5 unmissable pieces of Spanish architecture, by Alex Rodrigues<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nLocal expertise always wins; see Alex\u2019s top recommendations to target on your Spanish trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Trafalgar](\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/2022\/08\/Alex-B.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Sagrada Familia in Barcelona<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/2022\/07\/la-sagrada-familia-barcelona3-1024x683.jpeg\")
The Sagrada Familia Basilica, a highlight of the best of Barcelona, viewed through surrounding greenery in warm sunlight.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhen you think of Spanish architecture, you think of the Sagrada Familia<\/a> in Barcelona. Designed by Antoni Gaud\u00ed, this is the climax of the Catalan Modernism \u2013 defined by its dynamic curves, rich decoration and colourful mosaics and ceramics. But despite its grand stature, dazzling interior and intricate outer fa\u00e7ades it actually remains an unfinished \u2018work-in-progress\u2019 (since 1883). I find this incredible because in today\u2019s world (where time is money and most buildings are built quickly with straight lines), this wonderful church follows the original projects of Gaud\u00ed closely and his nature theme. For example: the pillars represent trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\nToday the temple has three major fa\u00e7ades: the Nativity Fa\u00e7ade (almost completed with Gaud\u00ed still alive), the Passion Fa\u00e7ade (begun in 1952) and the Glory Fa\u00e7ade (yet to be completed). It will have 18 towers when it is finished: representing 12 apostles, 4 evangelists, the Virgin Mary, and Jesus Christ (which will be 550 feet tall). And the interior will be formed by innovative sloping arborescent columns and vaults based on hyperboloids and paraboloids seeking the optimal shape of the catenary. It is estimated that it will be able to take in its choir 1,500 singers, 700 children and five organs!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
RELATED CONTENT: How to spend 48 hours in Barcelona, Spain<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n2. The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"City](\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/2022\/08\/sciences-1024x682.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe City of Arts and Sciences<\/a> is an architectural, cultural and entertainment complex located in the city of Valencia, Spain. It is a wonderful example of contemporary Spanish architecture built in the old course of the river Turia, which was diverted to the outskirts of the city. Visitors are spoiled for choice here. From kayaking and pedal boating in the surrounding water to roaming the nearby Turia gardens<\/a>: a long park with sports facilities and lush gardens. Admire bronze sculptures outside. Then venture inside to explore the massive opera house, 3D concave cinema and interactive science exhibits.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBut before you go… make time for the l\u2019oceanogr\u00e0fic<\/a>. This is the largest aquarium in Europe, full of 45,000 living creatures and species 500 different species including dolphins, belugas and sea lions. Incredible fun for the family.<\/p>\n\n\n\nGET INSPIRED BY: Best of Spain tour<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Alhambra in Granada<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"An](\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/2022\/08\/A4-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Alhambra<\/a> is a palace and fortress complex located on a rocky hill in Granada, Southern Spain. Combined with the neighbouring Generalife<\/a> (a beautiful garden villa) and the Albaic\u00edn district<\/a>, they constitute a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nicknamed the \u2018The Red Castle\u2019, the Alhambra truly is a sight to behold.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIts mix of Medieval Islamic and Renaissance Christian architecture speaks to its history of Muslim and Christian occupation (at different times). It fortress of enclosed palaces and courtyards housed the monarch of the Nazaries dynasty in the 13th<\/sup> century and the court of the Kingdom of Granada. And like many Muslim works of the time, the interiors are its outstanding attraction. Particularly the marble floors, stucco-work, colourful azulejos (tiles) and elaborate wooden ceilings. Without a doubt, this is the number one attraction to visit in Granada if you love Spanish architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRELATED CONTENT: 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to see in Spain<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Renowned](\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/2022\/08\/city-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLocated in the Basque city of Bilbao, a 15-minute walk from the centre, you cannot miss the <\/span>Guggenheim Museum<\/span><\/a>. One of the most visited sites in Spain and a unique icon of Spanish architecture.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nIt was born from a collaboration of the Basque Institutions and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation to revitalize Bilbao\u2019s urban art and culture scene. Despite doubts from experts during its construction (1992-1997) who questioned how it was possible to use complex shapes with twisting curves, it rose to the challenge and proved many people wrong \u2013 succeeding in its mission. I love that this piece of Spanish architecture challenges all logic of construction and gives us an unusual and impressive beauty on Bilbao\u2019s renovated <\/span>Nervi\u00f3n riverfront<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nVisitors must take time to admire the outside (including the sculptures); before exploring the modern and contemporary art exhibitions inside. As well as the futuristic section and famous car exhibition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
RELATED CONTENT: Brilliant places in Spain for a sunny winter getaway<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n5. Plaza de Espa\u00f1a in Seville<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n![\"Spanish](\"https:\/\/www.trafalgar.com\/real-word\/wp-content\/uploads\/\/2022\/08\/sevilla-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/a> is a square in Parque de Mar\u00eda Luisa, Seville. A stone\u2019s throw from the city centre, this beautiful park was built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. It is a striking example of Regionalism in Architecture, which mixes elements of Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Mud\u00e9jar and Spanish architectural styles.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen you arrive, head off on a gorgeous walk anywhere around this 494,410 square foot semi-circle to gaze at botanical gardens, elegant buildings and the grand fountain in the middle. You will spot 52 painted tile frescoes that reflect Spain\u2019s 52 unique provinces \u2013 each full of exquisite detail. There\u2019s also a chance you\u2019ll stumble across a flamenco show and violinists in action!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Plaza de Espa\u00f1a is must visit in Seville (in southern Spain\u2019s Andalusian region) especially in the morning when it is still cool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n1. Sagrada Familia in Barcelona<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Sagrada Familia Basilica, a highlight of the best of Barcelona, viewed through surrounding greenery in warm sunlight.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhen you think of Spanish architecture, you think of the Sagrada Familia<\/a> in Barcelona. Designed by Antoni Gaud\u00ed, this is the climax of the Catalan Modernism \u2013 defined by its dynamic curves, rich decoration and colourful mosaics and ceramics. But despite its grand stature, dazzling interior and intricate outer fa\u00e7ades it actually remains an unfinished \u2018work-in-progress\u2019 (since 1883). I find this incredible because in today\u2019s world (where time is money and most buildings are built quickly with straight lines), this wonderful church follows the original projects of Gaud\u00ed closely and his nature theme. For example: the pillars represent trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\nToday the temple has three major fa\u00e7ades: the Nativity Fa\u00e7ade (almost completed with Gaud\u00ed still alive), the Passion Fa\u00e7ade (begun in 1952) and the Glory Fa\u00e7ade (yet to be completed). It will have 18 towers when it is finished: representing 12 apostles, 4 evangelists, the Virgin Mary, and Jesus Christ (which will be 550 feet tall). And the interior will be formed by innovative sloping arborescent columns and vaults based on hyperboloids and paraboloids seeking the optimal shape of the catenary. It is estimated that it will be able to take in its choir 1,500 singers, 700 children and five organs!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
RELATED CONTENT: How to spend 48 hours in Barcelona, Spain<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n2. The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe City of Arts and Sciences<\/a> is an architectural, cultural and entertainment complex located in the city of Valencia, Spain. It is a wonderful example of contemporary Spanish architecture built in the old course of the river Turia, which was diverted to the outskirts of the city. Visitors are spoiled for choice here. From kayaking and pedal boating in the surrounding water to roaming the nearby Turia gardens<\/a>: a long park with sports facilities and lush gardens. Admire bronze sculptures outside. Then venture inside to explore the massive opera house, 3D concave cinema and interactive science exhibits.<\/p>\n\n\n\nBut before you go… make time for the l\u2019oceanogr\u00e0fic<\/a>. This is the largest aquarium in Europe, full of 45,000 living creatures and species 500 different species including dolphins, belugas and sea lions. Incredible fun for the family.<\/p>\n\n\n\nGET INSPIRED BY: Best of Spain tour<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n3. Alhambra in Granada<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Alhambra<\/a> is a palace and fortress complex located on a rocky hill in Granada, Southern Spain. Combined with the neighbouring Generalife<\/a> (a beautiful garden villa) and the Albaic\u00edn district<\/a>, they constitute a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nicknamed the \u2018The Red Castle\u2019, the Alhambra truly is a sight to behold.<\/p>\n\n\n\nIts mix of Medieval Islamic and Renaissance Christian architecture speaks to its history of Muslim and Christian occupation (at different times). It fortress of enclosed palaces and courtyards housed the monarch of the Nazaries dynasty in the 13th<\/sup> century and the court of the Kingdom of Granada. And like many Muslim works of the time, the interiors are its outstanding attraction. Particularly the marble floors, stucco-work, colourful azulejos (tiles) and elaborate wooden ceilings. Without a doubt, this is the number one attraction to visit in Granada if you love Spanish architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRELATED CONTENT: 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to see in Spain<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n4. Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nLocated in the Basque city of Bilbao, a 15-minute walk from the centre, you cannot miss the <\/span>Guggenheim Museum<\/span><\/a>. One of the most visited sites in Spain and a unique icon of Spanish architecture.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nIt was born from a collaboration of the Basque Institutions and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation to revitalize Bilbao\u2019s urban art and culture scene. Despite doubts from experts during its construction (1992-1997) who questioned how it was possible to use complex shapes with twisting curves, it rose to the challenge and proved many people wrong \u2013 succeeding in its mission. I love that this piece of Spanish architecture challenges all logic of construction and gives us an unusual and impressive beauty on Bilbao\u2019s renovated <\/span>Nervi\u00f3n riverfront<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nVisitors must take time to admire the outside (including the sculptures); before exploring the modern and contemporary art exhibitions inside. As well as the futuristic section and famous car exhibition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
RELATED CONTENT: Brilliant places in Spain for a sunny winter getaway<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n5. Plaza de Espa\u00f1a in Seville<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nPlaza de Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/a> is a square in Parque de Mar\u00eda Luisa, Seville. A stone\u2019s throw from the city centre, this beautiful park was built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. It is a striking example of Regionalism in Architecture, which mixes elements of Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Mud\u00e9jar and Spanish architectural styles.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\nWhen you arrive, head off on a gorgeous walk anywhere around this 494,410 square foot semi-circle to gaze at botanical gardens, elegant buildings and the grand fountain in the middle. You will spot 52 painted tile frescoes that reflect Spain\u2019s 52 unique provinces \u2013 each full of exquisite detail. There\u2019s also a chance you\u2019ll stumble across a flamenco show and violinists in action!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Plaza de Espa\u00f1a is must visit in Seville (in southern Spain\u2019s Andalusian region) especially in the morning when it is still cool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you think of Spanish architecture, you think of the Sagrada Familia<\/a> in Barcelona. Designed by Antoni Gaud\u00ed, this is the climax of the Catalan Modernism \u2013 defined by its dynamic curves, rich decoration and colourful mosaics and ceramics. But despite its grand stature, dazzling interior and intricate outer fa\u00e7ades it actually remains an unfinished \u2018work-in-progress\u2019 (since 1883). I find this incredible because in today\u2019s world (where time is money and most buildings are built quickly with straight lines), this wonderful church follows the original projects of Gaud\u00ed closely and his nature theme. For example: the pillars represent trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Today the temple has three major fa\u00e7ades: the Nativity Fa\u00e7ade (almost completed with Gaud\u00ed still alive), the Passion Fa\u00e7ade (begun in 1952) and the Glory Fa\u00e7ade (yet to be completed). It will have 18 towers when it is finished: representing 12 apostles, 4 evangelists, the Virgin Mary, and Jesus Christ (which will be 550 feet tall). And the interior will be formed by innovative sloping arborescent columns and vaults based on hyperboloids and paraboloids seeking the optimal shape of the catenary. It is estimated that it will be able to take in its choir 1,500 singers, 700 children and five organs!<\/p>\n\n\n\n RELATED CONTENT: How to spend 48 hours in Barcelona, Spain<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The City of Arts and Sciences<\/a> is an architectural, cultural and entertainment complex located in the city of Valencia, Spain. It is a wonderful example of contemporary Spanish architecture built in the old course of the river Turia, which was diverted to the outskirts of the city. Visitors are spoiled for choice here. From kayaking and pedal boating in the surrounding water to roaming the nearby Turia gardens<\/a>: a long park with sports facilities and lush gardens. Admire bronze sculptures outside. Then venture inside to explore the massive opera house, 3D concave cinema and interactive science exhibits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But before you go… make time for the l\u2019oceanogr\u00e0fic<\/a>. This is the largest aquarium in Europe, full of 45,000 living creatures and species 500 different species including dolphins, belugas and sea lions. Incredible fun for the family.<\/p>\n\n\n\n GET INSPIRED BY: Best of Spain tour<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n The Alhambra<\/a> is a palace and fortress complex located on a rocky hill in Granada, Southern Spain. Combined with the neighbouring Generalife<\/a> (a beautiful garden villa) and the Albaic\u00edn district<\/a>, they constitute a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nicknamed the \u2018The Red Castle\u2019, the Alhambra truly is a sight to behold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Its mix of Medieval Islamic and Renaissance Christian architecture speaks to its history of Muslim and Christian occupation (at different times). It fortress of enclosed palaces and courtyards housed the monarch of the Nazaries dynasty in the 13th<\/sup> century and the court of the Kingdom of Granada. And like many Muslim works of the time, the interiors are its outstanding attraction. Particularly the marble floors, stucco-work, colourful azulejos (tiles) and elaborate wooden ceilings. Without a doubt, this is the number one attraction to visit in Granada if you love Spanish architecture.<\/p>\n\n\n\n RELATED CONTENT: 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to see in Spain<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Located in the Basque city of Bilbao, a 15-minute walk from the centre, you cannot miss the <\/span>Guggenheim Museum<\/span><\/a>. One of the most visited sites in Spain and a unique icon of Spanish architecture.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n It was born from a collaboration of the Basque Institutions and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation to revitalize Bilbao\u2019s urban art and culture scene. Despite doubts from experts during its construction (1992-1997) who questioned how it was possible to use complex shapes with twisting curves, it rose to the challenge and proved many people wrong \u2013 succeeding in its mission. I love that this piece of Spanish architecture challenges all logic of construction and gives us an unusual and impressive beauty on Bilbao\u2019s renovated <\/span>Nervi\u00f3n riverfront<\/span><\/a>.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n Visitors must take time to admire the outside (including the sculptures); before exploring the modern and contemporary art exhibitions inside. As well as the futuristic section and famous car exhibition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n RELATED CONTENT: Brilliant places in Spain for a sunny winter getaway<\/a><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Plaza de Espa\u00f1a<\/span><\/a> is a square in Parque de Mar\u00eda Luisa, Seville. A stone\u2019s throw from the city centre, this beautiful park was built for the Ibero-American Exposition of 1929. It is a striking example of Regionalism in Architecture, which mixes elements of Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Mud\u00e9jar and Spanish architectural styles.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n When you arrive, head off on a gorgeous walk anywhere around this 494,410 square foot semi-circle to gaze at botanical gardens, elegant buildings and the grand fountain in the middle. You will spot 52 painted tile frescoes that reflect Spain\u2019s 52 unique provinces \u2013 each full of exquisite detail. There\u2019s also a chance you\u2019ll stumble across a flamenco show and violinists in action!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Plaza de Espa\u00f1a is must visit in Seville (in southern Spain\u2019s Andalusian region) especially in the morning when it is still cool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n2. The City of Arts and Sciences in Valencia<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n3. Alhambra in Granada<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n4. Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n5. Plaza de Espa\u00f1a in Seville<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n