Traveling in Spain｜Walking in Gaudí's Footsteps

"When architecture becomes art, in Barcelona" Barcelona from Montjuïc Hill The moment I arrived in Barcelona, Spain, I was greeted by exotic sunlight and the refreshing Mediterranean air. The entire city seemed to be bathed in vibrant colors. My first stop was Montjuïc Hill, where I took in the panoramic view of Barcelona and warmed up for the day. Then, the real adventure of exploring Gaudí's city began. Sagrada Família The journey into Gaudí's world naturally started with the Sagrada Família. Even from afar, this building boasts an overwhelming presence, and as you step closer, the intricate details reveal themselves anew. The curves inspired by nature and the light-filled stained glass windows were awe-inspiring. Inside the cathedral, the scene was breathtaking—pillars resembling a forest and light pouring down from above created a sense of serene wonder. The silence added to the majesty, making me marvel, "Was this really made by human hands?" Park Güell Next, I visited the colorful and whimsical Park Güell. From the entrance, I was welcomed by the winding lizard fountain, and the mosaic-tiled structures spread across the hill. Gaudí's philosophy of harmonizing with nature was evident throughout the park. The view of Barcelona from the park's summit was stunning, leaving me breathless. Sitting on the stone benches, I could feel Gaudí's playful spirit and genius infused into every tile. Casa Batlló & Casa Milà In the heart of Barcelona, along Passeig de Gràcia, lie more of Gaudí's masterpieces. Casa Batlló stands out with its wave-like curves, visible in its windows, balconies, and roof—almost devoid of straight lines. At night, the building is illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere. During the interior tour, I was amazed by the natural light streaming through the skylights and the detailed design for air circulation. Nearby, **Casa Milà (La Pedrera)** features an exterior resembling a massive rock formation. Seeing it in person reveals how closely architecture can align with art. The rooftop chimneys looked like sculptures, and the curved staircases and window frames inside showcased Gaudí's unique craftsmanship. ⸻ Reflections After experiencing Gaudí's architecture, it felt less like a simple trip and more like an encounter with time, space, and art. His works transcend being mere "beautiful buildings"; they are philosophical creations that consider nature, humanity, light, and form, leaving a lasting impression that lingers for decades. ⸻ Tips for Planning a Gaudí Tour For the Sagrada Família, make sure to book tickets in advance and opt for the audio guide. Visit Park Güell early in the morning to avoid crowds, and enjoy the view during the golden hours when sunlight enhances its beauty. As you slowly immerse yourself in Gaudí's traces scattered throughout the city, you might find that Barcelona itself feels like one of his masterpieces.