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Getting together
with Gaudà -
Work is the result
of collaboration
and this can only
be based on love
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GaudÃ, the wiseAntoni Gaudà (1852-1926) is one of the most universal architects of Catalonia. Born in Reus (Tarragona), he moved to Barcelona in 1868 to complete his studies. He liked having a walk through La Rambla after his lessons at the School of Architecture. Furthermore, he frequented the now disappeared Café Pelayo, near Plaza de Cataluña. It was part of 'Peña de los sabios' (the Wise men club), also known as 'La Renaixença club'. Playwright Àngel Guimerà or architect LluÃs Domènech i Montaner, among others, used to join this band. That was the reason why Gaudà surprised by its militant anticlericalism. -
Other projectsAfter finishing the Architecture studies, he collaborated in a wide variety of projects. One of them was an armchair (never made) for one of the most important entities of the city: the Ateneo Barcelonés (then located in the same building as Teatro Principal de la Rambla). GaudÃ'd become a partner of the institution. Another failed project were some kiosks for selling flowers commissioned by businessman Enrique Girossi (1878). The point was they were decorated with Andalusian couplets’ lyrics and carnations. It is not surprising that writer Josep Pla, another Rambla lover, described him like “one of most Catalan genius in our history that has ever existed".
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A secret cinemaThere is a cinema among Gaudi's most unknown works. It was an assisgment from his friend LluÃs Graner, who was a painter and a businessman. The project was called 'Sala Mercé' (1904), a name that payed tribute to Barcelona's patron. Gaudi took advantage of the local's dimensions to design a special cave in the basement. It was full of diorames and had stalactites with craters and a cascade. In fact, artist Salvador Dalà would define this as 'edible'. That business would close down to be replaced by the cine Atlántico. Now, this solar is occupied by Hotel Citadines (La Rambla, 122).
