01 – Antoni Gaudí
No discussion on eccentric architects would be complete without mentioning the genius of Antoni Gaudí. Born in 1852 in Reus, Catalonia, Gaudí’s distinctive style has come to define the city of Barcelona. His imaginative approach to architecture blended elements of nature, religion, and Catalan culture to create buildings that are nothing short of extraordinary.
One of Gaudí’s most famous works is the Sagrada Família, a colossal basilica that has been under construction for over a century. Gaudí dedicated the last years of his life to this project, which remains unfinished to this day. The basilica’s soaring spires, intricate facades adorned with colorful mosaics, and organic, tree-like columns are a testament to Gaudí’s unique vision. The building’s interior is equally breathtaking, with a kaleidoscope of stained glass windows casting ethereal light across the space.
Casa Batlló is another remarkable creation by Gaudí. Located in the heart of Barcelona, this residential building showcases the architect’s playful and whimsical style. The facade resembles a dragon, with colorful tiles and undulating shapes evoking the scales and backbone of a mythical creature. Inside, Gaudí’s attention to detail is evident in every corner, from the flowing lines of the staircase to the mesmerizing patterns of the tiles.