By: Veena Rajan

What is Parc Guell? Parc Guell is a municipal garden in Barcelona, that was designed by Antonio Gaudi. It was originally designed as a housing development, inspried by the British “Parks,” however it was unsuccessful as a development, and became a park in It is located on the El Carmel Hill in the Gracia district.

Important People The Architect: Antonio Gaudi The Sponsor: Eusebi Güell Born in 1852 in Cataluna Son of a coppersmith Had a warped Gothic architecture style One of the first supporters of Gaudi Wanted a stylish park for Barcelona aristocracy

Gaudi’s style can be seen in the structure of the park, from its wavy, curving style. The designs on the benches are mosaics, which are created from broken pieces of stone.

The focal point of the park is the main entrance, which is surrounded by a bench in the form of a long serpent.

Gaudi was strongly influenced by natural shapes and colors, which can be seen in the designs on the benches inside the park. The landscaping of the Park is largely in tune with the natural terrain; steep slopes and cliffs have been allowed to remain, with winding paths, cuttings and grottoes adding to the natural feel.

The cross at the top of the park, offers a panoramic view of Barcelona… as well as a beautiful view of the park.

The Gaudi Museum Gaudi built his own home inside the park, where he lived for 20 years. It is now a museum, which displays some of his furniture designs.

The park can be reached from the underground tunnels, as well as regular buses; however, the bus stations are far from the park. The park itself is free, but the museum is not.

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