Follow the Gaudi Trail to Barcelona

Barcelona is considered to be one of the mostBatllo House was originally constructed as a terraced
beautiful cities in the world. This is perhaps nothouse similar to those surrounding it; however, Gaudi
surprising considering it is also the birthplace oftransformed it into the warped and eccentric facade
famous Catalan architect, Antonio Gaudi. Thethat you see today, further displaying his creative
Modernist style work of Gaudi can be experienced allarchitectural skills. Mila House was built on the request
over the city in its buildings and parks. Indeed, evenof the Mila family who sought a more extravagant
the most cultured of individuals would perhaps agreeexample of Batllo House to live in. In response, Gaudi
that this is the perfect way to experience thisbuilt two blocks of flats for his client, united by the
popular Spanish metropolis.same rippling facade. Much to the delight of tourists
The most visited piece of Gaudi's sights in Barcelonaand genuinely interested fans of his work, you can
is the Sagrada Familia, or the Expiatory Temple ofvisit both of these fine examples of Gaudi's
the Holy Family, as it is also known. The Sagradaarchitectural prowess throughout the year.
Familia is a massive church built in a neo-gothic style,Park Guell is another must-see spectacle - a famous
where Gaudi devoted over 15 years of his life togarden complex designed by Gaudi. For those
building this temple of faith. Interestingly, it is stillinterested, trams and buses are widely available close
under construction despite work beginning in 1882;by where you can be conveniently transported to
however, it is scheduled for completion in 2026. Thisthis large park to fully explore its wonders. Park Guell
is perhaps the best place to start your Gaudi tour, aslargely consists of a ramshackle collection of paths,
you can sample the eccentricities of Gaudi's style andsculptures, aqueducts and reservoirs; moreover the
vision in its full splendour.warped, chequer-board style entrance staircase is a
If you are walking onto Passeig de Gracia, one ofmust see, as is the view from the top of the park
Barcelona's main streets, then this should give you aover Barcelona.
further taste of Gaudi's influence on the city. ThisThere are a multitude of other Gaudi sights to take
wide boulevard is beautifully lined with trees andin as you walk around this wonderful city and from
typical Spanish buildings, with but two exceptions;doing so you will soon realise why holidays in
Battlo House and Mila House. These two buildings areBarcelona are so popular for tourists and architectural
only a few blocks apart on this grand avenue andfans alike.
easily stand out due to their engrossing features.