Barcelona #8

 I haven't yet mentioned that I have been using the Metro extensively. Like all underground systems anywhere it takes a bit of initial working out - and then you can scoot around (more-or-less) all over the place. A few requirements however, with good mobility being the major one as there are often long hikes between various platforms.

Anyway, from the Sagrada Familia I zipped across to the Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona - housed in an ultra-minimalist building designed by Richard Meier. Some challenging art work, brilliantly hung. How's this for a disturbing piece (titled 'Bride's Chest)...

Then it was off to Parc Guell to continue the Gaudi theme. From the metro station it was a fair hike uphill to reach the park entrance. In the heat hydration is essential. I've never been a great one for water bottles but here it is a life-saver, literally.

Parc Guell, designed by Gaudi, spirals its way uphill and continues the theme of art imitating and embellishing nature. While it didn't exactly endear me any further to Gaudi's decorative impulses it was a delightful place in which to roam and enjoy the flora, the spetacular views and families enjoying themselves. It was easy to get away from the crowds.

Entrance

Views

More views (not Gaudi)

Sagrada Familia

Young tourists

Seats in the sun = empty. Everyone was over the other side in the shade.
But this shows Gaudi's moasic ideas 

There seems to be an element of the macabre in Spanish art - see the graffiti shot for example. I feel as though I'm just at the start of learning much more about the art and culture of this country.