Park Güell
UNESCO World Heritage site, Park Guell is perhaps the most original garden complex in Europe. ‘Decorated’ with the works of Antoni Gaudi, the 42.5-acre park was designed by the architect, and was declared as a historical artistic monument of the national government in 1969.
Situated on the hill of el Carmel in the Gracia district of Barcelona, the park was originally part of a commercially unsuccessful housing site, planned by Count Eusebi Guell.
Inspired by the English Garden City movement, it’s original purpose was to exploit the fresh air well away from the smoky factories, and take advantage of the beautiful views of terracotta coloured roofs in eye line for miles around.
Only two houses came to fruition in Guell’s plan, and the open space was then used to house original works by Gaudi and several of his collaborators.
The park is designed and composed to bring the peace you would expect from such a recreational space through its flamboyantly designed landscape suggests attention to detail was Gaudi’s priority.
As well as an open space to walk around in, Park Guell offers an opportunity to visit the Gaudi museum and also Gaudi’s house – la Torre Rosa which contained furniture he designed.
Stepping through the gated entrance of Park Guell you are greeted by Gaudi’s multicoloured mosaic dragon fountain. A 180 turn to the parks opening provides an equally intriguing view of two distinctly Gaudi buildings. Whether your eyes are drawn to the bright colours, the original housing designs of the cleverly created stone columns, any visitor will be intrigued as to what a visit will hold for them once inside.
There are many noticeable areas of the park that are recommended should you visit. These including the “Gingerbread House” at the park’s entrance, the footpath under the roadway viaduct around the west side, and stand-out large cross at the park’s high point which offers the most compete view of Barcelona and the surrounding bay.
Winding paths around the circumference of the park create the feeling of a confusing maze but each path leads to a central terrace which provides a good look out point with its uniquely tiled and curved bench perfect for resting and taking in your surroundings.
Park Guell can be reached by the city’s Metro service. Lesseps is the closest point of entry but a ten minute walk is required up the base of a hill to arrive at the gates. Busses also provide a good option with regular services from Placa de Cataluña on Bus 24 which will drop you right at the entrance.
Tours in English are available to guide you around the most interesting parts of the park, and the experienced and knowledgeable guides are also able to offer insights on Gaudi’s creations in the park.
Opening at 10am on each day and closing at sunset, the park is definitely worth a visit on a sunny day in Cataluña.
Situated on the hill of el Carmel in the Gracia district of Barcelona, the park was originally part of a commercially unsuccessful housing site, planned by Count Eusebi Guell.
Inspired by the English Garden City movement, it’s original purpose was to exploit the fresh air well away from the smoky factories, and take advantage of the beautiful views of terracotta coloured roofs in eye line for miles around.
Only two houses came to fruition in Guell’s plan, and the open space was then used to house original works by Gaudi and several of his collaborators.
The park is designed and composed to bring the peace you would expect from such a recreational space through its flamboyantly designed landscape suggests attention to detail was Gaudi’s priority.
As well as an open space to walk around in, Park Guell offers an opportunity to visit the Gaudi museum and also Gaudi’s house – la Torre Rosa which contained furniture he designed.
Stepping through the gated entrance of Park Guell you are greeted by Gaudi’s multicoloured mosaic dragon fountain. A 180 turn to the parks opening provides an equally intriguing view of two distinctly Gaudi buildings. Whether your eyes are drawn to the bright colours, the original housing designs of the cleverly created stone columns, any visitor will be intrigued as to what a visit will hold for them once inside.
There are many noticeable areas of the park that are recommended should you visit. These including the “Gingerbread House” at the park’s entrance, the footpath under the roadway viaduct around the west side, and stand-out large cross at the park’s high point which offers the most compete view of Barcelona and the surrounding bay.
Winding paths around the circumference of the park create the feeling of a confusing maze but each path leads to a central terrace which provides a good look out point with its uniquely tiled and curved bench perfect for resting and taking in your surroundings.
Park Guell can be reached by the city’s Metro service. Lesseps is the closest point of entry but a ten minute walk is required up the base of a hill to arrive at the gates. Busses also provide a good option with regular services from Placa de Cataluña on Bus 24 which will drop you right at the entrance.
Tours in English are available to guide you around the most interesting parts of the park, and the experienced and knowledgeable guides are also able to offer insights on Gaudi’s creations in the park.
Opening at 10am on each day and closing at sunset, the park is definitely worth a visit on a sunny day in Cataluña.