Hospital de Sant Pau- Modernist gem
Barcelona is not short of its own versions of Art Nouveau and Gothic style architecture which became known as Modernism in the late 19th century. The scale and extent of the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau started in 1902 on the medieval site which has been in continuous use since 1401 is something to behold.
After Gaudi, the most famous Catalan architect is Lluis Domenech i Montaner and he shepherded this ambitious project which originally contemplated 48 pavilions on the site but ended up with 18 of which 12 were designed by him.
The idea was to modernise the ancient facilities making them more hygenic and practical while combining patients, doctors and ample space for rest and recovery. Using the "new" materials which were coming into fashion the use of steel, brick, tiles and glass with decorative features both inside and outside the pavillions creates an impressive environment.
The whole is set in extensive grounds with gardens, fountains and paths leading between the various pavilions and provides an ideal place to wander around or sit on a bench in the shade, forgetting you are in central Barcelona.
If I have to spend any time in a hospital, please make sure it is this one!
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