One of the most beautiful cities in Spain, Barcelona, is full of architecture inspired and designed by Antoni Gaudi, a famous Spanish architect. You won't be able to walk around the city and not see something he designed. Barcelona is the capital of the region of Catalonia in the Northeast of Spain. Here it is not uncommon to hear people speaking Catalan, a language entirely different from Spanish. However different they sound, with a knowledge of other romance languages, like Spanish, French or Italian, you might be able to pick up on some of the words.
Barcelona is home to the famous unfinished Sagrada Familia church, which translates to the Holy Family. It was designed by none other than Antoni Gaudi and began construction in 1882 ("Antoni Gaudi"). It's mind blowing that over 100 years later, it still remains in construction. While I was visiting in 2016, locals said that it was only 50% completed and they hoped to finish it by 2026. It stands tall with over 10 towers surrounding it. Each side of the church represents a monumental moment in Christs life: his birth, his death and resurrection and his future ("Antoni Gaudi"). The church is designed in the shape of a cross, like most catholic churches, which represent the father, son and Holy Spirit.
Although some people view it as an eyesore in the middle of the city, I think it is a very interesting and intriguing building. The architecture something you would only see in this region, since Gaudi worked primarily in Catalonia. It is completely different than any other cathedral and basilica that you see in other parts of Europe, that are more traditional. I highly recommend that you take the time to see the inside as well. It is filled with multicolored stained glass windows that let in rainbows of light all day long. It almost reminds me of a jungle, with the large pillars looking like trees and all of the different colours bouncing off the walls.
Another cool and interesting spot to visit is Park Guell. It was designed by Antoni Gaudi in the early 1900s and it originally served the purpose of a housing development (Roca i Albert et al.). This was unsuccessful and ever since it has been open to the public to visit. It's a funky place with stunning views of the city and many architectural sights.
