Hypostyle Room

Discover the Hypostyle Room in Park Güell, Barcelona. Explore Gaudí's architectural genius, iconic trencadís mosaics, and unique column design. A must-see in Spain.

Overview

Step into the mesmerizing Hypostyle Room, a core element of Antoni Gaudí's iconic Park Güell in Barcelona, Spain. This unique architectural marvel, also known as the Sala Hipostila or the 'Hall of a Hundred Columns,' despite containing 86 distinct columns, was originally conceived as a bustling marketplace for the residential estate Gaudí was designing for his patron, Eusebi Güell. It serves as a grand entrance hall and a crucial structural support, holding up the expansive Plaça de la Natura (Nature Square) above it. As you wander through its columned expanse, you'll immediately sense Gaudí's profound connection to nature and his revolutionary approach to design, creating an immersive experience that blurs the lines between art, architecture, and the natural world.

History & Cultural Background

The Hypostyle Room is an integral part of Park Güell, a visionary project initiated in 1900 by the industrialist Eusebi Güell, who enlisted Antoni Gaudí to create a utopian 'garden city' for Barcelona's affluent families. Construction of the park, including this remarkable room, spanned from 1900 to 1914, with the Hypostyle Room specifically taking shape between 1906 and 1913. Güell's inspiration came from the English garden cities, aiming to combine healthy living with architectural beauty. However, the ambitious housing development ultimately proved unsuccessful in attracting buyers, and after Güell's death, the site was acquired by the city and opened as a public park in 1926. The Hypostyle Room stands as a testament to Gaudí's 'naturalist period,' where his designs moved towards organic forms and innovative structural solutions, drawing deep inspiration from the geometric principles found in nature.

What Makes It Special

What truly sets the Hypostyle Room apart is its masterful blend of functional engineering and breathtaking artistry. The room features 86 striated columns, often described as Doric-inspired, though Gaudí imbued them with his signature organic flair. Some of these columns lean at subtle angles, creating an 'undulating movement' that not only adds visual dynamism but also reinforces their structural role in supporting the massive square above. Look up, and you'll be captivated by the ceiling, a breathtaking canvas of small domes adorned with vibrant 'trencadís' mosaics. These intricate designs, created from broken ceramic tiles, were largely the work of Gaudí's talented assistant, Josep Maria Jujol. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Gaudí's ingenious design also incorporated a sophisticated rainwater collection system: the hollow columns channel water from the Plaça de la Natura down to an underground cistern. This sustainable approach not only managed drainage but also supplied water for the park's gardens and the iconic dragon fountain, showcasing Gaudí's forward-thinking environmental consciousness.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

The Hypostyle Room holds a charming paradox: it's affectionately known as the 'Hall of a Hundred Columns,' yet it actually contains 86 columns. This playful discrepancy is a well-known detail that adds to its mystique. Its original purpose as a market square for the unbuilt residential community offers a fascinating glimpse into Güell and Gaudí's grand, albeit unrealized, vision for a self-sufficient haven. The very act of creating the 'trencadís' mosaics was a craft deeply rooted in Catalan Modernism, where discarded materials were transformed into dazzling art. Josep Maria Jujol, Gaudí's close collaborator, was given considerable artistic freedom in decorating the ceiling, with some mosaic circles reportedly depicting the four seasons and lunar cycles, adding a cosmic dimension to the earthy architecture. Gaudí's profound inspiration from the natural world is evident throughout; visitors often describe the column forest as resembling a cave or a natural grotto, evoking a sense of ancient, organic architecture.

Visitor Perspective

Experiencing the Hypostyle Room is like stepping into a living, breathing piece of art. As you enter, the sheer number of columns and the intricate mosaic ceiling create a sense of wonder and awe. While it can often be bustling with fellow travelers, its vastness still allows for moments of quiet contemplation, letting you appreciate the interplay of light and shadow across the unique surfaces. The room's cool, sheltered environment offers a welcome respite from the Barcelona sun. From here, you can easily ascend to the Plaça de la Natura, directly above, to witness the famous serpentine bench and enjoy panoramic views of the city. To ensure a smooth visit, especially during peak seasons, it's highly recommended to purchase your tickets to Park Güell in advance. The Hypostyle Room is not just a structure; it's a profound architectural statement and an unforgettable highlight of any visit to Gaudí's enchanting Park Güell.