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Antonio GaudiFamous Architect
Date of Birth: 25.06.1852
Country:  Spain |
Content:
Introduction
Antoni Placid Guell i Cornet, commonly known as Antoni Gaudi, was a famous architect and the greatest architect of the 20th century. His innovative and unique designs have forever shaped the city of Barcelona. However, during his early years, many questioned whether Gaudi was a genius or simply mad.
Early Life and Education
When Gaudi was a student at the Barcelona University's School of Architecture, his professor struggled to determine whether he was a genius or insane. Gaudi's appearance, often dressed shabbily and covered in blood, led a taxi driver to refuse him a ride to the hospital. This incident would later be remembered. Five days later, on July 12, 1926, a sorrowful procession stretched for kilometers from the Hospital de la Santa Creu to the Sagrada Familia. They were burying a man whom no one knew by face, but whose creations had forever defined the city of Barcelona. They were burying Antoni Gaudi i Cornet, the greatest architect of the 20th century.
Inspiration and Patronage
Gaudi found inspiration in Barcelona, a city that had been influenced by Carthaginians, Romans, Moors, and French, creating a vibrant mix of architectural styles. However, Gaudi was not satisfied with merely drawing from this well of inspiration; he wanted to transform it into something extraordinary. Despite his imaginative ideas, Gaudi struggled to find commissions. It wasn't until he was in his thirties that the Society of the Devotees of Saint Joseph offered him the opportunity to build the Sagrada Familia. However, the crucial moment that allowed Gaudi's dream to become a reality was his encounter with Eusebi Guell. This textile magnate, the wealthiest man in Catalonia, became Gaudi's patron. The textile magnate's house in Barcelona, a true palace designed by Gaudi, was the architect's response to his benefactor.
Architectural Masterpieces
Following this, Gaudi went on to create numerous architectural masterpieces including Park Guell, Casa Batllo, Casa Mila, the school of Saint Teresa, the Miralles and Bellesguard estates, and, most notably, the Sagrada Familia. Gaudi dedicated his life to the construction of the Sagrada Familia, and even after his death, the construction continues to this day. It is said that when the thread runs out, life on earth will cease.
