Excursion Sagrada familia & casa vicens tour at Barcelona
Cruise line: SilverseaDifficulty:
Discover the magnificent architectural icons of Barcelona during this panoramic, half-day sightseeing excursion to a pair of masterpieces by world-renowned architect Antonio Gaudi.
Barcelona, Gaudi's Sagrada Familia, Modernist Gothic Church
Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 30-minute drive to Sagrada Familia, Gaudì's masterpiece. Sagrada Familia is an iconic symbol of the Barcelona City skyline, a popular landmark for visitors from all over the world and often considered to be among the most extraordinary monuments ever constructed. This magnificent, neo-Gothic church was designed using the great medieval cathedrals as models for reference, and constructed in a Modernist style (the Catalan version of Art Nouveau).
Nativity and Passion Facades, Tour of the Church's Interior, Craftsmen at Work
The project and its realisation was entrusted to renowned architect Antoni Gaudì. Although just over 30 years of age at the time, Gaudì worked on Sagrada Familia for the rest of his life. Having begun in 1882, work still continues today following the plans laid down by its designer; the fact that you can observe one of the masterpieces of world architecture being constructed before your very eyes makes your visit even more fascinating. During your visit, your guide shows you the two completed facades (the Nativity and the Passion), then leads you inside the church, where expert craftsmen continue to work on a masterpiece in constant evolution.
Casa Vicens, Welcome Area, Permanent Collection, Temporary Exhibits, Garden
Next, re-board your coach and proceed for a visit to Casa Vicens. The first masterpiece of Antoni Gaudi, it sowed the seeds of his later works. Built between 1883 and 1885 as a summer house for the Vicens family, this UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases Gaudi's unrivalled talent. On the ground floor, there is an area to welcome visitors. The first and second floors feature spaces displaying the permanent collection focusing on the building, and the temporary exhibits and activities that make up the museum project. The garden and interior décor reflect the original surrounds of Casa Vicens, gardens of that time, and Mediterranean flora and fauna.
Basement, La Capell Store, Living and Dining Areas, Rooftop
The basement, which originally housed the coal cellar under the Catalan vaults, is now home to the La Capell speciality store/bookshop. The main floor, above the entrance and ground floor, housed the spaces for daily use; a central dining room surrounded by an enclosed porch, smoking room and foyer. The Vicens family's more private, intimate rooms are on the first floor; included are two bedrooms, a bath and a sitting room. The rooftop of Casa Vicens is a contemplative space featuring a walkway around all four sides of the pitched roof, with curved terracotta roof tiles to collect the water. At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.
Points of interests
Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Barcelona City, Gaudì's Sagrada Familia, Nativity and Passion Facades, Tour of the Church's Interior
Note
Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.6 miles (about one kilometre), at times over uneven surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and 40 steps at Casa Vicens; a lift is available. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Proper attire is required; no swimwear, tank-tops, etc. are permitted on this tour. Guests must be at least 12 years old to participate on this tour. The tour sequence may vary. Space on this tour is extremely limited; we suggest you book well in advance to avoid disappointment.