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Dally in the Dreamland of Barcelona’s Park Guell
Published by Erin Pienaar, Writer
Country: Spain 
The Experience
The beautiful Park Guell of Barcelona, Spain, is an extraordinary sight. Fantastic pavilions and sculptures are positioned amid the herb paths and foliage, seemingly plucked from a dream. Now one of the most popular parks in Barcelona, it is difficult to believe that Park Guell came from inauspicious origins. Barcelona industrialist Eusebi Guell, obtained the park with the intention of building a housing development for the wealthy, and he recruited architect Antoni Gaudí to assist him. The plan was a failure as only two houses were built and Guell was unable to sell either of them. Gaudi finally purchased one of the homes for himself and his family. The city claimed the property in 1918, and it was opened as a public park in 1922.
Antoni Gaudi designed many of Park Guell’s enchanting features, including the impressive double staircase at the Park’s entrance. Located at the top of the staircase is Gaudi’s famous dragon fountain, which is decorated in a mosaic style with multi-coloured ceramic pieces. Another notable Park Guell feature is the winding bench located in the Gran Placa Circular, the park’s plaza. The serpentine bench is decorated with multicoloured broken tiles and depicts a variety of images, such as flowers, geometric shapes and symbols. The images on the bench resemble a brightly-coloured collage, and the snake-like design is intended to provide a more sociable environment. Not only is the bench a nifty piece of art and a comfortable resting place, it also presents a stunning view of Barcelona.
The two buildings at Park Guell’s entrance are also incredible, resembling fairy tale gingerbread houses. The walls are made of brown brick and the pale roofs are decorated with more ceramic designs. There are also walkways supported by pillars that look like tree trunks, and the hypostyle chamber (a long hallway with a ceiling decorated by sun mosaics). At the highest point of the Park there are three stone crosses. To reach these, tourists must precariously climb small steps with no railings. The trek is well worth it as this hill offers the most spectacular panoramic view of Barcelona. Park Guell also contains Gaudi’s former home, which is now a small museum. It features pictures of the famous architect, his drawings, and furniture designed by him.
It is difficult to find words to accurately describe this wonderfully whimsical park. A walk through Park Guell is truly like taking a journey into a fairytale landscape. Visitors to Barcelona should definitely take in this impressive sight, as it is unlike any other park in the world.
Antoni Gaudi designed many of Park Guell’s enchanting features, including the impressive double staircase at the Park’s entrance. Located at the top of the staircase is Gaudi’s famous dragon fountain, which is decorated in a mosaic style with multi-coloured ceramic pieces. Another notable Park Guell feature is the winding bench located in the Gran Placa Circular, the park’s plaza. The serpentine bench is decorated with multicoloured broken tiles and depicts a variety of images, such as flowers, geometric shapes and symbols. The images on the bench resemble a brightly-coloured collage, and the snake-like design is intended to provide a more sociable environment. Not only is the bench a nifty piece of art and a comfortable resting place, it also presents a stunning view of Barcelona.
The two buildings at Park Guell’s entrance are also incredible, resembling fairy tale gingerbread houses. The walls are made of brown brick and the pale roofs are decorated with more ceramic designs. There are also walkways supported by pillars that look like tree trunks, and the hypostyle chamber (a long hallway with a ceiling decorated by sun mosaics). At the highest point of the Park there are three stone crosses. To reach these, tourists must precariously climb small steps with no railings. The trek is well worth it as this hill offers the most spectacular panoramic view of Barcelona. Park Guell also contains Gaudi’s former home, which is now a small museum. It features pictures of the famous architect, his drawings, and furniture designed by him.
It is difficult to find words to accurately describe this wonderfully whimsical park. A walk through Park Guell is truly like taking a journey into a fairytale landscape. Visitors to Barcelona should definitely take in this impressive sight, as it is unlike any other park in the world.
When to Go to Park Guell
The best time to visit Park Guell in Barcelona is during the spring, as May and June offer great weather without the hoards of tourists. Avoid July and August when Barcelona is mostly crowded and the weather is hot and humid. When visiting Park Guell steer clear of Sunday afternoons and public holidays as the Park can get very busy.
Odds n' Ends
Entrance to Park Guell is free, but entrance to the Gaudi museum costs €3. Opening hours vary depending on the season, but are generally from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. When travelling by metro, expect a 20-minute uphill walk to reach the Park. Those who have trouble with steep steps and hills should take a taxi or bus. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as Park Guell contains both hills and stairs.
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