Park Güell

For Art Nouveau plus nature, plus the most incredible views of the city in a World Heritage Site, visit Park Güell in Barcelona. In the early 20th century there was a push for modernism in design that still honored tradition. It was in this push that architects and designers thrived in Barcelona. Eusebio Güell assigned Antoni Gaudi to develop this plot of land originally as an estate for wealthy families taking care to not block the views of the see or limit light for any resident. His plans called for preserving nature, and houses with modern conveniences such as running water as well as facilities such as a market, a laundry room, a church and a public square.

There are pavilions and steps and viaducts that create a beautiful entrance to the estate. By 1907 there were large events being held at the estate with the owners approval. By 1914, without adequate transport to Park Güell and a lack of buyers, it was converted to a private garden that was rented out for civic events. Gaudí lived in the model home until his untimely death in 1926, when he was hit by a tram-car in Barcelona and left to die after he was mistaken for a pauper because of his modest attire.

Eventually the Park was purchased by the city of Barcelona, including Gaudí’s house there and it has been a gathering place and tourist attraction since. It became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1984.

You can visit the Park by purchasing a dated and timed ticket. We went in the late afternoon to catch the sunset and it was beautiful, although there were lots of tourists with the same idea which made the main entrance/exit feel so crowded. I loved walking the paths with Matt and seeing the unique shapes and colors that make this such an iconic place in the world.