Barcelona is blessed with an astonishing nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Unsurprisingly, seven of them were conceived by the legendary Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi. In a city with such rich culinary, artistic and sporting pedigree, you probably won’t have too much time for architecture. But, whatever you do, make sure you don’t miss these, the best of Barcelona’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Sagrada Familia
The Basílica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família is arguably Antoni Gaudi’s most renowned work. Construction began on the Roman Catholic church in 1883, and famously continues today. Astonishing for its design both within and without, the Sagrada Família is a Barcelona must do.
Palau Güell
Catalan Industrial tycoon Eusebi Güell set Gaudi a challenging brief for his city mansion: wow high society guests. Gaudi confidently took up the gauntlet throughout, from the welcome provided by the building’s forged iron gates, to the magnificence of its main lantern-lit party room.
Casa Mila (La Pedrera)
Striking for its undulating stonework, Gaudi’s design was highly controversial of its time. Officially completed in 1912, Casa Mila is considered architecturally innovative for its self-supporting façade comprised of steel structure and curtain walls.
Casa Viçens
Built for industrialist Manuel Viçens, this brightly coloured family residence is considered Gaudi’s first important work. Remaining in private ownership, access inside is barred to the public. Visitors must content themselves with an insight into Gaudi’s early influences, notably the Moorish styles deployed on the building’s rooftop.
The Palau de la Musica Catalana
Designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, this 1908 concert hall was produced for a choral society that was once a leading force in the Catalan cultural movement. Each year, more than half a million people attend musical performances in its stunningly ornate hall.
Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
(Images: Stephen Downes, iJuliAn, s3k, fpeault, trioptikmal)
