Park Guell was commissioned by Eusebi
Guell. He wanted to construct a garden city,
inspired by the English garden city movement,
having a stylish park for Barcelona aristocracy.
It became a commercially unsuccessful idea
for a planned housing site and in 1923 it was
given to the city as a permanent public park. Park Güell is not a building but a green oasis in the midst of the city. Gaudí's distinctive style is seen throughout, from the benches to the porticoes, and lends the entire space an almost magical air.
Origins as a housing development
The park was originally part of a commercially unsuccessful housing site.It was inspired by the English garden city movement.The site was a rocky hill with little vegetation and few trees and was next to a neighborhood of upper class .The intention was to exploit the fresh air and beautiful views from the site, with sixty triangular lots being provided for luxury houses. Ultimately, only two houses were built. Gaudi lived in one of the houses from 1906 to 1926. Gaudí's house has now been converted into a museum and contains interesting furniture also designed by Gaudi. In 1969 it was declared a historical artistic monument of national interest.
Municipal garden
It has since been converted into a municipal garden. The Park is skillfully designed and composed to bring the peace and calm that one would expect from a park.
The park contains amazing stone structures,
stunning tiling and fascinating buildings.
The focal point of the park is the main terrace, surrounded by a long bench in the form of a sea serpent. The curves of the serpent bench form a number of enclaves, creating a more social atmosphere. Gaudí incorporated many motifs and elements from religious mysticism and ancient poetry, into the Park.
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