An all-Gaudi day

An all-Gaudi day ... Gaudi is the most famous architect in Barcelona (and possibly Spanish) history. But, defining Gaudi solely as an architect is a little like defining De Vinci solely as a sculptor. Both were much more than perhaps they are best known for. 

Gaudi's famous basilica "Sagrada Família" is the centrepiece of Barcelona's love affair with culture, art and architecture. Construction began in 1882 and is scheduled for completion in 2026, on the 100th anniversary of Gaudi's death. 

The basilica's art is an amazing expression of its architecture and Roman Catholic iconography. Simply, there are too many styles, motifs, meanings (and double/triple meanings), symbols and ideas to understand and appreciate in one afternoon visit. Sort of like driving by St. Peter's on the tour bus and saying that you have visited the Vatican. For decades, serious students of Gaudi, architecture, engineering and art have been identifying new questions for graduate studies. 

The afternoon was spent at Gaudi's "Casa Battlo". Funky, whimsical, original, creative, odd, interesting ... all suitable expressions of Gaudi's work. Sort of what you might expect if you were reading Dr. Seuss while stoned. Casa Battlo is perhaps Gaudi's best work of Moderist architecture. 

Tomorrow morning we say ciao to Barcelona and board a train for a 4-hour journey to Pamplona. We won't be in town for the festive "running of the bulls", but we will be picking up our passports for the Camino de Santiago.

... more later!