Federico Garcia Lorca (The Piano)

FEDERICO GARCIA LORCA (THE PIANO-WRITTEN BY LEAH LOPEZ)

Exposed skin adjusts to the poetic rhythmic flow of ocean waves

two souls; locked in embrace

eyes; incisive, reflecting from the moonlight’s glow

there is no voice, no lost echo

nurtured merely by their internal piano

-artlessly written

so wrapped up in the prosperous night

no thoughts to you or I

and, who, if anyone, has the right to disrupt

…two men; Federico and Dali from their sacred love?

The rhythmic flow of the ocean wave’s increase; trying to deter any following communication...

-reuniting their bodies, their kiss…through determination-

and, just like the ocean wave’s, who tried to demolish

such people wait…to destroy what they detest

one man-Garcia-stood for his rights-reciting words of wisdom, to those who thought alike

Dali grew further apart from Federico

the stigma he felt; resulting in the hands of marriage; a woman who knew nothing

nor cared of his past.

-Garcia-Garica-Garcia-

The blindfold slides down his face

he turns left; he turns right

two men, one at each side

both with blindfolds sitting on their shoulder

4-5 men in-front, all armed with guns

“BANG….BANG….BANG!!!”

All three men fall to the ground

the cool afternoon air sieved through locks of hair

long stems of piercing grass sway

dancing to the sound of a piano, in the dying mind of Garcia…

his eyes open…latching to anything that resulted in light

heavy footsteps pound the ground-Garcia closes his eyes-tight-

“He is still fucking alive” said one of Franco’s men

“There is only one way a queer deserves to die!”

BANG!-A bullet to the head…

two gun shots, drown inside his blood...

...the news spread; just as quick as the crimson flowed, painting the fallen leaves

screams of hysteria; family, friends…Dali

Silence filling the joining atmosphere

no one knowing, what to say…to do!

In the background music beams

from an old piano, the dust soars

dancing amongst the ones left behind

“Garcia…Garcia…Garcia”

we will continue to say your name

and honour your freedom of speech

Readers, about the 3 sections

Readers,

RE: Catalonia: The turn of events:


I wanted to let you in on how Catalonia...' came about. I originally wanted to write about Parc Guell;  the history and the meanings to all the different layers of architecture. After I read many many pages, and asked alot of people about Parc Guell I came across information regarding the demolishing of the walls surrounding Barcelona. I, at the time of my writing on Parc Guell, was naive to this. I did not know this had happened so of course, I wanted to know more about why the walls were up in the first place. Soon as I gained information regarding one event, I was brought into another historical event. I learnt about the Roman Empire, and their approach regarding building roads and so on. So. I sat down, looked at the screen, then looked at all my notes in my notebook and thought...lets go back as far as I can; Phoenician Era.

I wanted to understand the difficulties Catalonia has had to go through, the ups and downs, and glorify them. (I deeply enjoyed my reading upon Ildefons Cerda, but I wanted to save all my research for his deserved individual attention, in which I shall be writing about in the upcoming months.) Antoni Gaudi is a great passion of mine, which you readers will know by now, so the decision to delve deep into Parc Guell, one of his notorious hotspots, was a must.

When I began to write all this, I knew it would take a long time to complete, and it did. I have being ill since last October due to lung and rib problems so some days were harder to focus than others. However, I did not quit. I was not sure on how to place all my writing on my Blog without it looking like a never-ending-novel, I did not want to bore you, the readers, with a 32-page project so, I have sectioned it into 3 sections, allowing you to decide what section, if not all, you wish to read and learn about.

Thank you for your patience. Three months I have focused on this.

 I am currently researching Federico Garcia Lorca, this shall my next post.








 I am interested in learning more on Catalan Identity

Catalonia: The turn of the events (section 1 )

Cataluña: El giro de los acontecimientos.    

Catalunya: El gir dels esdeveniments

“Barcelona; the popularised, cultural Capital City of Catalonia, is now documented as a Global City due to its internal importance in Finance, Media, Entertainment, Arts, Education, Tourism and, for accommodating famous events; such as the Olympics of 1992”

CONTENTS:

Section 1:

• Phoenicians
• Roman Empire
• Visigoths
• The Events between Visigoths and the Independence of Catalan

Section 2:

• Ildefons Cerda and the 1888 World Fair Trade onwards
• Arc de Tricmf
• Catalan Modernisme

Section 3:

• The Lead up to Guell Parc
• Location of Parc Guell
• The Square (Parc Guell)
• The Hipostila Hall (Parc Guell
• The Infamous Stairwell (Parc Guell)
• The Infamous Pavilions (Parc Guell)
• The Austria Gardens (Parc Guell)
• How did Guell’s vision of a Residential Estate,
• for the wealthy end up as Parc Guell?
• Parc Guell’s Fees
• Overall

PHOENICIANS:

The most notorious dates in the History of Catalonia, which stem way before C.300BC, are coordinated into a purpose-filled Timeline. A Timeline is an accessible document that allows us to pinpoint certain events that have happened in the past, presenting us with more knowledge of that era. A Timeline does not consist of separation between the Good and Bad times of society events, it allocates memorable interventions-an interruption to normality or, at least, disrupting a world that has being shaped by our own independence. Catalonia’s History is quite…extensive? Throughout my (ongoing) research on Catalonia, I noticed in between specific dates there wasn’t a time when things were just…stable? There was always something happening, igniting further destruction through Emperors, War, Diseases, Independence and Loss of Independence and so forth. My Historical excursion begins in the Phoenicians era and ends mid 20^th century.

Based on many Historians and visual evidence-such as the archaeological remains, it is believed the Phoenicians-originating from Southern Lebanon, and whom founded the city of Gadir-now known to be Cadiz-were amongst many tribes who took advantage of their protective neighbours, the Assyrians (between 1,500-600 B.C.), to pursue an expanded excursion throughout the Mediterranean and beyond, to extract organic materials, aswell as metal, to trade with the Middle East Market. Their collective destinations were never too far out for them to postpone, even voyaging their way to Cornwall (Southern England). Their most rewarding location was in Southern Spain, after coming across a sufficient supply of Gold, Silver, and Copper and Iron-through the intentional pursuit of Tin. In the conditions, supplied by the Assyrians, Phoenicians were expected to provide Silver, and lots of it. (Silver was particularly important to the Assyrians, given the fact it was towards their currency.) Phoenicians became aware of large deposits of Silver held in the inner core of Rio Tinto; a well-known mining area; north of Huelva. Excavations have allowed archaeologists to analyse the relics and make a definitive evaluation resulting the following information as regards to dates and era. Excavations not only proved the mining in north of Huelva goes back to the early Bronze Age, but also possess enough evidence that on the remains of the Phoenicians settlements, there was a lack of possible weapons; suggesting a peaceful co-existence between themselves and the native tribes.

Phoenicians, using their liable intelligence, introduced Iron to those in the central area; resulting in a valuable commodity for not only sword making, but for agricultural tools, implying substantial help to manual hands. Not only were they manually keen in Iron and fine Metals, they are also responsible for generating Ceramic Art, eventually resulting in the first Potter Wheel-around 700BC.

Due to their extensive work and trade amongst many areas the Phoenicians discovered large consumptions of: Tuna, Mackerel and Sturgeon, which were greeted with eagerly anticipating hands, belonging to the Market Trade(s) of the Eastern Mediterranean.

During their fishing days the Phoenicians came across purple dye that had being subjected from Molluscs-possibly in the moment of attack.

Due to current biological analyses it is now known Molluscs/Snails, in the Eastern Mediterranean, use their secretion for predatory purposes. When the snail comes in to contact with a predator or physically held-antagonised by humans, for example: prodding, then the snail’s instinct is to release the purple dye. It wasn’t long before the idea of “milking” the snails came about, but then it was time consuming, without much result. So, the idea of collecting a large amount of the snails and crushing them completely was a messy combination with the purple dye and the shattered pieces of the snail, however it was more appropriate than milking. Measurements provided evidence in evaluating how much of the dye could be collected, the results were poor. It is said, “Twelve thousand snails of Murex Brandaris yield no more than 1.4g of pure dye, enough to colour only the trim of a single garment.”

So, in overall of their existence the Phoenicians were trading to markets: Purple Dye, Tuna, Mackerel, Sturgeon, Iron, Copper, Silver and, on the basis of finding traces of Phoenician Amphorae, it is a given clue to them also supplying Olive Oil and Wine.

Communications between the Phoenicians and the Assyrians was interrupted when Assyrians lost authority to the Babylonians in 612 BC. However, their influence remained on the grounds of the Carthaginians-whose Capital City-Carthage, had being founded as a Phoenician trading posts from around 800 BC. Once the Phoenicia era became extinct, the Carthaginian Tribe developed their name in the trading presence of the Mediterranean.

A Phoenician Sarcophagus, believed to be found in Cadiz Spain; now in Archaeological museum of Cadiz. The Sarcophagus is thought to have being designed and paid for by a Phoenician merchant, and made in Greece influenced by Egyptians.

ROMAN EMPIRE:

When the Romans settled in Empurias (REF 1)…in the province of Girona, on Catalonia’s soil, (From 281 BC) their main purpose was to prepare for the expansionist threat of their great rivals-the Carthaginians. It did not take them long before they took over Emporium after their victory against the Carthaginians Tribe. The Roman Empire introduced Latin to the region. However, it is within the Catalans rights to reserve their ownership of first-spoken-language within and around the area of Catalonia. Rome transformed the society, encouraging patronage and slavery; this wasn’t as straightforward as it seems, resulting in restricted boundaries. Religion and Culture penetrated and adopted the same religious calendar, and the same temple, praising the same deities, leading to their lost distinct characteristics, including their own language. They (the Romans) succeeded in dividing the territory in to two parts, Modern Cataluña-located in Hispania Citerior, running down the East Coast and, inland the other being called Hispania Ulterior-which is roughly where modern Andalusia is today. The Romans success is noted, in the help of expanding City Barcino-Barcelona and Tarraco-now Tarragona, aswell as setting camp for Veterans, whom found solace from the Austurian Wars. During their reign, they had the capabilities and the intelligence to work effectively together, resulting in the institutional structure of roads, connecting City to Cities. Through their hard graft in farming, they adopted popularity, a great agriculture trade, and people from around the Mediterranean Sea began placing orders, such as Cereals, Grapes and Olives. The Romans had brought the City, not only Roads, Farming, and adoption of a New Language, but some form of independency, and a new strategy, gaining an increase of population to the City. The Romans were under the supremacy of Caesar Augustus, he often came to monitor the region, eventually changing what was Barcelona’s official name-Colonia Julia Augusta Faventia Paterna Barcino to a much shorter version; Barcino. Caesar didn’t want, or, couldn’t see any further potential in the surroundings. Nevertheless, he continued ensuring the security of trade to and from the more, prosperous and welcoming City of Tarragona. The city needed a wall that defined the precinct, and a need for running water; that served the homes, fountains and any public thermal bath(s). The Romans, due to their creative manual hands, gave rise to constructions, which was much appreciated from other citizens, this included: Aqueducts and beautiful reservoirs that guaranteed the gathering and storing of water. They had lead pipes and Bronze valves and pressure deposits, which guaranteed the distribution of the water to Fountains, Homes and, Public Thermal Baths-where the Citizens gathered, usually at the end of festivities. The Romans also opened paved streets, monumental forensics squares: Curia, Juridical Basilicas and grand temples. At the convenient time, when engineering was done on important areas, they built amusement buildings, such as Theatres, Amphitheatres, and Circus Buildings for entertainment. By the end of the 5^thCentury, the Romans leadership had come to an end and the territory that, for a long time belonged to them, became abandoned in the 3^rd Century and eventually disappeared beneath the dunes. (REF2)

The Romans, due to their agriculture prosperity, never declined their own produce, and eating in wealth, Oysters in particularly-appeared on the Roman menu, frequently. Wine, Olive Oil and, Garum-a sort of fish paste, were all produced and consumed in abundance. 

*Reference 1* “Empurias dates back to the early Iron Age, it was first founded in the 6th Century by Ancient Greek traders from Phocaea-Emporion, as it was originally known, who utilised the advantageous location of a valuable natural harbour. Emporion is a practical name, given its commercial purpose; Emporion means Market in Ancient Greek.”

*Reference 2* By the end of the 5th Century, the Romans leadership had come to an end and the territory that, for a long time belonged to them, became abandoned in the 3rd Century and eventually disappeared beneath the dunes. The archaeological site, buried for centuries-until 1908, when excavations were granted, still to this day they are discovering new information. Tourists can admire part of the legacy that is left behind on the Iberian Peninsula by the civilisation of the Greeks and Romans.

During the Phoenicians, Greeks and the Roman Empire; many forms of Art including; sculptures, ceramics, paintings, pottery, constructions and architecture came about. The most outstanding sculptures are:

Lady of Elche: 

The origin of this sculpture was discovered by chance in 1897 at L’ Alcudia, an archaeological site on a private estate about two kilometres south of Valencia, Spain. The bust is believed to be a piece of Iberian sculpture from the 4^th century BC. There are no similar sculptures from that time period that even come close to the high degree of execution which leaves the debate open that the work comes from a much earlier period. There are many replicas of the Lady of Elche. To think of the possible year this was sculptured you have to feel amazed at the talented hands, and the dedication of time and effort, although it is not to everyone’s taste

Goddess of Baza:

The Goddess of Baza is a Phoenician Sculpture, she can be seen sat on a winged throne, and rumoured to have lion-footed legs. She was sculptured to have a blue-painted dove in her left hand. Openings at one side of her throne suggest it was used to deposit cremation ashes.

VISIGOTHS

Due to the sudden incursion of another burst of Germanic Tribes-the Visigoths and Franks, the Roman power was rapidly dispersing. The Franks took control of the Northern Part of Europe-modern day France. The Visigoths controlled the Southern

borders and once their confidence increased in their ability to extract people from ownership of land, aswell as establishing their own Kingdom with its Capital at Toulouse; France, they slowly extended their authority into Hispania, removing the Vandals and Alan Tribes. They also took over the Suevi Kingdom and its Capital City Bracara (modern day Braga) between 584-585 A.D. the province of the Byzantine Empire, South of the Peninsula and the Balearic Islands.

Germanic, or more commonly known as Gothic Tribes, has picked up many enemies and disapprovals of the Gothic presence, Gothic Cathedrals were scorned during the renaissance because they never could compare well with the classical elegance. When a Writer announces a Gothic genre, images of decay and decadence appear in the mind; even in the Oxford and Webber Dictionaries they announce the meaning as barbarous, uncouth and rude. Which, given the fact the Visigoths are deemed as barbarous by the Romans and Greeks, it is easier to understand why. Nevertheless, this did not prevent the Romans from making pacts with them or incorporating them in their imperial armies.

Over time the Visigoths Kingdom collapsed in 711 when the Moors (North African Muslims) invaded Morocco. Within just a few years the Moors gained more people and conquered nearly all of the Peninsula and Southern France. Many Spaniards afraid of the new empire took refuge in the northern mountains and from there; they held bitter resistance against the Muslim Domination. The Moors controlled the Southern two-thirds of Spain for two centuries. Another Muslim Domination took over the Western Side.

The events between Visigoths and the Independence of Catalonia:

If we skip to The Battle of Tours 732 A.D. (Most commonly known by the Battle of Poitiers) which began 10^th October 732 A.D between the Frankish leader; Charles Martel and a massive invading Islamic army led by Emir Abdul Rahman Al Ghafiqi Abd er Raham near the city of Tours, France. During this heated battle the Franks defeated the Islamic Army, resulting in the death of Emir Rahman. Many praise Martel, with the lingering question; had he not won the battle, would the Islamist eventually over ruled, the strong faith in Christianity. The battle is considered by most historians to be of Macro-Historical importance, due to the enormous possibilities of “What ifs?” After the death of Emir, his remaining troops departed and local Visigoths regained independency, although they voluntarily made themselves tributary to the emerging Frankish Kingdom, which resulted in the generic name Marca Hispanic.

The basis of the Catalan Culture is reported to have started in the middle Ages under the domination of the Counts of Barcelona, particularly in Aragon. The Catalans became notorious for maritime power, expanding all the time by trade and conquest. Trade went to Valencia, the Balearic Islands, Sardinia and Sicily.

The main event in 1469, was the marriage of Isabella I of Castile and Ferdinand II of Aragon this united most Christian citizens. In 1492 al-Andalus was finally conquered and the Spanish conquest of the Americans began. Political power and wealth shifted away from the Crown of Aragon towards Castile.

Catalonia retained as much power and law as long as they could however, their power was sieving through their fingers and eventually eroded. Over the next few Centuries, Catalonia was part of many battles, and always on the losing side, as much as they detested and tried to fight back, it was no use. The most significant conflict was the War of the Spanish Succession, which began in the early 18^th Century.

Spain became distracted and divided in a succession war between the Habsburgs and the Bourbons, in gaining the respect the Spanish Throne holds. Immediately opposed to the Bourbon’s traditional trend towards strong centralism, Catalans outwardly declared their hatred and became loyal to the Habsburg Pretender; Charles 3^rd and signed a treaty with England, that in return, promised them some naval support against Philip V-the leader of the Bourbons. Unlucky for Catalonia, Philip V won the votes and he became the holder of the Spanish Throne. For the next thirteen months, Catalans had a Kamikaze resistance, yet their actions were never taken seriously and, with much regret, Barcelona finally surrendered in 1714. It wasn’t long before Philip V made it quite clear there will be repercussions-penalised for their long, drawn out opposition.

Philip V held a conference with the Flemish Military Prosper Verboom, discussing the size of a citadel that Philip V wanted to be built around the city of Barcelona. (A Citadel is described as a fortress, a wall that encloses, or destroys visual contact with the other side. A Citadel is mostly associated with incorporating a castle. The term, Citadel; a Fort, derives from the Latin Language, meaning “city”.) Confirmation was placed into action, resulting in a pentagonal shaped citadel, built near the harbour to dominate the city (1714). Barcelona was now stripped of their independence and was under strict surveillance. The overwhelming feeling of being smothered, perhaps like that of a straightjacket or a character exploited in the infamous book of: 1984 George Orwell. It was made to intimidate the Catalans against repeating their mid 17^th and early 18^th century rebellions against the Spanish Central Government. There was no informal enclosures, where mannerism could be private, kept securely upon their own men. Philip V wanted to destroy the chances of civic expansion and industrial developments. The citadel’s structure consisted of a fronted moat, zigzagged from the western face of the south again to the port meeting the sea at the ancient shipyards; this way Barcelona became an enormous fort in which the military installations covered almost as much space as the civilian buildings. Philip V also disarmed the use of the Catalan Language; this went for Literature; Poets, Singers and Artists. The military complex remained a hated symbol of Castilian rule for a long time. Construction was non-negotiable, prohibited in the so-called firing range; a series of overlapping semicircles with a radius-reportedly to have being 1.25km, there centres at different points in the fortifications. This firing range meant it had created a-no-man’s-land outside the wall. There was no room of planning proposals without making simultaneously an implicit political statement. 

Despite all this, Catalans never belittled their own academic rights and continued to carry out a series of social and economical transformations, within the city’s walls, which in return improved agriculture, commerce and manufacturing. The economic growth derived from the modernisation of the crops, due to their more upbeat attention, radiation and extensive acres. The accumulation of benefits obtained from commerce favoured an incipient industrialisation, which was then principally concentrated in the textile segment.

Transformations in Catalonia over time was spreading like wild fire, people from all around the world was over-hearing the achievement of the Catalan’s latest expressions and their form of mutual respect amongst their own men. The dimensions within the grounds of Catalonia, welcomed more population that, in return, continued to expand new initiatives and infrastructures which backed the new economical necessities. One of the most successful representative of the Barcelona’s working field was in-fact “Junta de Comerc de Barcelona (Barcelona commence Board) which was promoted by traders and industrialists in 1758. In the interior districts, wool spinning and weaving, silk and Calico printing was also highly popular, particularly to the women. In the coastal districts, principally the Maresme, Vineyards and the industries which elaborated wine and brandy were implemented. Due to the markets of northern Europe there was high demand for wine and brandy, where the consumption of these liquors was traditionally high. The exportation to the American colonies also progressively increased and Catalonia’s popularity of trade and incoming culture was very much known around the world by now, much to the annoyance of the Spanish economy.

Despite the changes of Spanish Rulers since 1718, all of them were keen to keep the walls upright, until, finally, there were demolished 1854-1856.

Barcelona and parts of Spain experienced more pain as a French Revolutionary Army was launched in Spain’s direction (1793-1795) with limited success. However, as soon as Napoleon turned his attention to the country in 1808 it was another story. Barcelona suffered along with the rest of the Country until the French were eventually expelled in 1814-Barcelona was the last City in the hands of the French, whom finally left in September.

The Catalan Language and Culture, which at one point was facing obliteration, experienced a rebirth-due to the Romantic movement of the 1830’s. It was a happy and most treasured moments of Poets and Writers. They reunited and ushered in the Catalan Renaissance and popularised the Catalan Language. Politicians embraced the new era; the nationalist movement sprang into mutual love for the artistic Renaissance. Adding to the moving forward, Barcelona was the first Railway Line from Barcelona to Mataró (estimated 30 Kilometres northward and completed in 1848). 

Catalonia was getting its taste of freedom back when the Bourbons lost all power in Spain after the Spanish Revolution of 1868. Nationalist Catalan Parties began to grow and became more involved in Catalan institutions, traditions and its culture. Barcelona’s Wine, Cork and Iron Industries developed from the mid 1830’s onwards. As well as increasing trade, steamships were launched off the slipways. Due to the extensive population, in the 19^thcentury, Barcelona’s wealthy upper-class people, felt strong and independent financially and strong in a political state. The rest of Spain was spiralling into a mental depression, caused by the loss of colonies; Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Philippines.

It wasn’t always happy in the Barcelona city, between 1834-1874 fatal epidemics broke out, reportedly killing around 3% of the population each time the flu broke out. The average life expectancy was decreasing, rapidly. Men, thought to be around 38 years old amongst the rich communities and 19 years old amongst the poor. Although the increase in population ultimately increased the exports across the sea, accommodations were becoming cramped. The population density was reported to have being around 850 inhabitants per hectare; this was-by record, higher than the population of Spain and in Europe. The average population of Paris, for example, was around 400 inhabitants per hectare, if we were to compare. As well as overcrowding, the city was notorious in its hygiene amongst workers and families who stayed at home. Districts voiced their opinions out in the streets, resulting in predictive riots against the governments. Something HAD to be done.

A French visitor once said, after returning from Barcelona: “The people do not fit into Barcelona.” Common sense screamed for the walls to be demolished, to expand the city. The problem laid in the hands of Madrid’s central government, refusing to apply to their needs. Between 1800 and 1900; just fewer than 418,000 people resided in Barcelona’s walls. The citizens of Barcelona, pissed off with the selfish government, decided to go it alone. The supplied shops were flooded with men, on the lookout for tools such as hammers to help bring down the walls. Mutually grieved for the many years they had to live with the walls over-bearing their everyday life, and the constant surveillance of Philip V’s men, they took their anger out, clashing the walls with all their might. Unfortunately, it was not as simple or easy, in-fact it took almost two years to bring down. Once the walls were demolished, the areas were converted into an urban park; the present-day Parc de la Ciutadella, which hosted the World’s fair in 1888. Another transformation is that of the fields on the outskirts of the city into a modern district, the Exiample. Today it is a city in itself, and a very popular tourist attraction, mostly associated with the infamous architects; Antoni Gaudi, Eusebi Guell, Ildefons Cerda and many more that has turned the city around. It comes across as inspirational, especially to artists alike and those who can appreciate how far Barcelona has come to what it used to be. Many people have walked on the grounds of Catalonia, each wanting their own trade, power, wealth, money, possession. Yet despite all this, Catalonia has done nothing but stand up to oncoming superiors. The citizens of Barcelona have always stood for what or, who they believe in, whether they won or not.

If you continue to analyse the timeline you will come across another notorious event. In the beginning of the 20^th century it is fair to say, Barcelona was a hotspot for terrorists, or more commonly known as the French Anarchists, resulting in General strikes from 1901-1902. Another riot that escalated in 1909 went on continuously for a week, leaving behind demolitions of 70 buildings which were burnt by the French Anarchists. Nevertheless, due to reign on Barcelona’s territory, the leader of the anarchists, Francesco Ferrer, was sentenced to death.

Ildefons Cerda: 1888 World Trade Fair (Section 2)

Ildefons Cerda: 1888 World Trade Fair onwards….

Ildefons Cerda

Catalan Modernisme

Ildefons Cerda was originally known as a Catalan Engineer and, a former deputy in the Spanish Parliament. He was talented in a few traits, including Poetry. He was a visionary, which allowed him to see the conclusive Eixample before any draft was laid out. He introduced his plan for the extension of Barcelona, and after much political controversy, the plan went ahead.

(I shall extend the life of Ildefons Cerda in a separate folder.)

The late 19^th Century Barcelona was quite hectic in the proceedings of construction. Not only was the plans of Cerda, being taken into account, the City was also welcoming the architectural structures that were to be placed in the upcoming World Exposition Fair.

The World Exposition Fair initiated in London, in 1855. This became exposed amongst mutually inspired Cities; and together it became a competition that allowed Cities to display their confidence in technological, cultural, architectural and economic growth and continuous industrial potential that, in return, will benefit inhabitants and Tourism.

The chosen location of Citadel Park can be seen as quite intentional.  In order to complete, or at least make a start, they had to demolish the walls that did belong to the military base of supervision. The location represents a symbol of power, instigating their power. Before blueprints were put in place for the 1888 World Exposition, the city-was now in the hands of the Cerda Plan. Ildefons Cerda ordered the city to announce and construct; Housing, Industry, Markets, Social Centres, and much more that would allow the city a make-over. The most popular landmark, in the run up to the World Trade Fair 1888, is named Arc de Tricmf.

Arc de Tricmf 

Arc de Tricmf comes across as bold; confident and head-strong. Standing between 30-40 metres high, the pillars tastefully maintain the arc that is constructed at the end of a pedestrian boulevard. The arc has a purpose, to welcome inhabitants and tourism to the entrance of Citadel Park. With vibrant coloured bricks, it holds its own unique personality.  The arc displays many symbolic statues; at the top, placed in the centre, represents Barcelona-coat of arms, accompanied Lions are both sides. The Lions represent the strength of the City; ironically, the Citadel Park is built on top of the old Military base. Along the top of the arc, twelve allegorical statues of women play a role, reconstructing fame. The overall look, particularly the colours, one might think of Moorish Art. At the side of the arc is a famous statue. The statue is of Christopher Columbus; apparently built in the exact same spot where Columbus landed. The statue of Christopher Columbus is an inspiring sculpture, holding a piece of parchment in his left hand, whilst pointing to the New World with his right.

As you walk through the arc and into the Citadel Park, there is a lot more to cherish and be inspired by. Situated in the Northern corner of the park, opposite the Lake is a Waterfall (Cascada-in Spanish). The Waterfall was first installed in 1881, but that was all it was, a plain waterfall, no sculptures or symbolic details. It was criticized by the press, claiming it was too boring. However, it was then agreed to have a make-over, where it could be recognised at the Universal Exhibition. It took six years to fully redesign and construct it. The architect Josep Fontsere was the main man for the construction, and Gaudi had small parts to construct-at this time he was still new to the scene. Fontsere wanted the Waterfall, to resemble that of the Trevi Fountain; Rome.

(I will go into more detail, covering the facts of the waterfall in a separate write.)

The Lake, which I mentioned previously, is opposite the Waterfall. The Lake attracts many tourists; it is quite popular with the romantics and often turns into a rather convivial place. Small Turtles can be seen on rocks and fish dashing through water. There is also a large vegetation section, which too is quite popular.

Paris, at the time, was notorious for their Urban Planning-receiving world-wide-applause; known at the time as “A Central European City.” Paris had many monuments (The Eiffel Tower 1889) worth seeing. Barcelona analysed Paris’s moves, becoming inspired by the dedication and constant upbringings of new foundations, which supplied them with further monuments and providing Paris with more economy value.

Ildefons Cerda had no forward intentions of extracting, or demolishing previously built apartments/factories/shops but instead, work around them, an overall look; “A grid layout of squares that encloses Barcelona’s old City.”

To compete for the overall award, Barcelona-just like all participants had to design something spectacular, something different. Barcelona, at the time, was not a popular city; it did not bring in many tourists. It needed this chance, to win, to gain the spectators vote of commitment. Construction came at a price, resulting Barcelona to fall into debt, rapidly.

The three selected monuments (Arc de Tricmf, Park Citadel and the Christopher Columbus statue) won the 1888 World Exhibition Fair, with great pride.

After the 1888 World Exhibition Fair, Ildefons Cerda’s Eixample was constructed.

As the Capital of Catalonia, Barcelona was naturally the centre of the Modernisme movement, and it was from this moment that Catalan intellectuals, politicians, writers, poets, architects and artists came to reunite, to gain power that was strong enough to lift the then conservative and rural Catalan culture to match the progressive natures of Europe’s leading countries. Antoni Gaudi, believe it or not, was not the first pre-eminent architect, that title goes to Lluis Domenech I Montaner. (I shall be writing more about him in upcoming blogs). A brief bit of history regarding Lluis-Born in 1850, he grew to be a famous politician and also director of the Barcelona School of Architecture. He engaged in many things throughout his life including politics and journalism. However, he is most notorious for his skills in the field of architecture-resulting in the (now) UNESCO Palau de la Musica and many others-references to be wrote. When Montaner was greeted with the other pre-eminent architects(-Gaudi, Josep Puig I Cadalfach-another one to be written up at a later date-a brief history of him-Born in 1867-the baby of the group-Cadalfach grew up following the designs of Gaudi and Montaner, using it to his advantage in creating his own masterpieces. He designed many buildings-his most popular being the legendary Els Quatre Gats Café (where intellectuals and Bohemians of the day met for drinks and discussions.)  It was quite a formal discussion, to create a unique style that would reflect their Catalan soul and independence. Their finalised “look” is still very much popular with the residents and tourist of Barcelona. Modernisme is described, or at least to me, is the annunciation of freedom. The meaning of Modernisme equals a unique style that holds no boundaries. Infact, it is quite the opposite to other characteristic projected names that include the likes of Art Nouveau, Art Deco and the definition of “Modern” in Today’s terms; contemporary, fitting, influenced with the ever changing designs a Modern approach is like a camouflage-natural. Modernisme is bold, fear-less, it has no boundaries, no limited personalisation. Modernisme is light-it is not weighed down with maximal height or length or choice of colour or m aterials. Modernisme is a friend of Barcelona; it brings in those who crave potential influence, just by the feel of something distinctive that still holds its unique title almost a century later. Not only does Modernisme represent all of the above, it does however, have a particular design that can be identified. The identification of Modernisme is appealing to the eye, opting for a curvaceous theme over the normal straight line. Modernisme architects accumulate a wide variety of organic materials and bond them together in extraordinary botanical shapes that personalises each development. Gaudi showed off his Modernisme talent, all-encompassing bright colours and a strong use of symbolism. Catalan Modernisme overall, is a unique style of architecture that was created by the most influential Catalan architects of that time, and still, to this day, is “Modern” and gifted. However, there are some people who are against the look of Barcelona, with the strong use of “pretentious” and over-crowded without much diversity. Those who like to visit a city, like different dynamics, like a storyboard. Barcelona, I believe, upholds its diversity very well, and yes, to me, it is like a storyboard-just unfinished because it has continuous capabilities of achieving more and more, after all-for centuries Catalonia was like a lock down prison, anything bright was rejected. Once Barcelona was in the hands of Ildefons Cerda, wealthy aristocrats commissioned expensive mansions in the new style-specifying the Central Boulevard; Passieg de Gracia. Modernisme was not assigned to just architecture, the spectrum also belonged to painters, sculptures, craftsmanship, poets, writer’s, singers and many more illustrations. Many of those who were willing to broadcast their ideas, agreed on their mutual influential guidance of Nietzsche. Whatever the opinions Barcelona bring in, it certainly is not boring. The eyes are always entertained, and their mind is always captivated by the constant overflow of difference.

Lead up to Parc Guell (Section 3)

And finally…the lead up to Parc Guell

A brief history of how Urban Planning came about, and the connection to Eusebi Guell:
Sir Ebenezer Howard was the creator of Urban Planning that was initiated in England, 1898. This involved Gardens that were made to be self-sufficient. Inspired by the Utopian Novel; Looking Backward and Henry George’s; Work, Progress and Poverty, Sir Ebenezer Howard published his own book; A Peaceful Path to Real Reform, in 1898, which was then re-released in 1902 as; Garden Cities of Tomorrow. His dream was to build a Garden City that would house 3,000 people on a site of 6,000 acres planned on a concentric pattern, with open spaces for public parks. This was exactly what Eusebi Guell wanted for Barcelona.


So, in order for this to happen, Guell needed land, but not just any land. On Muntanya Pelada, or, most commonly known as; Bald Mountain, there were two adjourning farms-the perfect location for what is now the neighbourhood that surrounds Parc Guell. Guell approached this particular farm land with the intention of buying both properties. However, this was not based on a spontaneous act. Guell purchased the first farm in 1899 and the second adorning farm in 1902, a total of 15 hectares. The geographical land mapped a similar layout to the influential Greek city of Delphi.  Knowing that the Greek city of Delphi was popularised by tons of approaching artists, and, on many occasions, held events in which poets displayed their talent(s). With this in mind, it gave Guell an influential reason to replicate the same form of residential areas in which (the rich) can come together, engage, or due to the designated layout, keep in their own solitude.

“The property was to be developed as a housing project like no other, a privately financed garden suburb.”
-well, that was the plan!

LOCATION:

Muntanya Pelada, or more commonly known as Bare Mountain, was a notorious hotspot for rocky trails and little vegetation, making it the ideal location for a quiet residential site, already included was a large country house, known as the Larrard House (-in 1906 Guell moved into the house). The intention was to take advantage of the fresh air-away from all the Smokey factories, and the peace of being a few miles from the busy City Central. From the highest peak of Parc Guell today, the views over Barcelona are stunning. 60 triangular plots were to be created; reserved for luxurious homes. The results were disappointing to say the least. Perhaps it was the distance, or the expense but only two houses were built, neither by Gaudi. One was intended to be a show house, but the lack of buyers prompted (Count) Eusebi Guell into asking Gaudi to buy-with his savings, the second house, in which he did, resulting in him living with his Father and Niece.


Gaudi lived in this home from 1906 to 1926 and has since being turned into a museum; Casa Museu Gaudi, which allocates some of his personal belongings-such as furniture and flooring, and modern-day-furniture has being placed in recently to revamp it.


Before construction began on Bare Mountain, Gaudi was aware he needed to build reliable and prolonging water supplies to cover the area and its dry land. This involved viaducts and underground cisterns-a waterproof receptacle with a thin layer that allows water to be stored, in most cases this is used in locations or situations where water is scarce. Once the viaducts and cisterns were built and put into place, roads were next; allowing residents to come and go in horse and cart, along the steep slopes, separate footpaths are under the cloisters. This allowed distance, minimising interruption in passing. The roads and paths designed and mould into position by local stone that allows them to camouflage into the scenery. Gaudi’s structures are equivalent to natural vegetation and the process of life’s growths of plants and trees that, in time, lean.  Bird nests have being scattered upon the vaults, bringing the odd green bird, pigeons and sparrows.


A network of viaducts allowed bonding of roads and pathways, made from organic stones that had being taken from the site itself. Gaudi planned for 3 viaducts with a width of 5 metres; designed to snake their way up the mountain. This allows carriages, from the main entrance of Carrer d’ Olot, up to the highest peak of the estate. The viaducts are suspended upon a sloping structure of columns and vaults made from stone. On the upper parts the balustrades are circulated by plots with vegetation. Roads measuring ten metres wide and 3 metres planned for paths and shortcuts with steps and slopes that allow easy access to various plots.


Gaudi was notorious for his passionate affair with nature. When he came to view the site, to analyse and record multiple grounds of brittle rock, and the fielding district, he did not see it as a monotonous project. He was very delighted in the aspect of lightening up the area with nature and religious symbolism; that offers the future residences somewhere serene.


The next on Gaudi’s list was the shared community services. This involved; Porters Lodge, A Reception Area-for when visitors arrive, a chapel and, most importantly the Public Square.



The square:




The Square was already premeditated in the mind of Gaudi’s. The Square’s purpose was to unite people in a civilised manner, a community that offers; love, happiness, a time to cherish and admire the surroundings of Barcelona. It is also a spacious Square that could allow poetry and many artists to declare their work and share amongst the mutual gatherings. The most prolific part of the Square is the snake-like bench that is made from Trencadis, was built in the later stages of construction (1910-1913). Gaudi involved his fellow work men to sit down, and use their bums as models to form the seating planning. Gaudi wanted the seats to be very comfortable and waterproof. The bench is very long, swirling in and out, and very colourful and is always greeted with infatuation and happiness.


The Hipostila Hall:

Once you have walked the great entrance stairwell, you will greet the Hipostila Hall. The Hipostila Hall was originally built to withhold an estate Market that would allow the residence quick access to food and drink. The Hipostila Hall is made up of 86 columns inspired by the Doric Columns originated by Greek architecture. The ceiling is filled with small domes that are made from clay brick, shard of glass and mosaic. It is beautiful to stand underneath and look up, better still, many people lay on the floor and look up, admiring each dome as an individual masterpiece, like each one represents a different story. The columns stand 6 metres high and are slanted deliberately, in order to give the structure a more natural look. All of the 86 columns hold the second main tourist attraction in Parc Guell, The Square. The favourite tourist spot is where the dragon holds its character in pride.

The infamous stairwell


Once the exciting sensation dies down from seeing the two pavilions, tourists immediately flock to the stairwell. The stairwell consists of three flights of eleven steps and one twelve; there is a separation in the middle that is fulfilled with water features. The stairs are divided symmetrically in to two parts by three fountains. Each fountain relates to a symbolic purpose that represents Catalan Nationalism, or the religious interpretations of Guell and Gaudi, and those who mutually feel the same connections. The first fountain represents the world, with a compass by its side, which could coincide with their visionary and trusting directions that gained them the confidence and ability? On the second flight of stairs appears to be the shield of Catalonia with a snake, some say the snake represents medicine. The snakes head is under a Catalan flag- a combination of medicine, healing, along with the strong believe in nationalism. And, now we come to the main attraction of Parc Guell, as it stands today. The dragon, which highly gets confused with a lizard, is filled with mosaic tiles, and broken ceramics, decorated in many vibrant colours. Many people who come to Parc Guell, now, mainly come to see and be photographed alongside the dragon. Not only does it hold its own individuality but it also has a valuable purpose. When the underground reservoirs and water cannot accumulate enough the surplus is expelled through the mouth of the dragon, and down the waterfalls.


The Infamous Pavilions




The same year construction began on Parc Guell (1900), Hansel and Gretel was in production, in Barcelona’s Opera Season, translated into Catalan by Joan Maragall-a known friend of Gaudi’s. So, could the two Pavilions at the entrance of Parc Guell be linked to the story in a metaphoric way, or is this a predictive theory of relevance, or just a plain coincidence? Many of those who have visited Parc Guell, as it stands today, compare the two Pavilions to replicas of giant Gingerbread houses. The main entrance is on the south side of Carrer de Olot. Just before you enter the Parc you will notice the big iron gates. There are guiding walls all around Parc Guell, made up of rustic stone. The wall also displays many ceramic tiles that does not form a routine pattern, but uniquely spread out, randomly. There are two big medallions, one with the word Parc and the second Guell. The Pavilion on the left was originally built to be the Porters Lodge, with a waiting room and a phone booth. The Pavilion on the right was meant to be the Porters residence-hence the label name; Casa del Guarda, but is now used as Barcelona’s History Museum. Both Pavilions are equally decorated with the traditional Trencadis-mosaics made of tile shards, pottery, and broken ceramics.

The Austria Gardens

The Austria Gardens; one of the original plots to be used on the estate, is now a municipal garden fulfilled with plants. The location is very quiet and inspiring to those who, like Gaudi, are a fan of nature and its children. The name Austria came from the donation of trees from Austria in 1977. In the centre of the Austria the views are remarkably stunning and you can see two houses that were built within Guell’s life.

How did Guell’s vision of a Residential Estate for the wealthy end up as Parc Guell?

There are many speculations as to why the Residential Estate never succeeded; the outbreak of World War 1, the many limitations on the lease, too far out from the City, the price of the land, either way the results were inadequate.  The large-scale development was reduced to three plots of land; two were bought by Marti Trias I Domenech-for him and his family. Domenech was a lawyer and a great friend of Gaudi’s. Josep Pardo I Casanovas built the show house which was to promote the estate. Due to its downfall, Guell persuaded Gaudi to buy the show house for him, his father and his niece. Gaudi moved in, in 1906 and lived there till 1926. In 1963 the house was turned into a Gaudi Museum. The museum holds valuables of Gaudi’s and also some items that have recently being placed in there.


Although the initial idea was a failure, the birth of Parc Guell in architectural and current business terms has being very successful.  Barcelona is a popular destination for tourists; Parc Guell and the Sagrada Familia are two of the many places to go and see.


Parc Guell Fees:


Barcelona’s City Council introduced a fee that restricts those who have not paid, the southern side of Parc Guell, since Friday 25th October 2013. The residents, surrounding Parc Guell, complained to the local Council about the constant crowds. Barcelona’s City Council approved the many complaints, resulting in a maximum number of tourists per hour, and a fee to see the Southern Side of Parc Guell. The revenue pays for security and the maintenance.


Once the residents of Barcelona and Tourists were aware of the new fee, many people raced online to pre book their tickets, by midday 1,900 tickets had being sold. 25,000 access cards for the neighbours were sent; this allows them unlimited access and can ask for a card any time. The City Council are expecting to obtain €1 million budget with the entrance fees and the money spent in the Museum/Gift Shop. If you have a mobile phone that allows applications to be stored then Parc Guell offers you a map and audiovisual guides to those who wish to improve their experience with a history output.


You can reserve tickets 3 months in advance, which calculates 20% of the total price of the reservations-the remaining 80% must be paid within 7 days before the date of the visit. However, if you have to cancel your ticket(s) please be aware you have to report these 24 hours before your visit and will only regain 50%.


Please also be aware, in order to keep your time slot you can enter the Parc up to 30 minutes after the starting time. You cannot enter the Parc once the time band has passed.


If you purchase a ticket at the ticket offices or ATMS located at the Parc, the availability of tickets depends on the visitors already in the Parc, up to a maximum limit of 400 people per hour. It makes more sense to either reserve a ticket online or purchase a ticket in advance.

Opening times of Parc Guell:


(AUTUMN-WINTER) 27TH October-23rd April
(8-am-6-00pm)

(SPRING-SUMMER) 24TH March-30Th April
(8-00am-9-00pm)
1st May-26th October
(8-00AM-9-00PM)


DISABLED ACCESS

People who have limited mobility may find walking around Parc Guell quite difficult due to the architectural characteristics of the Parc. There are numerous flights of steps and uneven, stony paths.
In the monumental zone there is access to WI-FI.
There is a restaurant in the Parc aswell as numerous public toilets.

If you are interested in gifts/souvenirs then there is a shop that sells such things as, jewellery, postcards, posters, t-shirts and so forth. There is also a bookshop that specialises in Gaudi and Barcelona.

When the fee came into place many people protested. A letter was sent around to those who opposed the fee, gaining many signatures.

..........................
Here is a copy of the letter:

Para: ........
Mayor of Barcelona, Xavier Trias
The Park Güell, one of the most famous works by the architect Antonio Gaudi and an icon of the city, was given to the city to be used as a park in 1922 by the Güell family. It is renowned for its modernist architecture and was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO in 1984. The Park Güell is one of the city's largest urban green spaces and is a place of leisure for many of the townsfolk who go there for a stroll, some exercise and a breath of fresh air.

It not only forms part of the memory and remembrances of many of the city's residents, Cortazar, Kapuściński, García Márquez and others too, strolled around it and made it immortal: they were able to visit a park that was free and belonged to all.

The park was deliberately allowed to deteriorate over the last decade through cuts in its maintenance budget. The current crop of politicians who are advocating its closure, assert that the park is currently losing money and that the only option is for it to be transferred into private management. Various neighbourhood associations have shown this to be false and how
the data is being manipulated.

At present, the Park Güell is economically self-sufficient (its expenses are covered by two cafés, a museum and a souvenir shop). Closing off its landmark area will not solve the problems related to its deterioration (no plans guaranteeing its economic sustainability under private management
have been submitted) or overcrowding (there will be more people in a smaller space) and responds instead to policies seeking to turn the city into a tourist destination that go beyond the park.

At the "Plataforma Defensem el Park Güell" we insist that there are other ways to handle the deterioration (through the tourist tax which the city has already imposed) and overcrowding (by making arrangements for tour buses to visit in shifts).

At the "Plataforma Defensem el Park Güell" we also wish to avoid discrimination against townspeople who do not reside in one of the seven neighborhoods that are adjacent to the park or who live elsewhere in the metropolitan area. Whereas some people will have a card that will allow them to circulate freely at any time, everyone else (tourists or locals) who wishes to visit the park will have to compete for one of the 100 free tickets that will be made available hourly.

The PARK GÜELL is a work of art, it is part of the cultural heritage of everyone who resides in Barcelona, whether or not they are tourists. Don't close it.

Atentamente,
Tu nombre

....................

However, this was not taken into consideration; the fee still remains to this day.


PRICE: Online and Ticket office prices

General Ticket Online €7 -Ticket Office €8

Children 0-6 years 0 Ticket Office 0

7-12 years €4.90 Ticket Office €5.60
Over 65 €4.90 Ticket Office €5.60
Disabled+
accompanying person €4.90 Ticket Office €5.60

Parc Guell is rich in colour, and there is always something fantastic to see. With the restriction of 400 people per hour, visiting the grounds of Parc Guell can be done a lot quicker, especially with the strict rule of one hour. It helps to know a certain degree of history about Parc Guell before visiting; this allows you to recognise the main attractions and understand its story/purpose. There is now a fee to visit the Southern side of Parc Guell; this area is where Gaudi spent most of his time in constructing.  It is worth seeing, but be aware if you’re not comfortable walking a distance or, your footing is a little unbalanced it is best to avoid the area due to the stony paths and crumbling slopes. For a rest and a get-together, the Square is the perfect place to visit, with the long winding bench over-looking fantastic views of Barcelona. You can really see and feel the inspiration, especially on a warm/hot day. To stand and admire the view and all the architecture that has being bred, is well worth the few Euros.

I have researched all that I have written, from the Phoenicians to present-day Parc Guell, for 3 months. I have spent 9-10 hours reading through hundreds of pages, and writing every-day. I took two or three days off during that time due to a current illness that prevented me to focus 100%. I have fully enjoyed all that I have read and learnt. In future projects I shall be researching further into Ildefons Cerda and the Eixample, and delve as far as I can into Catalan Identity. I have loads of projects that will keep my Blog active for a very long time indeed.
This journey has being emotional, but worth every second.


Enjoy,

If you have any questions then please do not hesitate to ask me, all opinions are welcome.