Barcelona According To Gaudi...

Started in 1882, the yet
unfinished La Sagrada Familia

Ah, yes... how can a mention of Barcelona, indeed... not elicit thoughts of Antoni Gaudi and his exceptional interpretation of modern architecture, circa dawn of the 20th century. Of his works, the yet unfinished La Sagrada Familia Cathedral would become an iconic symbol of the Catalan capital... and himself, the architect. Construction started early in 1882... and the push is to now finish the cathedral by 2026, in time to commemorate the 100-year anniversary of his death. He died of severe trauma after being hit by a Barcelona street tram and is buried in the cathedral's crypt.

(This write up was prompted by a news story read earlier.) https://www.dw.com/en/barcelonas-la-sagrada-familia-gets-building-permit-after-137-years/a-49115995

The Sagrada Familia is undeniably an awesome structure... just too radical for me. Modern Gothic loses me. One of his other works, Casa Batllo, on the other hand... pleasantly

Facade of Casa Batllo

overwhelms me. The "disciplined non-discipline" is striking. (Yes, I vouch there is such a process as there is a behavior like I think I have... both introvert-extrovert.) But anyway, I do find this particular effort of his... remarkably way ahead of its time. Quite a few of the touches would be considered modern even by today's take. The use of natural light, glass and recycled bits of tiles, Gaudi was way ahead of his peers. I can only chuckle when sometimes I would end up with the thought that... perhaps, he was on "prohibited medication"... how he would come up with such unparalleled style and fluid architectural renditions. Casa Battlo captivates! 

Casa Batllo roof deck and interiors

( Gaudi's other works in Barcelona I recommend visiting ... Casa Mira, Park Guell )