Colònia Güell is a unique and fascinating destination located just outside of Barcelona. The former textile factory has been converted into a museum, and it offers visitors a glimpse into the history and culture of the region.
A Brief History of Colònia Güell
The history of Colònia Güell dates back to the late 1800s, when the factory was founded by the industrialist Eusebi Güell. Güell wanted to create a worker’s colony that would provide housing, education, and healthcare for the workers of his textile factory. He enlisted the help of the renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, who designed a number of buildings for the colony.
Despite Güell’s best efforts, the colony was never completed, and the factory closed its doors in the early 1900s. However, the buildings and grounds of Colònia Güell have been preserved, and they are now open to the public as a museum.
Highlights of Colònia Güell
The highlights of Colònia Güell include:
- The Gaudí Crypt: A small chapel designed by Gaudí that features twisted columns, colorful mosaics, and a large stained glass window.
- The museum: A collection of photographs, documents, and other artifacts that provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of the factory and its workers.
- Gaudí’s original designs: The museum displays some of Gaudí’s original drawings, plans, and models, giving visitors an idea of how the factory was intended to look.
- Gaudí’s furniture and objects: The museum also has a small collection of Gaudí’s furniture and other objects, providing a unique opportunity to see the designer’s work in a different context.
The Gaudí church with a crypt: A Fascinating Attraction
The Gaudí Crypt is one of the most interesting attractions at Colònia Güell. The small chapel was designed by Gaudí as part of his plan for the worker’s colony, and it showcases his unique and imaginative style. The ceiling is supported by slender columns that twist and turn like tree branches, and the walls are decorated with colorful mosaics and intricate carvings. The crypt also features a large stained glass window that fills the space with soft, diffuse light.
Discover the History of the Factory at the Colònia Güell Museum
Another highlight of Colònia Güell is the museum, which features a collection of photographs, documents, and other artifacts that provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of the factory and its workers. The museum displays a number of Gaudí’s original designs for the factory, as well as a small collection of his furniture and other objects. These exhibits offer a unique opportunity to learn more about Gaudí’s work and the history of the factory.
How to Get to Colònia Güell?
To reach Colònia Güell, you will need to make your way to the town of Santa Coloma de Cervelló, which is located just outside of Barcelona. From the city center, you can take the RENFE R1 train from Barcelona Sants station to Santa Coloma de Cervelló. The journey takes about 30 minutes, and trains run every half hour. From the airport, you can take the L9 Sud metro line from the airport to Zona Universitaria, and then transfer to the R1 train.
Once you arrive in Santa Coloma de Cervelló, you will need to make your way to the Colònia Güell complex. The complex is located just a short walk from the train station, and there is a parking lot next to the museum.
So why you should visit Colònia Güell and Gaudi’s church with a crypt?
Colònia Güell is a unique and fascinating destination that is well worth visiting. Whether you are a fan of Gaudí’s work, or simply interested in the history and culture of Barcelona, this is a must-see