Every visitor to Barcelona goes to see La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, La Pedrera and Casa Batlló. But did you know that there are many other Gaudí constructions to be found in Barcelona? If you have the time, it’s certainly worth to discover the less-known, but not less impressive works of Gaudí!
In 1884, Güell commissioned his first project to the young Gaudí, who constructed the “Pavellons Güell” for his real estate (Finca Güell) in the village of Sarrià, now a part of the district Les Corts in Barcelona. It consists of two little porter houses and an access gate. The houses are inspired on the Moorish mudéjar style and have the typical mosaic chimneys, but especially the access gate is impressive.
The large dragon, with fierce eyes, large wings and an opened mouth which shows sharp teeth will catch your eye immediately. A part of the iron is just attached to one side of the gate, which was a very progressive technique at that time. The dragon represents the legend of Hercules, who won the fight with this dragon. Another special detail is the shape of the dragon, which corresponds with the position of the stars in the Serpens constellation, because one of the persons in the legend was transformed into a snake as a punishment.
Behind the gate, you can see a little botanic garden, now belonging to the university. A little bit further, you can have a walk in the Jardins de Pedralbes, where you will also find the Fountain of Herculus, constructed by Gaudí as well. The complex has been declared a Monument of National Historic and Artistic Interest in 1969.
You can reach the Finca Güell and Jardins de Pedralbes with the green metro line L3 at stop “Palau Reial”. To discover all secrets of Barcelona in all freedom, follow our blog and stay in one of our apartments. Visit our website to check the availability.
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