Discovering Barcelona: A Journey Through Gaudí's Masterpieces

La Sagrada Familia Basilica - Personal Escape Travel

As many of you are aware, I had the privilege of attending an exclusive luxury conference a few months ago in Barcelona, Spain. This event gathers leading luxury agents from the United States and Canada alongside suppliers from around the globe. At the conference, we participate in one-on-one meetings and engage in various bonding activities. Additionally, we get the chance to visit local attractions and perform hotel inspections.

Discover Must-See Attractions in Barcelona

Three experiences I deeply enjoyed while in Barcelona that are not to be missed are La Pedrera - Casa Milà, Park Güell, and La Sagrada Família.

La Pedrera - Casa Milà

La Pedrera-Casa Milà is a private residence designed by Antoni Gaudí. It was built between 1906 and 1912 on the Passeig de Gràcia, one of the most prestigious avenues in Barcelona. Gaudí was commissioned to create one of the most stunning residences in the world. His inspiration came largely from nature. Casa Milà is designed in the shape of a spiral seashell.

Many staircases feature awnings made of metal and glass. The center is open to allow in air and light. Gaudí ensured that no two ceilings, door frames, or window frames were the same; each is unique. The residence, owned by the richest family in Spain at the time, was the first to be electrified. The family was so wealthy that the daughter's dollhouse had an electrified chandelier in each of its more than a dozen rooms, at a time when most residents in Barcelona did not have electricity.

Gaudí created a special door from metal and glass that swings open, allowing the family's car to drive down into the underground parking lot beneath the home. He disliked the unsightly look of chimes, so he cleverly hid them in giant sculptures on the roof. Be sure to explore the roof; it involves many challenging small steps, but the 360-degree views of Barcelona are worth the climb.

The project exceeded the initial budget significantly. To pay Gaudí and manage expenses, the Pedrera/Milà family rented out the upper floors while residing on the first floor. I had the pleasure of doing a Gaudí-inspired art class, where I chose to make a mosaic-topped box. It will always hold great memories of my afternoon at Casa Milà.

Park Güell

Park Güell is another renowned creation by Antoni Gaudí. This park system features gardens and architectural structures. Constructed between 1900 and 1914, the original residential project faced challenges such as financial issues and changes in the real estate market. These challenges prevented it from being completed as intended. The park remained privately owned and was designed as a retreat for affluent families to escape to the lush countryside, delaying its public opening until 1926. Some of the original homes are open for tours.

Gaudí's profound admiration for nature is evident in the park's mosaic serpentine benches and El Drac. Park Güell provides some of the finest views of Barcelona and the Mediterranean Sea. It is a delightful spot to visit, just minutes from the city's center, and is cherished by both tourists and locals alike.

La Sagrada Familia

The Basilica of La Sagrada Familia is a living masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí. It remains unfinished since construction began in 1882, giving the impression of walking through art. This basilica is an expansive structure featuring numerous towers, sides, and entryways. Each is a remarkable sculpture in its own right, yet together they form a breathtaking creation.

The massive metal doors at one entrance are handcrafted and honor Gaudí's father, who taught him welding as a child. I paused at the doors, counting all the tiny hidden creatures woven into the vine design. The stone framework surrounding the doors features sculptures of animals and nature. As you look upward, you'll notice large sculpted fruit baskets that are part of the columns.

Once inside, it's impossible not to be moved by the enormous gold crucifix hanging from the ceiling, surrounded by floating candles. As you reach the center of the Basilica, you're unsure where to direct your gaze first. You're enveloped by the colored light streaming through the variously hued stained glass walls.

If you walk just to the left of the main altar, you will be able to see the crypts. Mirrors are placed in different parts of the Basilica to prevent neck strain while admiring the ceiling. The ceiling features stained glass windows of various shapes, reflecting an array of colors. It's akin to being inside a kaleidoscope, yet it's deeply spiritual and moving, even for those who aren't religious. Gaudí's final masterpiece is truly impressive.

If you exit from the entrance on the opposite side of the Basilica, you'll notice that the sculptures there are in a completely different style compared to those at the front. These sculptures portray various biblical scenes but are crafted in a very modern style. They feature smooth, clean lines and much less intricate detail, yet they are just as beautiful as the ones at the front of the Basilica.

From this point, you can access a small museum featuring drawings and models of Gaudí's creations. He was not just an artist but also an architect and a talented engineer. All three experiences are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offer something for everyone.

Conclusion

These are three discoveries you shouldn't miss when visiting Barcelona. I intend to revisit them on my next trip. Barcelona and Spain, in general, have so much to delight in. I can't wait to go back.

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