• Casa Batlló and Eixample

    May 12, 2024 in Spain ⋅ ☁️ 68 °F

    For Mother's Day I wanted to walk the Eixample and visit more of Gaudi's famous buildings that I hadn't been in before. We were't able to go in all of them due to time, but just the facades and lamppost benches make my heart sing!

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    Casa Batlló is one of Antoni Gaudí's most celebrated works in Barcelona, a stunning example of his unique approach to Modernist architecture. The building features a vibrant, organic façade with flowing lines, intricate balconies that resemble masks or sea creatures, and a roof that mimics the back of a dragon. Inside, Gaudí's design continues with sculptural staircases, skylights resembling tortoise shells, and a striking, noble floor. Casa Batlló is not just a building but a work of art, illustrating Gaudí's ability to blend functionality with fantastical forms.

    Eixample, the district where Casa Batlló is located, is famous for its grid-like layout, wide avenues, and modernist architecture. Designed by Ildefons Cerdà in the 19th century, the area was a part of the city's expansion beyond its original medieval walls. Eixample is characterized by its orderly street grid and chamfered corners, which enhance visibility and ventilation. The district is also home to many of Barcelona's architectural treasures, including Gaudí’s Casa Milà and the Sagrada Familia, making it a central area for those interested in the city's iconic modernist heritage. Together, Casa Batlló and Eixample embody Barcelona's architectural innovation and are key destinations for understanding its cultural and historical progression.
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