Gaudi

Having not studied architecture, I am not quite up on architects of the current time.  So Gaudi really did not mean much to me . . . but now I know and understand his work.  Diana brought us to the Sagrada Familia first, and I must say, she was a great guide.  We also used the audio tapes, which were indispensable.  I appreciated that we began outside and looked at all of the forms created from nature, and then we went inside.  Although I prefer the old cathedrals, this one was pretty stunning.  My favorite part of it is the symbolism behind the altar where the spirit of Christ rises to God.  God is portrayed as the gold triangle, and in person, it is absolutely lovely.

The yellow triangle is at the top.

The columns look like trees and branches.

The columns in the church take the form of a tree at the top, and in one of the museums, the math behind it explains why it works.  It is all too complicated for me, but the forest motif within the cathedral spreads throughout.  It also spreads outside where animals, fruits, vegetables, and plants integrate every part of the exterior.  The Glory Entrance is not yet complete, nor are several of the columns, so work is continuing.  It will supposedly be complete in 2026 - a huge undertaking, but marvelous if it happens!

Then Di took us to the Parc Guell, which is a park that was designed for a wealthy Barcelonan.  The distinctive design makes the park unmistakeable, and again, Gaudi uses many elements of nature throughout the park.  His grotto certainly is exactly that, and his well-known lizard is even more beautiful in person.  The park is a lovely way to spend the day, especially on a gorgeous March afternoon!

On Thursday, we rambled up the Camino de las Ramblas to see two other Gaudi homes - Casa Perdrera and Casa Batallo.

Casa Batallo

Casa Perdrera

Gaudi-inspired street lamps line the walk, and the two homes are quite evident.  Casa Batallo is a lively, colorful place with a marine theme of blues and greens (though I thought it was more like a forest).  With its juniper-cone topknots and many mosaics, a person could not miss the home.  The Casa Perdrera was not quite as obvious.  A solid white exterior with only ironwork makes it a little less distinguishable . . . until one looks at the roof and sees the same helmet-like and juniper-like topknots.  I have never seen anything else like them . . .

Gaudi has made quite a mark on Barcelona - all for the betterment of those who live there.