Spain is a favourite holiday destination amongst us Brits but, sadly, many of us have yet to tug ourselves away from the lure of the beach to find the treasures it has to offer. But then again, if you are reading this you're probably not out on the pull in Benidorm!
Separate from the heat, the traditional 'English Breakfast Sold Here' signs of the beachfront and the cheap beer, Spain actually offers a myriad of amazing buildings. Its architecture is an eclectic mix of the old and new. Furthermore, you can tell that diversity has also influenced the look of many of the fascinating constructions. From the Roman through to the Renaissance, Christian, European, Arabic, Mediterranean and Northern European: a multitude of disparate ideas and inspirations have shaped some of the most magnificent and wondrous buildings of all time. Did you know that Spain actually has the second-highest UNESCO World Heritage sites, second only to Italy? That's how artistic and full of historical significance is its architecture.
If you want to see some of this architecture at its very best then you really should take a couple of days to explore Barcelona. There's a superb cathedral in Barcelona called La Sagrada Familia, created by the famous Antoni Gaudi from Catalonia. The construction of La Sagrada Familia began back in 1882 and for forty years thereafter, its design dominated Gaudi's life. So grand it is that its still not yet complete. It's expected finale is set for 2026, one whole century after its creator's death. Even in its current, uncompleted state, it is a cathedral of such impeccable magnificence that the most sacrilegious would be moved. Another treasure to behold in the bustling city of Barcelona is the Casa Mila, known as The Quarry (La Pedera). This stunning monument can also be attributed to the hands of Gaudi, who originally created it for a rich couple. Unfortunately, it has required quite a lot of restoration work over the years; however, it has recently been bought back to life by the Caixa Catalunya Foundation and is definitely worth a peak.
Now, you can't talk about Spanish architecture without mentioning the renowned Spanish artist, Salvador Dali. You can have a nose at most of his controversial work in the Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres, Catalonia. You'll be blown away by the zany, madcap interior, not to mention the vault at the centre of the museum, where Dali is in fact buried.
In the North, Bilbao boasts an astounding piece of genius created by the celebrated architect Frank Gehry. The Guggenheim Museum is a building beyond imagination: it is a flawless construct of titanium, glass and limestone which reflects the sparkle of the river flowing alongside it. So dramatic is this creation that it has appeared in music videos, computer games and the Bond film "The World is not Enough". From the ancient to the modern, Spanish architecture is amongst the most distinctive in the world lending a well-deserved sense of pride and passion to its cities and peoples.
If you can't get away to visit the beautiful country itself then you could always visit Home House this month instead. The Restaurant will be offering a Spanish themed night, with a full 3 course Spanish menu including tapas style starters and traditional Spanish paella amongst other offerings! Spanish cuisine is famed for being healthy and is influenced heavily by seafood due to Spain's rich maritime history.
Separate from the heat, the traditional 'English Breakfast Sold Here' signs of the beachfront and the cheap beer, Spain actually offers a myriad of amazing buildings. Its architecture is an eclectic mix of the old and new. Furthermore, you can tell that diversity has also influenced the look of many of the fascinating constructions. From the Roman through to the Renaissance, Christian, European, Arabic, Mediterranean and Northern European: a multitude of disparate ideas and inspirations have shaped some of the most magnificent and wondrous buildings of all time. Did you know that Spain actually has the second-highest UNESCO World Heritage sites, second only to Italy? That's how artistic and full of historical significance is its architecture.
If you want to see some of this architecture at its very best then you really should take a couple of days to explore Barcelona. There's a superb cathedral in Barcelona called La Sagrada Familia, created by the famous Antoni Gaudi from Catalonia. The construction of La Sagrada Familia began back in 1882 and for forty years thereafter, its design dominated Gaudi's life. So grand it is that its still not yet complete. It's expected finale is set for 2026, one whole century after its creator's death. Even in its current, uncompleted state, it is a cathedral of such impeccable magnificence that the most sacrilegious would be moved. Another treasure to behold in the bustling city of Barcelona is the Casa Mila, known as The Quarry (La Pedera). This stunning monument can also be attributed to the hands of Gaudi, who originally created it for a rich couple. Unfortunately, it has required quite a lot of restoration work over the years; however, it has recently been bought back to life by the Caixa Catalunya Foundation and is definitely worth a peak.
Now, you can't talk about Spanish architecture without mentioning the renowned Spanish artist, Salvador Dali. You can have a nose at most of his controversial work in the Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres, Catalonia. You'll be blown away by the zany, madcap interior, not to mention the vault at the centre of the museum, where Dali is in fact buried.
In the North, Bilbao boasts an astounding piece of genius created by the celebrated architect Frank Gehry. The Guggenheim Museum is a building beyond imagination: it is a flawless construct of titanium, glass and limestone which reflects the sparkle of the river flowing alongside it. So dramatic is this creation that it has appeared in music videos, computer games and the Bond film "The World is not Enough". From the ancient to the modern, Spanish architecture is amongst the most distinctive in the world lending a well-deserved sense of pride and passion to its cities and peoples.
If you can't get away to visit the beautiful country itself then you could always visit Home House this month instead. The Restaurant will be offering a Spanish themed night, with a full 3 course Spanish menu including tapas style starters and traditional Spanish paella amongst other offerings! Spanish cuisine is famed for being healthy and is influenced heavily by seafood due to Spain's rich maritime history.
About the Author:
Along with offering fantastic Spanish food in its London restaurant, Home House is one of the top baker street restaurants. Located in the heart of Marylebone, Home House is where to dine in style in the capital, offering a plethora of dining events like Cote de Boeuf Nights, for people from all walks of life.
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