Gaudi Free Tour

Now we're in Barcelona, and we've joined Gaudi free tour. Antoni Gaudi was born in Reus in 1852 and received his Architectural degree in 1878. His work has greatly influenced the face of Barcelona Architecture and you will see Gaudi's work all over the city. Here at Placa Reial, we have the first piece of Gaudi, the lamp.

The meeting point of Gaudi tour and his first piece of work:

Gaudi's work was greatly influenced by forms of nature and this is reflected by the use of curved construction stones, twisted iron sculptures, and organic-like forms which are traits of Gaudi's Barcelona architecture. The two buildings here has no right angle in its structural design.

Two buildings in Passeig de Gracia:

Then, we're here at Gaudi's masterpiece, Sagrada Familia, a giant basilica that is under construction since 1886 and expected to complete in 30 years. There are 12 towers rising from the building representing the 12 apostles and 3 facades(entrance) with different sculptures around it that symbolize something.

Nativity facade (east): represents the birth of Christ, filled with element of life.
Passion facade (west): represents the crucifixion of Christ, with story line from torture to burial.
Glory facade (south): represents heaven & hell, creation, so Adam & Eve will be there (not complete).

Sagrada Familia and Passion facade:

It's €13 for entrance and elevator to the top. Seriously, it's huge and beautiful inside, white walls, pillars and incredible design. We also took the elevator up to the top bridge where we can see almost the whole Barcelona town. Underground, there's a museum about history and plans of the basilica, and also a real design workshop.

Inside Sagrada Familia:

So the tour ends here, but we continue ourselves to another of Gaudi's design, Park Guell. It's a hill to climb but the feeling on top of is marvelous. The great scenery of town to the sea, with strong wind blowing and some rock cross sculpted. I literally need to rely on the cross or else I'll be blown away.

Peak of Park Guell:

"I lift up my eyes to the mountains, where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth."
-Psalms 121:1~2-

Lots of fun sight-seeing, listening stories and exploring Barcelona, indeed a beautiful city full of amazement. It's wonderful how a single person can make such a huge impact to a city. Never underestimate how God can use us, and the blessing will be remembered and passed down over generations, Amen.