Barcelona Gaudí: Barcelona Architecture
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On this page you’ll find an introduction to Barcelona Gaudí Architecture and find out why his work is so important in Barcelona.
| Barcelona Gaudí architecture the giant Sagrada Família basilica |
Gaudí’s work is admired by architects around the World as being one of the most unique and distinctive architectural styles.
His work has greatly influenced the face of Barcelona architecture and you will see stunning examples of Gaudí’s work all around the city centre.
| Iron gate entrance to Gaudí’s Palau Güell |
Antoni Gaudí was born in Reus in 1852 and received his Architectural degree in 1878.
From the early beginnings his designs were radically different from those of his contemporaries. Gaudí was not so much influenced by other architect’s ideas but more by forms of nature.
You will see that most of Gaudí’s constructions have an organic look to them. This basic concept of using nature as the primary influences for his creativity is reflected in the use of the natural curved construction stones, twisted iron sculptures, and organic-like shapes – all of which are characteristic traits of Gaudí’s architecture.
If you look at the Façade of Casa Batlló for instance you will see that the balconies look like skulls and the supports on the windows look like bones. The multicoloured tiles that are used to decorate the walls of Casa Batlló were taken from the colours of natural corals.
Gaudí adorned many of his buildings with coloured tiles arranged in mosaic patterns. This adds another important dimension to his buildings which is so often overlooked by architects – the use of colour. The combination of original design, interesting shaped stonework, and vibrant colours in Gaudí’s work give the viewer a truly breathtaking visual experience.
| Gaudí dragon fountain at Park Güell. |
| Park Guell: Colonnades designed by Gaudí |
To give you an outline of Gaudí’s style we have prepared separate pages reviewing a selection of Gaudí’s work.
Sagrada Família: Barcelona Gaudí Architecture
Sagrada Familia is a giant Basilica, probably Gaudí’s greatest works, and is the No.1 most visited attraction in Barcelona.
Sagrada Familia detailed information page
| Interior of Sagrada Familia Basilica |
Luggage Storage
Click to see luggage/bag storage facility near Sagrada Familia
Park Güell
Park Güell is a magical park with amazing sculptures and tile work designed by Gaudí. You will also find Gaudí’s old home in Park Güell which is now open to the public as a small museum.
Park Güell detailed information page
La Pedrera (Casa Mila)
La Pedrera (1905), also known as Casa Mila, is another of Gaudi’s masterpieces and can be found at No 92 Passeig de Gràcia at the junction with Carrer Provenca.
La Pedrera is open to the public to visit their rooms along with the roof top area. To find out more visit our detailed pages on La Pedrera below.
La Pedrera detailed information page
La Pedrera photo gallery
COVID-19 Update: La Pedrera management have setup special procedures during these times of the coronavirus to ensure the safety of all tourists visiting. You can read their detailed safety procedures by following the link below.
Safety and hygiene protocols setup by La Pedrera to ensure visitor safety.
| La Pedrera on Passeig de Gracia |
Luggage Storage
Click to see luggage/bag storage facility near Casa Mila / La Pedrera
Casa Batlló
One of the most interesting and unusual houses on Passeig de Gracia in Barcelona.
Casa Batlló detailed information page.
Casa Batlló famous “skull and bones” balconies. The façade colours were inspired by natural corals. |
If you would like to see more photos of Barcelona Gaudí’s work we suggest you visit our Barcelona Photo Guide Map page. On this page we have a map showing the locations of important landmarks in Barcelona and linked them to an extensive photo guide to the city. The landmarks you need to looks out for are the three we have listed above along with La Pedrera.
Luggage Storage
Click to see luggage/bag storage facility near Casa Batllo
Guided Tour of Güell Park and Gaudí’s Sagrada Família
If you would like to learn more about Gaudí’s Park Güell and Sagrada Família then consider going on the guided Gaudí tour. The tour includes entrance fees, bus transportation and tour guide.
6 Must See Buildings By Gaudi In Barcelona – Hand Luggage Only
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No visit will be complete without seeing some of the stunning works of Antonio Gaudi in Barcelona.
Celebrated across the globe, Gaudi’s style has heavily influenced Barcelona, but also its people and architectural design throughout Spain and the rest of the world. And you can see a handful of his buildings in Barcelona itself! If you’ve been following our Instagram, you will have seen us on our search for some of the famous buildings of Gaudi in Barcelona?
Barcelona is an incredible city, with so many things to do that you’ll honestly be spoilt for choice. Just make sure to take some time to visit the very special buildings of Gaudi in Barcelona.
That’s why I wanted to show you some of the very best buildings of Gaudi in Barcelona that you should definitely visit. Some will take a good few hours to visit, others, a fleeting moment, whatever the case… just don’t miss them!
Take a look at some of my very favourite buildings of Gaudi in Barcelona, below. ❤️
1.) Casa Batlló
Perched on Paseo de Gracia, Casa Batlló is a short 10-minute walk from Casa Mila.
Its eye-catching design and roof are influenced by the skin of a dragon while the nature-inspired shapes of Casa Batlló make this building one of my favourites to see while visiting the city.
Originally, the building was due to be demolished, then Gaudi took creative control and totally transformed the building into the modernist dream it is today. It’s one of the most iconic buildings by Gaudi in Barcelona and also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
You can buy your tickets at the door, or by booking online before your visit at the official Casa Batlló website.
Book tickets to Casa Batlló, here
2.) Sagrada Familia
Although incomplete, Sagrada Familia is one of Gaudi’s lifelong dreams that is still being constructed. Recently given a completion date of 2026 – his lifelong project will finally be completed over 100 years after its conception and is one of the most iconic buildings of Gaudi in Barcelona.
Although Gaudi knew that he would never see Sagrada Familia completed in his lifetime, his vision has been maintained to create one of the world’s most celebrated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Oh, and don’t forget to visit the crypt while at the Sagrada Familia. It’s one of the little spots that people often miss.
Just try to buy your tickets online before you visit. This will help you skip many of the long queues – especially on a hot summer day. 🤗
For a great hotel nearby, pop into the Barcelona EDITION which has an amazing rooftop area too.
Read more: the coolest place to stay in Barcelona
3.) Park Guell
Park Guell is one of Barcelona’s most famous public parks, situated on the edge of Carmel Hill, its beautiful charm and delightful colourful buildings are a must-see on a sunny Barcelona afternoon.
Make sure to head across in the mid-afternoon and watch the sun bathe the park in a beautiful glow.
Oh, and whilst you’re here, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for el drac too! It’s the mosaic salamander near the steps.
Read more: How to experience La Merce festival in Barcelona
4.
) Casa Mila
Casa Milà was constructed in the early 20th century by Gaudi. Commissioned by Pere Milà i Camps and his wife Roser Segimon i Artells, this building was actually disliked by most locals during its construction. Thankfully the city, its people and visitors alike have come to love this most impressive building.
Don’t forget to visit the roof terrace around sunset where you can watch the glow of the sky and the buzz of the city.
Read more: Free things to do in Barcelona
5.) Sagrada Família Schools
Based within the grounds of Sagrada Família, this impressive and shapely building is a great place to explore the history of construction around Gaudi’s projects.
Unlike some early 20th century architects, Gaudi was caring and passionate about the welfare of his workers, ensuring his staff, their families and children all benefited from his projects, with Sagrada Família Schools being one of his most impressive.
Read more: Best restaurants to eat at in Barcelona
6.) Gaudi’s Home
Technically not built by Gaudi, his home within Park Güell is a perfect place witness the intimate setting and home where Gaudi lived in the early part of the twentieth century.
Now a museum costing around €5-10, it showcases some of Gaudi’s most influential pieces, his bedroom, study and designs that he cared so much about. It’s a great spot to learn about the history of Gaudi in Barcelona and his vision.
Read more: Your essential guide to free things to see in Barcelona
15 Best Free Things To Do In Barcelona
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14 masterpieces of Gaudí in Barcelona
The unusual architecture of Antonio Gaudí is the jewel of Barcelona. In the capital of Catalonia, 14 buildings of the master of modernism have been preserved: Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, houses, small architectural forms. All the masterpieces of Gaudí in Barcelona with a map and description. Addresses, opening hours, tickets. What to see in Barcelona for free and how to skip the lines.
Park Guell Barcelona
Contents
- Sagrada Familia
- Parish School
- Palace Güell
- Lanterns
- Casa Batlló
- House Mila
- House Vicens
- Calvet House
- Figueres House
- Park Güell
- Gaudí House Museum
- Stable pavilions
- Theresian School
- Miralles Gate
Before you go to see Gaudí’s creations, plan your time and calculate your budget.
The sights of Barcelona are among the most popular and expensive in Europe. You can spend 2 hours waiting in line at the Sagrada Familia, and a ticket to Casa Batlló costs €35.
Tripster tour
What to do? Choose only the most interesting places with paid entrance and buy tickets online, they often have discounts. In many cases, you can limit yourself to an external examination or visit a free part.
Barcelona Transport and Discount Cards
- Barcelona Card – free admission to 25 Barcelona museums, public transport, city map, discounts in shops, valid for 72, 96 or 120 hours.
- Barcelona Express Card – transport and discounts for 2 days.
- Hola BCN! – Unlimited trips around Barcelona and the province by public transport, including trains to the airport.
Masterpieces of Gaudi on the map of Barcelona
Masterpieces of Gaudi on the map of Barcelona
Sagrada Familia
Sagrada Familia
Sagrada Familia is a synthesis of the theory and practice of Gaudi architecture, the symbol of Barcelona.
Construction has been going on since 1883, the surviving layouts and drawings allow Gaudí to continue his work using a computer. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List (2005). In 2010, the Sagrada Familia was consecrated by the Pope and proclaimed a basilica.
- Address: Carrer de Mallorca 401
- opening hours:
- October to March Mon-Sun 9:00-18:00
- from April to September Mon-Sun 9:00-20:00
- Online ticket with audio guide entitles you to the Sagrada Familia without a queue
- Tower Climb Ticket
Tripster Tour
Sagrada Familia Parish School
A simple brick and tile parish school with a wave-shaped roof. Antonio Gaudí lived in one of the rooms a year before his death. Now there is a museum dedicated to the construction of the church. Ticket entry to the Sagrada Familia.
Palau Guell
Palau Guell
Palau Guell was built for Gaudí’s patron Eusebi Güell.
The palace combines medieval opulence with the architect’s unique style. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List (1984).
- Address: Carrer Nou de la Rambla 3-5
- opening hours:
- from April to October Mon-Sun 10:00-20:00
- from November to March Mon-Sun 10:00-17:30
- 25% discount with Barcelona Card
Related: To Montserrat from Barcelona
Lanterns on the Royal Square
Lanterns on the Royal Square
The lanterns are made on a stone support with chrome-plated cast-iron columns topped with a helmet of Mercury with wings and a rod.
- address: Plaça Reial
- Free
Barcelona’s oldest flamenco show takes place in one of the historic buildings in Plaza Reial. Watch a performance featuring the stars of Spanish flamenco, a cultural tradition protected by UNESCO. buy ticket
Related: Where to stay in Barcelona • Top 5 neighborhoods in the center
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló has almost no straight lines.
The facade of the building depicts the shining scales of a monster with the bones and skulls of its victims.
- Address: Passeig de Gracia 43
- opening hours: Mon-Sun 9:00-21:00
- Casa Batlló with audio guide
- €3 discount with Barcelona Card
House of Mila (Casa Milà, La Pedrera)
House of Mila is the last secular work of Gaudi, an example of Catalan modernism. The panoramic rooftop terrace is decorated with sculptures of mythological creatures that perform the practical function of ventilation.
- Address: Carrer de Provenca 261
- opening hours:
- from 3 March to 1 November Mon-Sun 9:00-20:30
- from 2 November Mon-Sun 9:00-18:30
- House Mila with audio guide
- Night tour with rooftop audiovisual show and a glass of champagne
- 20% discount with Barcelona Card
Casa Vicens
Casa Vicens
Casa Vicens is built in Mudéjar style with ceramic finishes and a parabolic arch.
Gaudí’s first major order from manufacturer Manuel Vicens. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List (2005). For a long time it was privately owned, opened to the public in November 2017. You can walk around the entire complex and the adjacent garden.
- Address: Carrer de les Carolines 24
- opening hours: Mon-Sun 10:00-18:00
- House of Vicens with audio guide
- 25% discount with Barcelona Card
Tripster Tour
Calvet House (Casa Calvet)
Calvet House
Calvet House, one of Gaudí’s early creations, was built for the textile manufacturer Pere Màrtir Calvet. In 1900, the city council of Barcelona awarded it the prize for the best building of the year. Residential building, on the ground floor there is a restaurant.
- Address: Carrer de Casp 48
Casa Figueras and Torre Bellesguard
Figueres and Bellesguard
The neo-Gothic house of Figueras with its tower stands at the foot of the Tibidabo hill.
Built on the site of the medieval castle of King Martin Human, reminiscent of his past. The Bellesguard tower offers panoramic views of Barcelona.
- Address: Carrer de Bellesguard 16
- opening hours: Tue-Sun 10:00-15:00
- Online ticket Torre Bellesguard
Park Güell
Gaudi Mosaic in Park Güell. Photo by Quim Muns Pixabay
Park Güell, as a unique model of a residential area, embodies the perfect harmony of nature and architecture. Included in the UNESCO World Heritage List (1984). Entrance to the Park Güell is free, the monumental area of the park is paid.
- Address: Carrer d’Olot 5
- opening hours:
- January-February Mon-Sun 8:30-18:30
- March 1-25 Mon-Sun 8:30-19:00
- May 1-August 27 Mon-Sun 8:00-21:30
- August 28-October 28 Mon-Sun 8:00-20:30
- October 29-December 31 Mon-Sun 8:30-18:30
- An online ticket to Park Güell is cheaper than buying at the box office and skipping the line!
- Park Guell + Sagrada Familia
Gaudí House Museum
Gaudí House Museum in Barcelona
Gaudí House is located in the Park Güell in a former Gaudí mansion.
The museum tells about the life and work of the great architect in the period 1906-1925 The exhibition presents furniture and interior items.
- Address: Carretera del Carmel 23A
- opening hours:
- October to March: Mon-Sun 10:00-18:00
- from April to September: Mon-Sun 9:00-20:00
Related: Barcelona’s 12 Viewpoints
Stables Pavilions of the Güell Estate (Pavellons de la Finca Güell)
Dragon Gate
Another work by Gaudí commissioned by Eusebi Güell. Forged gates in the shape of a dragon close the entrance to the utopian park of the Hesperides.
- Address: Avinguda de Pedralbes 7
- opening hours: Mon-Sun 10:00-16:00
- Free
Tripster Tour
The Teresian School (Col·legi de les Teresianes)
The religious symbolism of the building is complemented by towers crowned with a four-pointed cross.
The Theresian School is a closed educational institution where the children of influential parents study.
- Address: Carrer de Ganduxer 85-105
Porta Miralles
Gate of the Miralles Estate
Gaudí took on this small commission for his friend, the manufacturer Miralles. The gate, covered with tortoise-shell tiles, was the main entrance to his country estate. Now this surreal building is surrounded by modern urban development. In 2000, a monument to Antonio Gaudi with his autograph was erected in the arch.
- address: Pg. de Manuel Girona 55-61
- Free
The 4D show “Gaudí Experiència” introduces the audience to the work of Gaudí using modern audiovisual technologies. During this exciting ride, you will uncover the mysteries behind Gaudí’s revolutionary architectural language. The Gaudí Exhibition Center, where the show takes place, is located next to the Park Güell. buy a ticket
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Barcelona Gaudí architecture
Page Content
This page will give you an introduction to Gaudí’s architecture in Barcelona and why his work is so important to Barcelona.
| Gaudí architecture in Barcelona inside the giant Sagrada Família 9 basilica0337 |
Architects around the world admire Gaudí’s work as an example of one of the most unique and distinctive architectural styles.
His work fundamentally changed the face of Barcelona architecture, and Gaudí’s work can be seen throughout the city centre.
| Palau Güell iron entrance gate by Gaudí |
Antonio Gaudí was born in Reus in 1852 and graduated as an architect in 1878.
From the very beginning, his designs differed from those of his contemporaries. Gaudí was not as influenced by the ideas of other architects as he was by the forms of nature.
| Famous skull-and-bones balconies of Casa Batlló. The colors of the façade were inspired by natural corals. |
You will find that most of Gaudí’s buildings have a natural look. This underlying concept of using nature as a primary influence on his creativity is reflected in the use of natural curved stone structures, twisted iron sculptures and nature-like forms, all hallmarks of Gaudí’s architecture.
Looking at the façade of Casa Batlló, for example, you will see that the balconies look like skulls and the supports on the windows look like bones. The colorful mosaics used to decorate the walls of Casa Batlló were taken from the colors of natural corals.
Gaudí decorated many of his buildings with colored tile mosaics.
With this, he added another facet to his work, which architects often do not notice – the use of color.
| Gaudí dragon in the Parc Güell. |
The combination of original design, interesting shapes and bright colors in the works of Gaudí give them a truly incomparable look.
| Gaudí’s Güell Colonnade |
To give you an idea of his style, we have prepared three articles reviewing some of Gaudí’s work.
| Gaudí architecture in Barcelona – Park Güell |
Huge basilica, probably the greatest work of Gaudí and the most visited attraction in Barcelona
A magical park with amazing buildings, sculptures and mosaics created by Gaudí. Güell Park also houses Gaudí’s old house, which is now open to the public and is a small museum.
One of the most interesting and unusual houses in Barcelona.