The Hypostyle Room at Park Guell is a masterpiece designed by Antoni Gaudi, and it is located within the monumental zone of the park in Barcelona.
Also known as Sala Hipostila in Catalan, this iconic space features 86 striated pillars inspired by the Doric order of ancient Greek architecture.
Here, the outermost pillars slope in an undulating movement, breaking the rules of the classical framework.
Additionally, in ancient Egypt, a hypostyle room was an enclosed space with a ceiling supported by columns, and it was mainly utilized for religious ceremonies.
This feature in Park Guell emphasizes how Antoni Gaudi, the famous architect, drew inspiration for his designs from ancient civilizations.
Architecture of the Hypostyle Barcelona
The architecture of the Hypostyle Room at Park Guell is truly remarkable.
Designed by Antoni Gaudi himself, this space showcases a blend of organic forms and innovative structural techniques.
The ceiling in the hypostyle room is made of small clay brick domes decorated with original tile-shard mosaics created by one of Gaudi’s assistants, Josep M. Jujol.
All 86 pillars in the room resemble tree bark, with irregular shapes that mimic the natural growth of plants.
Unlike typical building structures, what sets them apart is that some bend and lean in different directions.
These columns support a long horizontal beam on which Park Guell’s well-known arched bench sits.
The bench is made of colorful ceramic tiles and bends to align with the beam’s shape.
Gaudi’s work in the Hypostyle Room is a breathtaking experience, always fascinating viewers with its artistic brilliance.
A visit to this space is a must when exploring Park Güell.
History of Hypostyle Room in Park Guell
The Hypostyle Room in Park Guell holds significant historical and architectural importance.
It was originally intended as a marketplace for the housing development project commissioned by Eusebi Guell.
However, the project was never completed, and the space was repurposed into a covered outdoor gathering area.
Construction of the Hypostyle Room began in 1907 and continued until 1914, when the project was abandoned due to a lack of funds.
Despite remaining unfinished, the space still reflects Gaudi’s distinctive style with its creative pillars, colorful tile work, and natural shapes.
The word “hypostyle” originates from an ancient Greek word “hupostulos,” meaning “supported by columns.”
It refers to the design and structure of the room, which is characterized by a ceiling supported by numerous columns.
This design draws inspiration from ancient Egyptian and classical architecture, showing Gaudi’s fascination with natural forms and innovative structural techniques.
What to see inside Hypostyle Room of the Temple of Abydos
The Hypostyle Room in Park Güell is a special place with a fascinating history.
It’s like a big room with many columns holding up the ceiling.
The room was supposed to be a marketplace, and it has 86 columns that look like they’re from ancient Greek buildings.
Some of the columns are slanted, making the room look cool.
The ceiling has mosaics that show the four seasons and the moon’s cycles.
The room was never used as a marketplace, but it’s still an amazing part of the park.
It’s a great example of the buildings that were popular in Barcelona when the park was built.
The room is also a good example of how Gaudí liked to use nature and natural shapes in his work.
It’s a really special place that shows off Gaudí’s creativity and the park’s history.
The room is also famous for its water recovery system, which collects rainwater from the terrace of the corrugated bench and transfers it to an underground cistern.
The absence of columns in some sections creates spaces that simulate three naves, like a great church.
The ceiling is formed of small domes constructed using the traditional technique of clay bricks decorated with original tile-shard mosaics made by Josep M. Jujol, one of Gaudí’s assistants.
The Hypostyle Room is one of the most beautiful testimonies of Catalan modernism and of Gaudi’s architectural ingenuity.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Hypostyle Room
1. What is the Hypostyle Room in Park Guell?
The Hypostyle Room is a large open space with a roof held up by 86 classical columns.
It was initially intended to be a market where the park’s residents could buy local produce and goods.
2. What is the significance of the Hypostyle Room?
The Hypostyle Room is significant for its innovative design, which combines elements of nature and art in a modern style.
It is a prime example of Gaudí’s creative genius and symbolizes Catalan identity and pride.
3. Is the Hypostyle Room open to the public?
Yes, the Hypostyle Room is open to the public as part of the Park Guell. Visitors can explore the room and admire its architecture as they wander through the park.
4. Are there guided tours available for the Hypostyle Room?
Yes, guided tours of Park Guell, including the Hypostyle Room, are available for visitors who wish to learn more about the history and significance of the site.
These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into Gaudi’s life and work.
5.Can I take photographs inside the Hypostyle Room?
Yes, photography is allowed inside the Hypostyle Room for personal use.
However, flash photography and tripods may be restricted to preserve the space’s integrity and ensure visitors’ safety.
6. What is the purpose of the Hypostyle Room in Park Guell?
The original purpose of the Hypostyle Room in Park Guell was to serve as a market.
However, it has evolved into a cultural and architectural landmark, offering visitors a space to appreciate Gaudi’s innovative design and experience the site’s beauty.
7. What is Hypostyle in architecture?
In architecture, a hypostyle refers to a hall or room filled with columns.
These columns support the structure’s roof or ceiling.
The term “hypostyle” originates from ancient Greek and means “under pillars” or “supported by pillars.”
Hypostyle halls are characterized by their dense arrangement of columns, which create a sense of grandeur and spaciousness.
These features have been used in various cultures and time periods, from ancient Egyptian temples to Islamic mosques and Renaissance churches.
8. Where is the Park Guell Hypostyle located?
The Hypostyle Room is located in Park Guell, on Carmel Hill, in Barcelona, Spain.
Park Guell is a public park designed by the renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí and is known for its unique design elements, colorful mosaic tiles, and lush gardens.
The Hypostyle Room is one of the notable attractions within the park, offering visitors a chance to explore Gaudi’s innovative architectural design and experience the beauty of the space.
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Featured Image: Parkguell.barcelona