The Gaudí Crypt in Colonia Güell, Barcelona, is the masterpiece of the greatest exponent of Catalan modernist architecture: Antoni Gaudí. An authentic jewel built from 1908 to 1914, and declared a World Heritage Site, in which for the first time he used the innovations that he would later apply to the impressive and iconic Sagrada Familia.
A bit of history about Colonia Güell and the Gaudí Crypt
Colonia Güell was founded in 1890 by businessman Eusebi Güell, who wanted to distance his textile industry from the social conflicts of Barcelona. Güell conceived the colony as a self-sufficient urban nucleus, with housing and services for the workers, and also in a modernist style, commissioning the new constructions to architects such as Gaudí.
It was precisely Gaudí who was asked to design the church. Always inspired by nature, the great architectural genius and leading exponent of Catalan modernism created a sustainable work perfectly integrated with the environment. The original plan was very ambitious, with a church with two naves and a 40-meter dome, but in 1914, when Güell’s sons stopped the financing, only the lower nave had been completed, which is what we know today as the Gaudí Crypt.
What can you do in the Colonia Güell?
The first thing is to visit the Gaudí Crypt. Enter the “church of the twisted columns” by purchasing your tickets and enjoy admiring this unforgettable treasure: from its impressive ceiling to the paraboloid vaults of its entrance portico.
A venue that continues to host the magical Candlelight concerts, opens its doors to those wishing to explore it and also stroll through the largest industrial colony of modernist style in Catalonia. At the Colonia Güell, you can enjoy guided tours and audio guides, discover the permanent exhibition of the Interpretation Center, or visit Gaudí’s Garden, located at the back of the crypt.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Gaudí Crypt?
The Gaudí Crypt should not be confused with Gaudí’s crypt or tomb. The former is located in the aforementioned Colonia Güell, while the latter is in the crypt of the Sagrada Familia and is where the remains of the famous architect rest.
How long is the visit to the Colonia Güell?
If the visit is guided, it lasts approximately 2 hours. If you buy the ticket with audio guide to visit the Colonia Güell, there is no specific time limit and there is no estimate of how long it can last.
When is Park Güell free?
The Forest Zone is free and open to the public at any time. On the other hand, the Monumental Zone only offers free access to Barcelona residents and members of “Gaudir Més” at specific times from 7 am to 9:30 am and from 8 pm to 10 pm.
The Gaudí Crypt is located in Santa Coloma de Cervelló, specifically in the Colonia Güell, one of the most avant-garde industrial neighborhoods of the 19th century. To reach it by public transport from Barcelona, the best options are buses E79, L72 and L76; FGC lines S3, S4, S8 and S9; and metro L8.
Barcelona’s architectural wealth attracts millions of people every year who want to see the city’s most iconic sites. Corners such as the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site or the Royal Artistic Circle of Barcelona, which we can now also admire by candlelight thanks to the Candlelight concert series.