It's crazy to think that there was a time when Barcelona despised his greatest works of architecture.
The city first came into its own at the Barcelona World's Fair in 1888, when its greatest emerging architects, Gaudi, Casanovas and Montaner, presented Catalan modernism to the world.
Today, it's my turn to tell you about Barcelona's architecture and where to find the city's most beautiful monuments.
Architecture in Barcelona: article summary
Architecture in Barcelona: La Sagrada Familia
Visit the Sagrada FamiliaIt's like watching history unfold before your eyes. One of the most beautiful pieces of architecture you'll ever see. This unfinished Roman Catholic church by Catalan architect Antonio Gaudi has been under construction since 1882.
Characterized by overly ornate detailing, when completed in 2032 the church will feature over 18 spires and 3 large facades. The 18 spires represent the 12 apostles, the four evangelists, the Virgin Mary and Jesus Christ. To date, 10 of the spires have been completed. Finally, the church will be the world's highest once completed.
You can visit this building :
- In winter from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- in summer from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Entrance fees are as follows:
- 33.00 per person with an all-inclusive ticket!
Casa Batllo
Widely considered one of Antoni Gaudi's masterpieces, the Casa Batlló is an incredible example of Catalan modernism, with its unique architecture, oval windows and mosaic facade. A curved roof with a turret is generally considered to be inspired by Saint George's spear, thrust into a dragon's back.
Built in 1904, this residence still welcomes tourists curious about this unique architectural work.
You can visit the site :
- Every day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Entrance fees are :
- 35 € per person
Architecture in Barcelona: the Palais de la Musique
A beautiful theater filled with flowing curves and rich floral and organic details, the Palau de la Música was designed by Spanish architect LluÃs Domènech i Montaner. At the request of the theater's patrons, Montaner was commissioned to direct local craftsmen to build several magnificent ornamental and sculptural pieces. The theater played an important role in the Catalan cultural movement known as the Renaixença (Catalan Renaissance).
The venue opens :
- Every day 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
You must count on 8 euros per person to visit Barcelona's Palace of Music.
Casa Mila (La Pedrera)
Visit Casa Milà was the last private residence designed by Antoni Gaudi. The building is famous for its undulating stone façade and rooftop terrace overlooking the old town. The building's structure was actually quite progressive for its time.
The stone facade is self-supporting, allowing for an open floor plan. Nicknamed "La PedreraHowever, the nickname was not intended as a compliment, and the owners who first commissioned Gaudi to create the work were much mocked. Over time, it has become one of the city's most cult places.
If you wish to visit the site, you will have to go there:
- Between 9 a.m. and 8:30 p.m. every day
The cost of the visit is :
- 25.00 per person
Architecture in Barcelona: Parc Güell
The brainchild of entrepreneur Eusebio Güell and Antoni Gaudi, the Parc Güell is a UNESCO World Heritage Site designed during Gaudi's naturalist phase, when he was inspired by nature and organic forms. The park was conceived as a series of technologically advanced houses integrated into a garden. Many of its iconic structures celebrate this feeling.
The park opens to the public :
- Every day 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
You'll need :
- 7.50 per person to get there
Arc de Triomphe and Parc de la Ciutadella
For several decades, the Parc de la Ciutadella was Barcelona's only public park. It was originally the site of a large fortress or citadel, demolished by the city because of its past role in the war with Spain. The park was demolished in 1888, the Arc de Triomf was built as a new entrance to the park and features sculptures in red brick and stone frieze.
The park is open to the public:
- From 10 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. daily
Architecture in Barcelona: Santa Maria del Mar
Visit Santa Maria del Mar is a Gothic cathedral built between 1329 and 1383. The church has several striking features, including a decorative rose window and slender columns that allow natural light to flood the interior. A unique monument not to be missed when you visit Barcelona.
The venue opens :
- From Monday to Saturday, 1 to 5 p.m.
- Visit Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m.
Agbar Tower
Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the 144 m-high tower is inspired by a geyser rising into the air. The building is a major example of high-tech architecture, with 4,500 LEDs illuminating the building, as well as temperature sensors that open and close its blinds to moderate solar exposure.
If you would like to find out more about the Agbar Tower, I suggest you visit read the article I wrote about him.
If you're an architecture enthusiast, you're already familiar with the main places to visit in Barcelona. During your visit, don't hesitate to look up and discover all the wonders of the city's facades.
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