David's Diary: Saturday, January 5, 2002

Palau Güell and Three Kings

A trip to Barcelona is not complete without learning about the architect Gaudi. Gaudi (1852-1926) designed many buildings and parks in and around Barcelona and his style is unmistakeable. Rounded forms, tiles, and a modernistic style all make for an interesting visual display whenever you see one of Gaudi's works.

Eusebi Güell, Gaudi's most important patron, was a successfull industrialist. In the late 1880s he commissioned Gaudi to build Palau Güell as a guest wing to his main residence on La Rambla. We were taken on a guided tour (in both Catalan and English) through the whole house.

Gaudi Chimney Pot

We started off in the entrance way which was large enough for horses and carriages. Horses were led down to the basement were the stables were and our tour followed the same route. A rounded ramp led us back into the main part of the house where we saw detailed wooden ceilings, secret hideaways (Güell would listen in on guests to hear what they were saying about him), wrought iron over the windows, and the main hall with it's star-like dome reaching to the roof. By later Gaudi standards, Palau Güell is modest, until you get to the roof. The rooftop does not have a single flat surface and the chimney pots are spectacular. They are all sorts of shapes and covered with tiles and decoration.

Three Kings Arrive

On January 6th every year the Spainish celebrate Three Kings' Day (Epiphany). For Spainish children this event is as big as Christmas as they receive presents, have the day off, and celebrate local festivals. In Barcelona, Three Kings' Day is celebrated by the arrival by ship of the Three Kings.

We walked from the marina long the waterfront to where thousands of people were gathered to watch the Three Kings arrive. The old sailing ship that is part of the Maritime Museum was decorated and lit up as it motored to the waterfront. It was difficult to see over the crowds, but the Three Kings arrived amid dancers and costumes and they proceeded along the waterfront. After speeches, the Three Kings were wisked away in classic motor cars.

We walk along Passeig de Colom which runs parallel to the waterfront and find a vantage point to watch the parade which starts about a half hour after the Three Kings had departed. We were too far away to catch the candy that was thrown, but could hear the bands and see the giant floats. The crowds were ten deep near the parade so we appeciated our high vantage point near the marina. After the excitement, we returned to Dragonsinger, but unlike the Spainards we didn't give the children extra presents. Visiting Palau Güell and watching the Three Kings' Festival has certainly made us feel that we are starting to experience both Barcelona and Spain.