City of Architecture: Barcelona, Spain

by Hannah Jang 

Barcelona, the second largest city in Spain, has become one of the most-visited cities for its remarkable tourism options. Whether it is day or night, the city is alive, and it is hard to run out of things to do or see in Barcelona. Many visit the city having heard of the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, but even those who had never heard will remain in awe of his inspirational works.

 Sagrada Familia

 
















La Sagrada Familia is the expiatory church that represents the city of Barcelona. Gaudí started this work in 1883 and he put much devotion into it until his death in 1926. At this time, the construction of the church was not completed—in fact, even today various contemporary architects continue its construction, following Gaudí’s original inspiration. Christian symbolism is more than evident in the architecture of this church, and every intricate detail forces people to take snapshots to capture that beauty. Many visitors come to La Sagrada Familia to gaze upon the luminous interior of the church, and others simply enjoy just walking by to adore the elaborate exterior. 

 
It is hard to experience the entirety of Gaudí’s inspirations without visiting the interior, and even taking the elevator up the tower. At the top, you bring yourself that much close to the art that embraces Gaudí’s masterpiece. Moreover, you can get a 360 degree view of the city below from the various towers of the church. Barcelona is a city that is embraced by the sea on one side and by mountains on the other, and this view from La Sagrada Familia is one that captures that splendor.

            Parc Güell

  Have you heard of the stunning mosaic art by Gaudí? Well, Parc Güell is where you will find it! Initially, the place was envisioned to be a housing site by Count Eusebi Güell, but as a result of a failed vision, it became a park opened to the public. Even with the architecture of the park, Gaudí did not fail to include his Christian influences. The whole of Parc Güell is a situated on a hill, and Gaudí placed the inspiring stone cross at the very top, another location where you could see the entire city of Barcelona below. Whether you are sitting or standing at the foot of the cross, you will get a most marvelous view of La Sagrada Familia surrounded by the metropolitan influences of the city.

Parc Güell is known for its tiled mosaics throughout the park. Upon entering the park at its main entrance, you will be surrounded by the vibrancy of the mosaic tiles. This area is always crowded with tourists wanting to take photos with the mosaic dragon and of the mosaic houses as well. You will find yourself gazing up at the unique tiles that are located even on the ceiling, or sitting on those mosaic tiles that create the benches located just above that ceiling. It is impossible to not be fascinated by Gaudí’s incredible talent.