Barcelona: Parc Guell
Parc Guell is just one of the many sites in Barcelona designed by the internationally renowned architect Antonio Gaudi. The 20 hectare park was build between 1900-1914 and sits on a hill to the north of the city. It provides the perfect getaway from the busy city and is full of lush greenery.
When in Parc Guell you’ll be able to enjoy dramatic views over Barcelona below. The terraced garden combine natural beauty with artificial. If you love Gaudi’s unique and creative mosaic work you’ll love parc Guell is it’s full of it. The seating covered in mosaics is stunning.
If it’s a hot day have a rest at the small café at the edge of the park for a refreshing drink. Barcelona can get extremely hot in the summer and the hill leading up to the park is steep and tiring. For visitors needing a little more sustenance, there are several small restaurants to choose from. Note the outstanding dragon-themed fountain as you enter. It’s covered in Gaudi’s trademark multi-colored tiles.
Then stroll down the flower-festooned walkways dotted with many mosaic tiles that show Gaudi’s distinctive influence.
The park it’s self holds many wondrous delights. As a lover of Guadi’s art you’ll want o visit the museum which is dedicated to his art, photos and other interesting info. The museum actually used to be his house and contain furniture he designed himself.
Outside once again, alongside the lush shrubbery reside many worthy sights, including sculpture, columns, restaurants and museums. Everything is considered, including the benches which are works of art in themselves. One spectacular example is the Paseo de Palmas.
Further on are still more examples of wondrous sights. The Hall of the Hundred Columns (Sala de las Cien Columnas) is an array of classical supports. However what is above them is inspired by later styles and is covered in mosaic modern tiles.
A walkway is close by and is supported by twisted rock pillars. They are irregular and organic in design, further demonstrating Gaudi’s genius.
There are two main ways of getting to the park. If you don’t mind a steep climb you can take the metro to the Lesseps stop. However if you want to save your energy, take the metro to Vallcarca which allows you to then take a outdoor escalators to your destination. However you will have to walk back down the hill.
Admission to the park is free and most buildings open at 10 a.m.