost a century ago.
Nicknamed ‘La Pedrera’ (‘stone quarry’ in Catalan) by the locals due to its rough-hewn exterior, Casa Milà was Gaudí’s last residence. Decidedly modern with the inimitable Gaudí flair, this striking industrial-era building is worthy of its UNESCO World Heritage Site status.
Visitors can climb through the building to the rooftop for exceptional city views. The curved, undulating terrace allows more sunlight to filter through to the central courtyards below.
From Gaudí’s last residence to his first: Casa Vicens is a beautiful building where visitors can enjoy an intimate experience of his singular style. Wander the house at your leisure, taking in the exquisite décor and architectural details, or explore his legacy in depth on one of the daily expert-led guided tours.
Special workshops run here throughout the year, such as sensory learning, ceramic crafts and introductory design sessions suitable for children.
Considered by some to be his masterpiece, Casa Batlló sits proudly in the centre of the city. Gaudí redesigned this house in 1904, updating it with an exterior that seems to be bursting outward and interiors nothing short of exquisite. Typical of his style, there are few straight lines.
Mosaics adorn the building inside and out, crowned by a colourful arched roof that’s likened to the scales of a sleeping dragon.
Last but certainly not least is Park Güell, a carefully crafted space with gardens and architectural elements that operates as a public park. The space provides a spectacular venue for performances, outdoor relaxation and day-to-day leisure activities.
Gaudí’s imprint is clear in the pillared viewpoints and rippling stone walls adorned with multi-coloured mosaics which somehow blend in seamlessly with the bright flowers and lush foliage.
