I learned about a brilliant Spanish artist and architect named Antoni Gaudi a couple of years ago and was "over the moon" excited to see "with my own eyes" his innovative buildings and cathedrals. 

He was a forward thinker and his designs are like nothing I have ever seen.  I love design and architecture and find his design extremely different and interesting.  He was Barcelona's most famous modern artist in the 19th century. 

Casa Batllo is Gaudi's most famous building.  Wealthy businessman Batllo contracted Gaudi to design a home for him.  Gaudi' designed a dynamic structure based on the laws of nature. 

The building is extremely unique and daring and I think that is why I like it so much. 

There are no hard lines, everything has a curve to it.  His columns on the inside of the building and the outside look a bit like bones.

This photo was taken looking up into the bright inner courtyard.  Gaudi' made sure to bring light into his buildings in very ingenious ways.  The beautiful tiles slowly darken from a light baby blue to a deep royal blue at the top floor.  The details in his work are countless. 

The rooftop was the perfect spot to get a closer look at the detail involved in his work. 

I could go on and on but I will spare you.  If you are able to visit this beautiful masterpiece, don't miss Casa Amatller next door designed by architect Josep Puig i Cadalfalch.  It is a mix of Moorish and Gothic inspiration which has the traditional beauty that most of us embrace. 

Barcelona is a city that has many layers.  I am so thankful that I have this opportunity to peel away a few but believe it would take years to truly discover all that this city has to offer.

Today was a day of discovery for me.  The typical Spanish architecture is incredibly pleasing to my eyes but the odd and eccentric side of Spain is surprisingly intoxicating.