Güell Park

Güell park is one of the most fascinating urban parks in the world. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Works of Antoni Gaudí”.

The origins

Residential complex commissioned by Gaudí’s patron

Güell Park was commissioned by Gaudí’s patron, Eusebi Güell who wanted to create a residential complex. The intention was to exploit the fresh air and beautiful views from the site. Güell added to the prestige of the development by moving in 1906 to live there. Gaudí, at Güell’s suggestion, also bought a house in the park and moved in with his family. Gaudí’s former residence, Casa-Museu Gaudí now houses a collection of Gaudí’s furnishings and other memorabilia.

Inspiration

Organic forms inspired by nature

Gaudí has always been inspired by nature. The design of the park reflects this conviction. The landscape has been largely left unmodified. Instead of making artificial changes, Gaudí has adjusted the plans based on existing conditions. For example building terraces and supporting walls that fit perfectly thanks to their natural and organic forms. He was also concerned about the management of the construction costs. Famously, he even used scraps of a nearby pottery factory.

The fate of the project

The work was suspended. Now UNESCO World Heritage site

Unfortunately, the project could not be completed because of financial problems. Initially, 60 villas were to be built to allow the financing of the park. But the idea of Gaudí and Güell did not convince the Catalan bourgeoisie and almost none of the 60 villas were built. The lack of interest shown by the upper-class for the project led to the suspension of the building work. In 1922, the City Council acquired the complex in order to transform it into a public park. It is now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Works of Antoni Gaudí”.

Features of the park

Multi colored mosaic lizard and serpent-shaped mosaic tiled seat

Entering the park through the main entrance you are greeted by one of Barcelona’s familiar symbols, the multi colored mosaic lizard, symbolizing fire and alchemy. The central area of the park which is a large square terrace with an unusual, and very colorful, curved ‘serpent’ mosaic tiled seat running around the perimeter. Gaudí is said to have used seated workmen as actual models for the form of the seat. It’s generally overlooked that some of the most spectacular and innovative mosaics were the work of Gaudi’s collaborator, Josep Maria Jujol. He was given a free hand in producing the unique mosaics in Güell Park.

Photo credits (in order of appearance): Alex E. Proimos, Pau Audouard, unkown author, PromptGuides.com, PromptGuides.com

About 8 years ago Luka

Tags: Barcelona, guell park, spain

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