subject: Barcelona is a Mecca of World Architecture [print this page] Barcelona is a Mecca of World Architecture
Barcelona is a dynamic city and well-known for its architecture, both modern and historical. Just take a quick look at its cityscape and the diversity it offers, starting with the most famous of all, Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlo by Antoni Gaudi. Barcelona Cathedral, Barcelona Pavilion building by Mies van der Rohe, the Agbar Tower by Jean Nouvel and Barcelona Pavilion by Mies van der Rohe are just a few of the stunning architectural designs, take a visit to the city yourself and give your visual senses a feast.
Any architectural tour has to start with Antoni Gaudi, the greatest Catalan Architect there ever was. Barcelona is littered with his weird and wonderful designs and he is one of the main reasons the city attracts so many tourists. The most famous work by Gaudi in the city is the, as yet, uncompleted La Sagrada Familia basilica, and Barcelona's most famous building. Antoni Gaudi also started the project Park Guell intending it as a place to relax for the rich and famous.
The Passeig de Gracia features 2 of Gaudi's original designs, the colourful Casa Battlo in the Illa de la Discordia and La Pedrera with its undulating concrete and twisted iron balconies, rooftop sculptures and chimneys.
Located at the base of Spain's tallest buildings, the Hotel Arts and the Mapfre Tower at Port Olympica is the famous Frank Gehry fish - The Golden Fish. Commissioned for the 1992 Olympics, the fish and Hotel Arts were both designed by the American Frank O. Gehry, considered to be one of the most artful and creative modern architects, contrasting space, materials and form to produce remarkable, energetic art. Some of his other works of art include the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles, The Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao, and the Fishdance Restaurant in Kobe, Japan.
The fish sculpture is breathtakingly huge, measuring 35m x 54m. Constructed from stone, steel and glass, you can't fail to spot it as its exterior is covered with shiny metal plates that change colour in the sun.
The Agbar Tower, inspired by Gaud, was designed by Jean Nouvel whose form reflects the surrounding mountains of Montserrat, and resembles a rising geyser of water. Measuring 473.75 feet tall, the Tower has 38 floors, as well as 4 levels underground and is made from reinforced concrete covered with red and blue glass panels. During the evenings the Tower is brightly lit up by LED lights in more than 4,500 windows, glass blinds are motorized automatically opening and closing to regulate the temperature inside.
The Hotel W, otherwise known as La Vela, is a striking hotel located next to the sea and designed by the Catalan architect Ricardo Bofill to look like a gigantic boat sail. Born in Barcelona in 1939, Bofill is celebrated for his architectural structures that harmonise with different local cultures.
The new airport terminal was also designed by Bofill and its design features international, multicultural qualities with the warmth of Mediterranean architecture. Its transparency allows natural light to flood into every area and provides panoramic views of the runways, the sea and the natural landscape. The combination of functionality, technology, deference to the local environment and distinctive architecture will doubtless ensure the success of the new terminal and be copied all over the world.
Located in the 22@ district on Diagonal Avenue at Pere IV, Hotel Me Barcelona is a glass structure designed by French architect Dominique Perrault. Making the most of the city views, it's ultra-modern, stimulating and Victorian, with a vintage style interior and furniture. Crystal candelabra personally selected by Pete Wentz has created a modern, romantic atmosphere.
If you are a real fan of architecture, whether historical or modern, then perhaps you should consider visiting the city during the month of November when the world architecture festival is held. Revolutionary architects present their innovative designs in the hope of winning Building of the Year Award' and some of the industry's most celebrated names can be found here displaying truly inspiring designs.
Consider renting an apartment if you're planning a holiday to Barcelona, a stylish central Barcelona apartments to call home during your stay here offers convenience and privacy. After a long day visiting the attractions, working or shopping, return to your air-conditioned, elegantly decorated apartment with all the comforts of home, a modern kitchen and spacious living-room and all mod-cons included.
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