The simple fortress
There’s a building in the Sagrada Familia (Holy Family) area of Barcelona that goes almost totally unnoticed due to the magnificence of the world famous cathedral.
Before heading in to visit the Sagrada Familia, I’d advise you to dedicate a little of your time to see this exceptional museum and the schools. You’ll find a plethora of valuable information to help you better understand the Gaudian world, especially in regards to the impressive Temple
Don’t leave without entering into the school building. It’s considered one of Gaudí’s best works (the admission is included in the general entrance fee). Despite its winding, curving lines which give it an incredible gentleness and beauty, nothing is much further from the truth. This complex is carefully planned is covered in robust, rigid and perfect geometric shapes, according to some. The schools were destroyed during the Spanish Civil War and were later reconstructed, rock by rock, following Gaudi’s designs.
The façade is gorgeous, made with red Catalan brick. The interior houses a series of models, sketches, drawings that truly complete the visit to the Sagrada Familia. I like to consider the fact that its construction cost 9,000 pesetas at its time, just 60 € by today’s standard. Le Corbusier and Santiage Calatrava, among other great architects, have been faithful followers of this simple building which is known for its avant-garde and modernist style.
This is another of Gaudi’s many unknown gems that receives no attention in front of the majestic Sagrada Family, but only goes on to make his work even greater.
