Virtuoso Insights - October/November 2008 - (Page 52) gaudí’s vision: casa Batlló’s surreal, skull-shaped balcony coupled with intense color and light. skull-shaped balconies with supporting pillars in the form of bones. The colors and shapes were inspired by marine life and the facade could almost be a cliff of coral, lit by sunlight through the surface of the sea. Visit the interior to appreciate the extent of the design and attention to detail, the use of light to dramatic effect, and the roof terrace, with its swirling chimneys and colored tiles. Possibly the most unusual apartment building in the world, La Pedrera (Passeig de Gràcia 92), is a Postmodernist dream of irregular shapes and angles. The building houses a collection of Renaissance drawings and Modern paintings. Parc Güell was commissioned as a stylish park for the local aristocracy, and became a playground in which Gaudí was able to fulfill some of his wildest and most experimental architectural fantasies. Commanding a panoramic view of the city, the park features stone structures, such as a dragon fountain at its entrance; a stunning terrace supported by twisted pillars; and the pink house in which Gaudí lived from 1906 to 1926, now a museum showcasing furniture he designed, along with portraits, decorations, and drawings. All provide a fascinating glimpse into the life of the man who irrevocably defined the city’s profile that continues to evolve. seeiNg the citY Of PrODigies go – numerous airlines service barcelona from u.s. and european gateways, including american airlines, british airways, lufthansa, and us airways. SEE – local experts made for Spain provide unique, tailor-made tours that focus on the city’s arts scene or any of your other personal passions. visit barcelona’s gothic Quarter; the Roman ruins and the columns of the temple that lie beneath; as well as barcelona’s trendiest enclaves, where the city’s elite shop, eat, and meet — all accompanied by a private guide and driver. or, enjoy a bike tour that takes you alongside the city’s picturesque beaches to the old port, through the Rambla de santa Monica, and past the arco de triunfo to the olympic port. your virtuoso travel advisor will work with Made for spain to create a personalized tour that’s perfect for you. heritage tours private travel offers a 10-day, in-depth immersion in spain’s art and cuisine. beginning in barcelona with a walking tour of the city’s sights, this fully escorted, exclusive excursion includes a visit to gaudí’s architectural wonders, the Museu Picasso and the fundació Joan Miró, and a private cooking lesson and hands-on introduction to the delights of spanish gastronomy. the tour continues to the basque cities of san sebastián and bilbao, as well as guérnica, a town immortalized by Picasso in one of his most monumental paintings. for 2009 pricing and departures, contact your virtuoso travel advisor today. 52 Virtuoso insights
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