Chasing Gaudí: A Barcelona Art Journey

Vol 27, Issue 19, 7th March 2025

This was my first real Hiihtoloma (skiing holiday) since I moved to Finland three years ago in the winter. While many people enjoy the snow in Lapland, I chose to escape the cold and head to Barcelona – a sunny, historic and vibrant city.

Our trip quickly turned into an art adventure. On the first day, my two sons met their Spanish trumpet master after a warm-up walk in Park Guell. From that moment on, Barcelona became more than just a trip – it became an in-depth exploration of Antoni Gaudí’s world.

Walking through the city streets felt like walking into an open-air museum. We spent almost a full week exploring Gaudí’s masterpieces, and each piece revealed new creative layers. As one expert once said: “Nothing in Gaudí’s work is accidental. Every little detail is carefully thought out and nothing is accidental.”

Seeing his works in person – Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, Park Guell – was simply breathtaking. My eight-year-old son was mesmerized by the children’s room in Casa Milà, and sitting there, it was as if he could feel the presence of children from a hundred years ago. Fantastic windows, surreal ventilation systems, and fluid structures blur the line between architecture and dreams.

And of course, there’s the Sagrada Familia.

Having seen countless pictures and videos, I thought I was prepared, but standing in front of it, I was deeply moved. The towering spires are not only architectural feats, but also expressions of faith. Every inch of the exterior is filled with biblical carvings, drawing us into sacred stories. In that moment, it feels like art, spirit, and ourselves merge into one.

Gaudí’s work is undoubtedly at the heart of Barcelona’s charm. His profound observations of nature, faith, and life shaped his art. As I listened to the audio guide repeatedly emphasize how his designs were inspired by the organic beauty of plants and animals, I realized that true art is more than just personal genius – it stems from a love of the world, keen observation, and unwavering faith.

In addition to art, I also noticed the stark contrast between Finland and Spain. Finland cherishes quiet personal space, while Barcelona is keen on passionate conversations and late-night socializing. We enjoyed the charm of flamenco dancing and live classical guitar and chanting. It was refreshing and memorable to experience two cultures in such a short time in one week.

One day, we took a train to Sitges, a coastal town where the golden sun kissed the sea. Some people strolled along the coast, some enjoyed coffee in the breeze, and some freely embraced the sun – literally.

This trip reminded me that travel is not just about escaping the daily routine, but discovering new perspectives. Whether you seek snow or sunshine, there is always an adventure waiting for you.