Parc Guell

Gaudi's Parc Guell lies above the city of Barcelona. The land the park lies on was donated by Count Eusebi de Guell to be developed into a garden city around 1900. After failing to succeed commercially the decision was made to change the area into a municipal garden. The entry is free but the Gaudi museum in his old house charges admission. This park is an explosion of Gaudi and Spanish modern style. Everything is covered in organic stone forms and mosaics. Playful fountains and sculptures are found all over within the park. One of the most famous parts of the park are the serpentine benches found atop the central pavilion. These benches curve back and forth around a large square to alternately create private conversation spaces and people watching spaces. Another main draw the park is the view from it. From atop the pavilion you can see all of the city and the sea beyond. It was the best view of the city I saw while in Barcelona. Getting to the park is slightly off the path. The closest Metro station is about a 20 minute walk and the last 5 minutes is sharply uphill. If in Barcelona, this park cannot be missed and is a proper companion to studying Gaudi's architecture throughout the city.

Elizabeth Conte