L'Eixample by sue_stone
Located north of Placa Catalunya, L'Eixample is the city's commercial and economic heart. It is also home to some very fabulous modernista architecture, most of which is located on or near to the elegant Passeig de Gracia.The main attraction in the area (and possibly in the city itself) is the stunning Gaudi designed basilica, La Sagrada Familia. This immense church is still under construction after more than 100 years! You can take a look inside and see the builders at work.
Another Gaudi designed building is La Pedrera or Casa Mila. If you have the time it is worth a look inside - make sure you pay a visit to the roof to see the giant chimney pots. Close by, you may see the pointed turrets of the Casa de les Punxes, or perhaps the intriguing façade of Casa Comalat. The latter was designed by Salvador Valeri and Gaudi's influence is evident.Just off Passeig de Gracia check out the bizarre looking Fundacio Antoni Tapies, which is a modernista building with what looks like a pile of barbed-wire on its roof. The building is filled with the art of Antoni Tapies, who is known for his experimental works.
Back on Passeig de Gracia, you have three modernista gems all in a row. Casa Batllo is a Gaudi designed residential building - a fabulous place to visit, with probably the most expensive admission charge in town.
Next you have Casa Amatller, which was designed by Puig I Cadafalch. It has Gothic windows and an unusual stepped gable roof. Pop inside the foyer to see the beautiful stained glass ceiling above the stairs.
Last building on the same block is the Casa Lleo Morera which was built in 1905, designed by Domenech I Montaner. It has lots of small, columned balconies on its face, with a domed tower on top.
