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Barcelona is a fortunate city with a natural landscape that allows for a large area of green space within the city, linked by a chain of gardens and parks. This blog post will take you on a delightful journey through the city's history, diversity, modernity, and environmental awareness. Let's dive in and explore the three main green areas: Collserola, Montjuïc and the central parks. I will also explain the four types of gardens and parks that you can find in Barcelona: historical, thematic, forestal and urban. Get ready to discover what makes Barcelona special: historical, thematic, forestal, and urban parks. Finally, we'll take a quick look at the fascinating evolution of public green areas in Barcelona over time. Join us on this friendly and entertaining adventure! The three main green corners of Barcelona Collserola: Barcelona's Largest Natural Park the largest green area in Barcelona, spanning over 8,000 hectares of natural park, offers breathtaking views of the sea and the city skyline. Home to a diverse range of flora, fauna, and cultural heritage, Collserola invites you to explore its signposted paths and trails, whether you prefer hiking, biking, horse riding, or a leisurely stroll. Don't miss the Tibidabo amusement park, Collserola Tower, Carretera de les Aigües, and the Sant Medir hermitage - these highlights are not to be missed! Montjuïc: Exploring the Iconic Mountain of Barcelona another enchanting mountain in Barcelona, boasts iconic spaces like the Olympic Ring, Magic Fountain, Botanical Garden, Castle, and the National Art Museum of Catalonia. It's a nature lover's paradise, offering gardens, parks, viewpoints, and forests. Accessible by cable car, funicular, bus, or a scenic walk, Montjuïc invites you to immerse yourself in its greenery while enjoying stunning views of the city and the sea. Central Parks: Green Oases in the Urban Core Within the heart of Barcelona, the central parks provide a breath of fresh air and a touch of green amidst the urban landscape. Let's explore two famous examples: - Park Güell: One of Gaudí's masterpieces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a whimsical park full of colorful mosaics, organic shapes and artistic structures. You can see the iconic dragon fountain, the serpentine bench, the gingerbread houses and the Sala Hipóstila. - Parc de la Ciutadella: The largest park in the city center, covering over 17 hectares. It was built on the site of a former citadel and hosts the Barcelona Zoo, a lake where you can rent a boat, a giant fountain designed by a young Gaudí and many sculptures and monuments. History and Diversity of Gardens and Parks in Barcelona As we journey through Barcelona's gardens and parks, we encounter four distinct types. Historical Gardens: Reliving Barcelona's Past Historical gardens, often attached to palaces or mansions, carry a rich heritage. Take, for instance, The Historic Botanical garden, located next to the National Art Museum, is a testament to its origins from the 1888 Barcelona World's Fair. This cherished garden, which has retained a small picturesque area, has a unique charm. Located slightly below the main level, there is always a few degrees below the temperature. *Tip: consider this garden the perfect place to unwind between tours of the museum, The Barcelona University Gardens on Plaça Universitat offer a delightful retreat characterized by lush greenery, carefully manicured flower beds and shady paths. This is truly a serene oasis where harmony and tranquility reign. In addition to being a natural attraction, these gardens are of historical importance as they were designed in the early 19th century by the architect Alice Rogent. Careful attention to detail and architectural elements integrated into the landscape add extra charm to the already charming atmosphere of the university building. The gardens boast an impressive collection of plant species, showcasing both native flora and exotic specimens. Some of the lilies in the local pond are breathtaking. *The garden is located on Plaça de Universitat and belongs to the University of Barcelona. But the entrance to the garden is open to everyone. Although I would recommend that you go there after lunch, when the students have mostly already left the building. Thematic Gardens: A Journey Through Diverse Ecosystems These are gardens that have a specific theme or purpose that guides their design and content. They usually showcase plants from different regions or cultures or have educational or artistic value. Some examples are: The Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer Gardens The enchanting gardens of Mossin Cinto Verdaguer are a picturesque botanical oasis located on Montjuic. Here you will discover a rich palette of aquatic plants, which makes it one of the most favorite places among the locals. And the sunsets against the backdrop of the sprawling panorama of stunning Barcelona are simply breathtaking! : ) In my opinion, this is the perfect place for a romantic picnic. The Botanical garden of Barcelona The garden displays plants from different regions similar to Mediterranean climate: Catalonia, California, Chile, South Africa and Australia. By immersing yourself in the thematic sections of the garden, you will gain a deeper understanding of the wonders of nature and the importance of preserving the biodiversity of our planet. But this is not just an exhibition of plants; it is an educational and enlightening experience. The garden has information signs and educational displays to let visitors learn about the unique characteristics of each plant species and the ecological importance of preserving these ecosystems. Tip: great place to visit with kids! Forestal Gardens: Immersed in Natural Beauty These are gardens that resemble natural forests, with native or exotic trees and shrubs that create shade and diversity. They usually have paths, benches and picnic areas for leisure and relaxation. Some examples are: - Parc de la Oreneta: This is a park that covers 17 hectares of land on the slopes of Collserola. It has a pine forest, an oak grove, an orchard and a pond. It also has a miniature railway that runs through the park on weekends and holidays. - Parc del Turó del Putxet: This is a park that occupies a hill in the district of Sarrià-Sant Gervasi. It has a Mediterranean forest with pines, holm oaks, cypresses and palms. It also has a viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the city and the sea. - Parc de la Creueta del Coll: This is a park that was built on the site of an old quarry in the district of Gràcia. It has a large artificial lake that becomes a public swimming pool in summer. It also has a pine forest, a playground and a sculpture by Eduardo Chillida. Urban Gardens: Green Spaces Amidst the City's Bustle These are gardens that are integrated into the urban fabric, often occupying spaces that were previously used for other purposes. They provide freshness and seamlessly blend with the bustling cityscape, creating refreshing pockets of greenery and tranquility. Some examples are: - Parc de l'Estació del Nord: This is a park that was created on the site of an old railway station in the district of Eixample. It has lawns, flower beds, fountains and playgrounds. It also has a sports center and a bus station. - Parc Central de Nou Barris: This is a park that was created on the site of an old rubbish dump in the district of Nou Barris. It has hills, meadows, ponds and bridges. It also has an amphitheater, a skate park and an urban orchard. - Parc de les Glòries Catalanes: This is a park that is being developed on the site of an old industrial area in the district of Sant Martí. It will have gardens, lakes, playgrounds and cultural facilities. It will also cover part of the ring road that crosses the city. Barcelona: A Journey Through the History of Landscape Design Barcelona has been greatly influenced by visionary urban planners and architects who have left their mark on the city's layout, structure and identity. Let's look at some of them: - The Cerda plan: Back in 1860, Ildefons Cerdá, an intelligent civil engineer and former member of the Spanish Parliament, designed the plan of Cerdá. This plan aimed to reform and expand the city using an open and fair grid. Cerdá suggested using blocks of 113.3 meters, which was quite revolutionary for that time. It was then that the question of the ecological situation was first included in planning. - Antoni Gaudí and Park Güell. One of the most famous architects of Barcelona is Antoni Gaudí. You can see his incredible work in many places in the city. Gaudí had a unique approach to architecture. He believed in respecting and understanding nature, not just copying it. His designs were inspired by her logic and form, and he tried to integrate nature into his creations. - Project Superilla: The Superilla project in Barcelona is an innovative urban planning initiative that aims to create a more livable, sustainable and people-friendly city. The word "superilla" means "superblock" in Catalan, and it refers to a group of nine city blocks that are closed to through traffic and transformed into a large pedestrian area with green spaces, playgrounds, bike lanes and social activities. It now includes Carrer Girona, a fantastic addition that makes our favorite area of Hostal Girona at C/Girona, 24, 1º 1ª greener and offers more places to live with a lively and vibrant atmosphere. Barcelona continues to grow and change, and remains a city where history, innovation and a deep connection to nature come together to create a friendly and inspiring atmosphere for everyone. So, put on your walking shoes, embrace the green corners of Barcelona, and let the journey begin! Hey, fabulouse readers! 🌟 Did you enjoy reading this amazing blog post? I really hope so! Now you are walking along the busy streets of Barcelona and you will know exactly where you can relax, where you can take the most beautiful photos, where to go for horseback riding or morning jogging. With our trusted guide, you will be the best Barcelona expert. But hey, we're not done yet. We want to hear your thoughts too! So if you have any comments, suggestions, or even a hilarious joke to share, this is the place to do so. 😄 After all, what is life without fun? So, start typing, dear reader, and remember, sharing is caring and we are all here to enjoy the beauty of Barcelona together. Until next time, happy learning and keep spreading this positive energy! ✨ Sources: Superilla Barcelona Parks and gardens of Barcelona

Introduction Picture yourself in Barcelona in the mid-1850s - a city surrounded by ancient fortified walls, lacking the modern amenities seen in many other European places of the time. The problem was obvious: there was not enough room for everyone. To solve it, a plan arose for the reorganization and expansion of the city. And here comes Ildefonso Cerda, a brave engineer whose ideas still cause debate among architects and urban planners. He was clearly a utopian and a bit of a dreamer, which helped him think beyond the old city walls. He proposed the creation of a completely new charming district called Eixample. In 1867, he wrote his most important work, entitled The General Theory of Urbanization. This book became the guidebook that led Barcelona to the modern wonder it is today. The word "urbanization" took on new meaning thanks to Cerda's creative thinking. His legacy is not just buildings; this is part of the streets of Barcelona. Ildefonso Cerda's ideas changed the appearance of the city, making it lively and special. His vision inspired not only Barcelona, but also city planners around the world. The Utopian City Design by Ildefons Cerda Appreciate the visionary mind of Ildefonso Cerda, who aimed to bridge the traditional gaps between rich and poor neighborhoods. His mission? To cultivate an urban oasis—a city built on principles of equality and justice. Pursuing this utopian dream, Cerda envisioned Barcelona as an ideal garden city, where broad streets and verdant spaces would knit together the tapestry of a harmonious community. Cerda's ingenious plan, though subject to some modifications, retained many of its fundamental principles. The city was neatly divided into equal octagonal blocks, a stroke of brilliance intended to ease movement and encourage interaction. Within each neighborhood, a shared green space blossomed—an enclave for everyone, promising a healthier and friendlier environment. To maintain an architectural symphony, Cerda imposed a cap on house heights, restricting them to 16 meters or four floors (though this was soon violated). His vision extended beyond residential structures, incorporating crucial public spaces such as markets, hospitals, parks, and a church. Each element was meticulously integrated into the urban fabric, contributing to a more inclusive and delightful Barcelona for all its residents. Ildefonso Cerda's ideas weren't confined to urban planning; they embodied a social revolution, imprinted on the very layout of the city. His utopian vision placed society itself at the forefront, transcending mere bricks and mortar. The Legacy of the 1888 Universal Exhibition A grand vision to transform Barcelona began to be realized at the end of the 19th century, spurred by the spectacular World's Fair of 1888. This transformative event left an indelible mark on the city's landscape, influencing the construction of numerous new buildings that changed its urban fabric. Held in a vast area near the Arc de Triomphe (which was the main entrance to the exhibition), the Parc de la Citadel, the zoo and part of what is now France's train station, the exhibition was the turning point that would take Barcelona into a new era of progress and architectural wonders. Inspiring Progress: Shaping the Barcelona of Tomorrow The redesign of the Ciutadella Park, which became the center of the exhibition, became a canvas for the artistic ingenuity of José Fonsera. Using elements of the old military citadel, including the chapel (now a military parish), the governor's palace (converted to the IES Verdaguer Institute of Secondary Education) and the armory (now the seat of honor of the Parliament of Catalonia), Fonsera transformed the site into a testament to the city's evolving identity. The exhibition area featured buildings conceived by the most respected architects of the era. This created fertile ground for the growing modernist architecture, a movement that would go on to define the aesthetic essence of Barcelona. Unfortunately, only a few of these buildings have stood the test of time. Architectural Marvels: Exploring the Heritage of the 1888 Exhibition Notable surviving monuments include the famous Arc de Triomphe by Josep Vilaseca, the Castle of the Three Dragons (originally a café-restaurant, now the Zoological Museum) designed by Luis Domenech I Montaner, the Antonio Rovira y Trias Museum of Geology, the Hivernacle (glass house) designed by Josep Amargos , and The Umbracle (a shade house by Josep Foncere). In addition, there are remains of the “Gallery of Machines” by Adria Casademont I Vidal, which today has been repurposed for zoo services. As we walk through the surviving fragments of the 1888 exhibition, we not only pass through historical landmarks, but also experience the living legacy of a transformative event that paved the way for the Barcelona we value today. The Eiffel Tower Dilemma: A Curious Turn of Events There is an urban historical anecdote that some people want to believe: the French engineer Gustave Eiffel presented his project for the construction of the Eiffel Tower in Barcelona to the World Exhibition organizers, but the Barcelona City Council considered it a strange and expensive building that did not fit into the urban style, and they preferred to build the Arc de Triomphe, in a more classical style. Following the city council of Barcelona's refusal, Eiffel presented his project to those in charge of the World Exhibition in Paris, which took place a year later, in 1889. Enric Sagnier's Architectural Legacy on Girona Street The splendor of the 1888 Universal Exhibition illuminated the fairgrounds and spread far beyond, casting a positive light throughout Barcelona. This transformative wave not only served as a catalyst for long-awaited plans, but also accelerated the development of new infrastructure and services, marking the beginning of an era for the city. At the epicenter of the urban renaissance is Rue Girona, an integral part of the right side of the Eixample district. Girona Street's Golden Square: A Showcase of Modernism Architecture In the delightful collection of buildings gracing the street, one that steals the spotlight is the home of Isabelle Pomar at number 86. This enchanting architectural gem, brought to life between 1904 and 1906 by the imaginative Luis Domènech Montaner, serves as a vivid tribute to the allure of its time. Contributing to the vibrant architectural mosaic is Casa Bure, a splendid creation by the seasoned architect Francisco Berenguer. Nestled at the corner of Aucias Marc and Girona streets, its presence infuses this historic corridor with a distinctive charm. However, another remarkable residence from this era is the Casa Antoni Roger Vidal, the creation of Enric Sagnier Villavecchia. It proudly adorns the intersection of Calle Girona 20 and Calle Auzias Mark 33–35. Showcasing turn-of-the-century eclectic style, this architectural gem is one of Sagnier's early masterpieces. Girona Street, with its collection of architectural wonders, reveals a fascinating story of the city's evolution and the rise of Catalan modernism. Each structure on this historic street is not just a building; it is a chapter in Barcelona's architectural narrative, inviting all who walk its path to become part of its living history. ​ Hostal Girona: Blending Modern Comfort with Traditional Catalan Style Casa Enric Roger Vidal: An Exemplary Modernist Apartment Building Casa Enric Roger Vidal: A Modernist Marvel in the Heart of Girona Street The residence of Enric Roger Vidal, a creation by the Catalan architect Enric Sagnier in 1888, stands as a testament to early Catalan Modernist architecture characterized by its eclectic charm. Girona 24, a modernist apartment building, embodies this spirit with its towering wooden front door that beckons visitors into a grand double-sided marble staircase. Enric Sagnier, a prolific architect in Catalonia, left an indelible mark with numerous structures (only two of which grace Girona Street). His creations, particularly concentrated in Barcelona's right Eixample, belonged to the prosperous bourgeoisie who played a pivotal role in the Catalan economy. The enduring legacy of Casa Enric Roger Vidal not only encapsulates the essence of Modernist architecture but also reflects the opulence of a bygone era, echoing the stories of the city's influential residents. A Glimpse into the Past: The Historic Elevator at Casa Enric Roger Vidal Two levels of the building are occupied by the Hostal Girona. The hotel was created with the intention of providing guests with a place that has personality, history, elegance, and comfort. From the moment you walk into the house, you have a unique chance to experience Barcelona up close.The guest rooms at Hostal Girona are carefully designed to create a space that seamlessly blends modern amenities with the traditional Catalan style. Within Casa Enric Roger Vidal, Hostal Girona occupies two floors, a hotel born from the desire to offer guests a place filled with personality, history, elegance and comfort. Entering this historic house offers a unique opportunity to get closer to the essence of Barcelona. Hostal Girona's rooms have been carefully designed to combine modern comforts with traditional Catalan charm. When you ascend or descend the historic elevator of the Casa Enric Roger Vidal, installed by Enrique Cardellach and Xno (a family company of two brothers, one of whom Felix Cardellach was a prominent figure in the Catalan Renaissance at the beginning of the 20th century), you are transported not only in space, but also in time. Timeless Elegance: Embracing the Finest Catalan Mosaic Floors In our hotel, the floors are not decorated with carpets, but with exquisite Catalan mosaics. Named Mosaico Nolla after the visionary Catalan businessman Miguel Nolla, these geometric patterns first appeared in Valencia in 1860. Through painstaking restoration, we strive to preserve these historic details, ensuring our guests will always enjoy their timeless charm. Each step reflects the grandeur of a bygone era, preserving the essence of difference that Knoll's mosaic has embodied for generations. Whether you're looking for a place to unwind and relax or a place to explore the city, Hostal Girona is the place to be. With its unique blend of modern and traditional, this hotel is sure to provide a memorable stay for all who visit. And the remains of Barcelona's old walls can still be found in the city. All you have to do is look around to feel like a true explorer, discovering the wonders of Barcelona's historical past, from Roman walls to magnificent modernist structures.

"Originality is about going back to the roots." Antonio Gaudi Catalan Modernism: An Expression of the Nation's Cultural Renaissance Origins of Modernisme: A New Art Movement The architectural style Modernisme, also known as Catalan modernism, was a cultural movement in Spain that arose at the end of the nineteenth century and lasted until the beginning of the twentieth, and was one of the most important architectural manifestations of the time. Catalonia acquired its own identity as part of a common phenomenon that emerged throughout Europe (Art Nouveau, Modern Style, Jugendstil, Stile Liberty, Sezessionstil, Style 1900, Style Nouille, and so on). In this vibrant period, Catalan Modernism emerged as an expression of the nation's cultural renaissance, where names like Antonio Gaudí, Lluís Domènech I Montaner, and Josep Puig I Cadafalch forever changed the trajectory of world architecture, with many of their works now listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list." The Rise of Modernisme: A Social, Political and Cultural Movement in Catalunya The desire to transform reality socially is a hallmark of Catalan modernism. Many of the founders of the movement were socialists and patriots, which explains such a large presence of national motifs in architecture. The same can explain the name of the style - Modernisme, the modernization of society by creating a new type of city with a combination of traditional and modern architectural elements. A striking example is Barcelona, a city with numerous architectural masterpieces in a relatively small area. (for example, Passeig de Gracia), but this style has also been adopted by other Catalan cities such as Girona, Tarragona, Reus and Lleida, among many others. Elements of Catalan Modernism Early modernist buildings contain references to Catalan Gothic architecture, such as the use of powerful decorative elements, traditional and innovative elements in construction and decoration (enamel tiles, tiled brickwork or metal structures, cast iron, ceramic bricks). The forms become more sinuous, curved, and organic over time, the use of floral ornaments spreads, and the facades themselves occasionally acquire sinuous forms borrowed from nature. Unsurpassed Masters of Catalan Modernism: Antonio Gaudí, Lluís Domènech i Montaner and Josep Puig i Cadafalch Patronage and Economic Growth Catalan industrial and rural bourgeoisie were the main sponsors of Catalan modernista architecture in the last two decades of the nineteenth century and the first quarter of the twentieth century. The reconstruction of Barcelona and the emergence of the famous Eixample district, which is a true open-air museum of Catalan modernist architecture, have been made possible as a result of economic growth. The Birth of Barcelona's Iconic Eixample District Luis Domènech y Montaner created a truly unique architectural style. His work is notable for its blend of constructive rationalism and ornamentation influenced by Hispano-Arab architecture, as seen in the Palau de la Musica Catalana, the Sant Pau Hospital, and the Instituto Pere Mata en Reus. Josep Puig I Cadafalch was a Catalan architect, politician and historian who worked on numerous restoration projects. One of his most famous works is the restoration of the Amatler House on Paseo de Gracia. It includes elements of the Catalan tradition, as well as Dutch and German Gothic. His most famous are Casa Amatller and Casa Trinxet. The Architectural Legacy of Antonio Gaudi Antonio Gaudí stood out among his contemporaries from the very beginning. He went beyond the mainstream of Modernisme, developing his own style based on the observation of nature and the use of traditional Catalan building traditions. He used geometric shapes that could be adjusted, such as the hyperbolic paraboloid, hyperboloid, helicoid, and conoid. He was looking for new forms of embodiment of the laws of nature in architecture, where the artist does not imitate the creation, but becomes the creator himself. Gaudi was fortunate to meet a man who was not only an admirer of his idea, but also a long-term patron. Eusebi Güell was a son of Joan Güell, a wealthy industrialist, who made his fortune in the Cuban textile industry. When he returned to Barcelona, he established the largest business empire, which included textile mills, cement plants, and machine manufacturing. Eusebi, married the daughter of another local wealthy man, Antonio Lopez. In 1884, he commissioned Gaudi to create a new gate for his father's country estate. Architect designed the famous "Dragon Gate" in 1884, which impressed the customer so much that he commissioned him to build the Güell House (1888), the Güell Wineries (1895-1897), the Catllaras Chalet (1905), and the Güell park (1900–1914). Experiencing Catalan Modernism Barcelona is a city of great architects, but let's be honest... Gaud is the star of the show. His impact on the world history of architecture cannot be overstated. Yes, and it must be stated unequivocally: Barcelona would not be the same without Casa Batllo, Casa Mila and Sagrada Familla. If you enjoy architecture and art and want to see masterpieces of Catalan modernism, Barcelona is the place to go to get your *daily dose* of Gaudí and Modernista awesomeness. Sources antoniogaudi.org enciclopedia.cat portalgaudi.cat casanavas.cat amatller.org