Day 54 : Gaudi

Antoni Gaudi is a very important figure in Barcelona, as he helped to characterise Barcelona with some key buildings, one of which is the Sagrada Familia.

There was a long queue when I went to visit it today and spent over 3 hours alone at this building! 

Interesting to note is that the foundation stone of this building was laid in 1882, and is still a work in progress based on the models Gaudi left behind.  At the point of my visit, there was still about 40% left to completion, and it is targeted to be only completed in 2020!

I am not a religious person and have stopped visiting most of the churches after seeing so many in Spain.  But visiting this Basilica is a must and I was definitely very impressed at the work of Gaudi and his vision and designs after the visit.  It has a gothic but yet nature-embracing feel to it. 

Every part of the building, from the location, sculptures, wordings, lighting and glass-windows etc. has a meaning behind it and all dedicated to the life of Jesus Christ.  Pictures alone does not do it justice, and needs to be visited in person.  It is best to visit it accompanied by the Audio Guide as it provides a very good explanatory about every single part of the building and its history. 

I would love to really see the final completed building once it is all up, and I can only think that it would be extremely impressive and Gaudi should be really proud!

Other Gaudi Architecture in Barcelona

There are a few other Gaudi buildings in the city such as Casa Batllo, which I had only viewed from the outside as I felt that the cost of Euro 18.00 for the entry ticket was a little over priced.

I later heard that it was actually quite nice inside and is worth a visit.  I may do just that when I go back to Barcelona and also visit the rest of Gaudi’s “art-pieces”.