I have always been fascinated by architecture and history; buildings like people tell thousands of stories. In Barcelona, both these things are in plenty. I had the most amazing three days there traipsing through its busy streets with eye-catching Catalan architecture to keep me company.

Barcelona’s lovely land scape owes a lot to one man–Antoni Gaudi, who was inspired by neo-Gothic art, Oriental techniques and is considered the grand master of Catalan modernism. Here are some snap shots of places that created a big impact.

Park Güell, is a UNESCO heritage centre. It  is garden complex with many architectural elements is one of the largest architectural works in south Europe. It has an extension of 17.18 ha (0.1718 km²) and is one of the more modern works by Gaudí.

Sagrada Família is an incomplete, large Roman church. It was Gaudí final project. He became involved in this project in 1883 and transformed it with his architectural and engineering style–combining Gothic and Art Nouveau forms. The Church which is considered an UNESCO heritage site is still being constructed.

Located in the heart of the city, Casa Batlló is considered as one of Gaudí’s masterpieces.It is characterised by intricate facades and creative floors. It has a visceral and skeletal feel to it.

Casa Milà was considered as Gaudi’s boldest work. An innovative piece of architecture; the building has a steel structure, curtain walls and self-supporting façade. Wrought iron balconies and windows gives this place an ethereal charm.

Gaudi was struck and killed by a tram in Barcelona in 1926, leaving his most famous work, the Sagrada Familia church unfinished.Gaudí’s Roman Catholic faith permeated in his work earning him the nickname “God’s Architect.”