For anyone planning a trip to Spain, then there are plenty of options available to you. Spain isn't only about the familiar traditional tourist destinations of Ibiza, Torremolinos and Benidorm, if you are after something a little more unusual then book yourself on a flight to Barcelona. This European city has a wealth of attractions and sights to admire and there are few others that can compete with the broad diversity of cultural experiences it has to offer. Art, history, architecture, wine, food and shopping, mix it all up with great weather and a beach on the doorstep and you have all the ingredients needed for a perfect holiday. Barcelona has seen many great painters and artists living within its limits and many of them have left their mark on the city in the form of its architecture, and in the museums and galleries. Picasso and Mir both have museums dedicated to their works and there are plenty of other art galleries and museums to appreciate. You don't have to be an art fanatic to appreciate Gaudi's works and it's worth visiting Barcelona just to see some of his finest pieces found dotted all over the city. One of the most important modernist style architects in the world, his work is both imaginative and extraordinary and has greatly influenced the look of Barcelona architecture. Barcelona is a modern and chic city, it is also very independent and this is expressed in its unique little boutiques, interesting markets, romantic apartments Catalan dialect and its art and architecture. All over the city you will be awe struck at the art galleries and buildings that denote Barcelona, and the Gaudi masterpieces dominate the city. Millions of visitors flock to Barcelona just to see the works of Gaudi, here are just a few of his works that would be a shame to miss. The main Gaudi attraction is La Sagrada Familia, an ongoing project and a symbol of Barcelona. Work started on the cathedral in 1883 and Gaudi worked on it until he died in 1926, the project is still incomplete and won't be until at least 2030. People visit the church for its religious meaning and stunning architecture. Since it was started more than 125 years ago it has been built only using funds from donations. The Catholic faith is expressed in its fascinating architecture with eighteen bell towers, three facades, and a set of columns dedicated to Christian cities and continents. The second 'must see' Gaudi masterpiece is Park Guell which dates back to 1900 when Eusebi Guell commissioned him to build a garden city proposed for the cream of Barcelona society. Gaudi was very much influenced by nature and this is reflected by his use of curved construction stones, twisted iron sculptures, and organic-like forms. There are some great examples in the park including the Gaudi dragon fountain at the entrance bejeweled in striking coloured tiling, and Casa Museu Gaudi - Gaudi's abode for most of his last 20 years. Also at the top of the park is a terraced area where you get a wonderful view of the park and the city. Batll is one of the two great buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi on Passeig de Gracia, the second being La Pedrera the exterior of Casa Batll is designed to resemble skulls and bones, the skulls are actually balconies, whilst the bones are supporting pillars. When you see inside you realize the attention to detail Gaudi spent on his designs and every little detail has been given a lot of thought. Look online for rental apartments in Barcelona and discover Gaudi's masterpieces for yourself. The city has a lot to offer visitors and with the warm weather and beach nearby, it is the perfect short break destination.
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