When it comes to remarkable architecture, Antoni Gaudí is a name that stands out. This Spanish architect made a name for himself thanks to his love for natural forms and striking design. No fewer than seven of his buildings are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. You can read more about the most famous buildings of this Spaniard in the top 10 buildings of Gaudí.
10. Casa Vicens
Casa Vicens is one of the first major buildings Gaudí created. Some even call it one of his most spectacular works. Casa Vicens stands out due to its bright colors and intricate details, giving the building a somewhat busy appearance. Gaudí designed the building for businessman Manuel Vicens, who lived there between 1883 and 1889. Since then, it has remained a residence, but in 2014 it was acquired by a company that aims to turn it into a museum.
9. Casa Calvet
Gaudí enthusiasts consider Casa Calvet one of the architect’s more understated works. The building is striking by Gaudí’s standards, but certainly not conspicuous in the cityscape. Casa Calvet features some typical Gaudí details, such as wavy balconies and the use of natural materials. From the outset, the building served as both residential and commercial space.
8. Casa de los Botines
Not all of Gaudí’s works are in Barcelona; this impressive building is located in the Spanish city of León. It took only a year for Gaudí’s designs to be realized and this house to be completed. An impressive feat, as Casa de los Botines is quite large. The building was initially used as a residence, but in the late 1920s, it was acquired by a bank. The bank adapted the interior, but the exterior still reflects Gaudí’s original design.
7. Güell Palace
Some say that Güell Palace is one of Gaudí’s masterpieces. That is impressive, as this building is one of Gaudí’s early designs. The building was created for one of Gaudí’s greatest admirers: Eusebi Güell. He lived there for several years before moving to another Gaudí building.
6. Episcopal Palace of Astorga
The Episcopal Palace of Astorga is another impressive building by Gaudí. However, its construction did not go smoothly. The building started in 1889, but it was not completed until 1913. This delay was due to Gaudí abandoning the project after four years due to disagreements with the municipality of Astorga. The palace was later completed by another architect, who kept the already built parts but also adapted Gaudí’s plans.
5. Cripta Colònia Güell
This building was intended to be part of a larger church (bottom photo). Gaudí wanted to build this church for the poor workers living near it, but the project was never completed. The building that stands today is essentially a crypt, but this does not make Cripta Colònia Güell any less impressive. With its wavy forms and countless decorations, this is a beautiful piece of architecture to behold.
4. Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is one of the most popular attractions in Barcelona. The house embodies Gaudí’s signature style: there is not a single straight corner. At the same time, the façade is adorned with beautiful mosaics, making Casa Batlló look like a work of art. Gaudí designed this building with a clear vision, using the story of Saint George to shape it.
3. Park Güell
This design by Gaudí was also created for his great fan Eusebi Güell. This public park is unique due to the organic shapes of all the buildings within it. Unfortunately, Gaudí did not manage to complete this beautiful piece of architecture. Nevertheless, you can find several sculptures by Gaudí here, as well as colorful mosaics that blend effortlessly into the surroundings.
2. Casa Milà
In 1912, this famous building was completed for the noble Milà family. From the outset, the local residents of Barcelona gave it a nickname: La Pedrera. This means “the quarry,” a reference to the unique architectural style in which Casa Milà was built.
1. Sagrada Família
Could Gaudí have imagined, when he began constructing this church in Barcelona at the beginning of the 19th century, what a tourist magnet it would become today? He worked on it his entire life. The actual completion is scheduled for … 2026. But don’t let that stop you. This example of Catalan modernism is a must-see in your lifetime. Although the Sagrada Família has the classic shape of a cross, it is very different from other churches due to its natural forms and rich decorations. The basilica has no fewer than 18 towers, representing the 18 figures from the Bible. Below is a video of what the Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s most famous work, will look like.
