Modernista Architecture

Modernista design combines Classical and Gothic elements with modern symbols form the Catalan culture and mythology and format the nature such as trees, flowers, animals, etc. In fact, Modernista design is full of life and imagination. Another characteristics is the use of curve and colorful lines. Colors were usually bright. For Modernista architects symbolism and ornamentation were indispensable but they avoided symmetrical elements.

The Characterisitcs of the Style of Antoni Gaudí

The motifs that appeared already in his first works and that remained characteristics of his style until his death were organic forms, such as shells and reptiles, arches, and forms that made the illusion of water flow. These were combined with different neo-Gothic elements such as frightening animal statues, mosaics of colorful porcelain fragments decorating the facades of many buildings designed by him. Gaudí always used original materials like stained glass, ceramic tiles and iron.

Gaudí was careful to explore and develop his architectural style continuously, he prepared a table of materials suitable for work and he included also their concentration. He created miniature models of the statues he had built and carried out many experiments where he tested if the arches that he designed are durable enough.

The Relationship Between Gaudí and the Residents of Barcleona

Although today it seems that Gaudí and Barcelona are equal, at the beginning of Gaudi’s career his innovative style was not welcomed with open arms by the residents of the city. For example, Casa Milà, which was his first major work, was named initially by them “La Pedrera” which can be considered to be a nickname, it means “the quarry”. The fact that he was supported by the rich industrialist Eusebi Güell i Bacigalupi did not contribute to his popularity.

Slowly, Gaudi’s works became more and more popular and he started to receive appreciation for his work. He was respected also for being a passionate Catalan artist who spoke only Catalan. Due to these, a strong relationship was formed between the architect and the residents of Barcelona.

His final works were very popular between the inhabitants of the city, Park Güell was appreciated for his design and architectural characteristics. Nevertheless, Eusebi Güell, who was the financial sponsor of the project, was not very popular in the city. La Sagrada Familia was his last work and he did not finished it until his death. Actually, the church is still being built, according to the plans it will be finished in 2026, which will be the 100th anniversary of Gaudi’s death. Today Gaudí is one of the main icons of the city.

Death of Gaudí

Like other great artists, Gaudí died during working on his masterpiece. He was hit by an electric train near the Sagrada Familia in 1926. According to a legend, the accident took place because Gaudí was looking at the church and at its towers and not at the train tracks. Although it is a well known legend, there is no evidence that proves this story.

Tips and Recommendations

• If you want to admire the works of Gaudi you do not need to go inside of the buildings constructed by him. You can take a free tour in Barcelona and you will see the most interesting pieces of Gaudi’s portfolio. Of course if you are more interested in this topic you can enter some of the buildings or if you want you can buy a ticket that is valid for all of them. These kinds of tickets can be purchased at Sagrada Familia.
• It is highly recommended to join a guided tour in Barcelona about Gaudi and his works (for additional information – Attractions and Tours near Eixample and Attractions and Tours in Barcelona).
• The works of Gaudi are full of colors and imagination. Therefore they are recommended even for little children (for additional information – Kids and Families in Barcelona).
• Besides the constructions of Gaudi you can find many attraction in Barcelona that are connected to the great architect, for example in Park Güell there is a small museum dedicated to him. Near this park you can visit Gaudí Experiència (Gauid Experience) where you can enjoy the architect’s works in 4D. This attraction is relatively new, it was opened just in 2012 and it is very popular with families. Additionally, in La Pedrera – Casa Milà you can participate in Gaudi’s Pedrera: The Origins which is an interesting night show. It is another popular attraction with families, so we suggest that if you have time and money do not miss it (for additional information – Visit Casa Milà at night).

Map