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Sunday, August 12, 2012

Gaud meets Gehry: modern architecture in Barcelona

By Catherine McCulloch


Bold, bright and brash are just some of the words that come to mind when describing some of Barcelona's more acclaimed structures and an afternoon spent wandering its breathtakingly beautiful streets to see the city's key buildings is an absolute must during any visit. Here's a quick look at some of Barca's most iconic modern buildings to help you plan your trip.

Constructed by Barcelona's own, the famous Antoni Gaud, The Basilica i Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Familia is one of the cities most renowned monuments. However, Gaud was still working on this structure at the time of his death in 1926, so the marvel of architecture still remains unfinished. However, the city plans to complete the monument, which happens to be a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the last 18 spires are said to be finished in 2026. However, today, it is still considered one of the most spectacular buildings in Europe, despite its current construction and demonstrates several different types of architecture from different decades from Gothic style to Art Nouveau.

If you're a fan of London's Gherkin, be sure to check out The Agbar Tower, which the Gherkin was modelled after. Boasting a same oval structure, the 38-story building was completed in 2004 and today towers over the Catalan capital, giving the skyline a contemporary presence.

Designed by Jean Novel, the famous French architect, the building hosts offices, so unfortunately you cannot go up it. However, guests are allowed to enter the lobby where you can catch a glimpse of the magnificent structure from the inside and marvel in its miraculous construction.

Another work of art from Barcelona's architectural father, Gaud is the Casa Batll, or the House of Bones in English, which refers to its skeletal-like structure. Built in 1877, this eerie building was remodelled in the early 20th century and is located in Barcelona's Eixample district, lodged between the old city, Ciutat Vella, easily accessible for those in the city centre.




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