Gaudi, the Master of Catalan Modernism - Architecture. Antoni Gaudi.
Barcelona is full of interesting buildings. From the Middle Ages to modern architecture. Even remnants of the ancient Roman city can be seen. In Barcelona, the architectural signature definitely carries the thumbprint of artist Antoni Gaudi. This Catalan architect (Reus 1852 - 1926) captivates people of all ages and backgrounds. What few know is that one finds his architecture not only in Barcelona, but also some of his artworks appear on Catalan and Spanish territory.
Gaudi is the most famous representative of the Catalan art movement of modern times, which was established initially in between the late nineteenth and the early twentieth century. One of the main characteristics of this movement is the integration of crafts such as blacksmithing, ceramics, glass or architecture. Modernity at this also means the integration of basic elements of nature in the artworks, used in both - in the materials as well as in the forms.
Gaudi leads modernism to the extreme and created a style that has been used by recurring geometric figures of a few architects. At the same time he was a very good at the structural requirements of a building. The result was and is that fascinating that it seems almost magical.
In addition, the decorative elements played an important role in his work. Structure and crafts cohere in his work. The one does not function properly without the other one. One of the most popular methods is the "Gaudi Trencadis" - a kind of mosaic of small clay slices, which are held together by mortar.
The most famous works of Gaudi in Barcelona: Sagrada Familia (still under construction, begun in 1882), Casa Mila (known as La Pedrera), the Parc Güell or certainly impressive, Casa Batllo, which shows masks on the facade (especially at night illuminated in a very pretty way). Moreover, the "Casa Botines" in the city of Leon is very worth seeing.
Seven works of Gaudi are announced as UNESCO World Heritage Site.
