Gaudi

Yesterday was all about Gaudi. We started at Sagrada Familia.

There are no superlatives to describe this cathedral. Everywhere you turn, there is something else to marvel at. And this is a building that won’t be completed for another 9 years. The future central tower will dominate Barcelona from every vantage point.

Whilst the exterior is striking, challenging and very recognisably Gaudi, the internal ‘forest of trees’ that form the internal columns are gravity defying and certainly one of the most beautiful churches we have ever seen. The columns are made from different types of stone and varying diameters depending on the load they will eventually have to bear. The stained glass is magnificent. Whoever stole my camera will be able to view all this, but I have nothing to put in this blog – it is worth looking up.

We also traveled to the top of the Passion Towers. And walked down one of the longest spiral staircases in the world. Sally’s quest to climb every tower in the World continues with another one ticked off.

So, on to Casa Batllo, a home designed by Gaudi for the Batllo family – and what a house. Everywhere you look, you can see the intimate detail that Gaudi specified from the massive windows overlooking Passeig de Gracia, to the curved ceilings thoughout, to the smallest section of mosaics and many other quirky and innovative features. The timber work is breathtaking.

Then, finally, Park Guell – Gaudi’s experiment in group housing. We rode the Metro to save our legs, but still faced thousands of steps – well at least hundreds. The climb was worth it. The parkland and views alone are worth the visit; but  walking around the unique subdivision is a very different experience. Amazing mosaics everywhere, and a lot of tourists. The many guards need to very patient.

After a big day enjoying Gaudi and battling pickpockets, we tried Lokal, a small cafe near our hotel for dinner. It turned out to be a great choice with two entrepeneurial brothers having recently opened for business. We enjoyed the food and wine and also the complimentary grappa, homemade by their grandfather.

Next up – San Sebastian.