Spain Architecture: The Top Marvels to See

People have inhabited the area we know as Spain today since sometime in the second millennium BC. That’s left Spain with one of the longest histories of continuous building in the world.

In Spain, architecture is a highly respected profession. So there are many architectural masterpieces still standing today–both ancient and new–that attract thousands of tourists to the country.

Read on to find out which buildings to add to your Spanish design travel bucket list.

La Sagrada Familia

La Sagrada Familia by Antoni Gaudí is one of the world’s most iconic buildings. From its wild spires to its intricately detailed finishes, it takes viewers on a journey inside the architect’s creative genius of a mind.

This unrivaled example of Spanish architecture is one of the most visited places in Spain. It’s often under renovation, so try to book your travel around those periods if you want a view of the building unobstructed by scaffolding.

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao

Canadian-American Frank Gehry is probably one of the world’s most famous architects. He’s crafted buildings across the globe and left his mark on Spain, too.

The Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is one of nine museums commissioned by the Guggenheim Foundation. It houses an outstanding international and Spanish artwork collection.

This museum spurred local architects to push the boundaries. Contemporary residential architecture like these Marbella luxury villas for sale is an example.

Toledo Cathedral

The history of the Toledo Cathedral extends way back to the 1200s, though it’s been renovated and upgraded through the centuries.

The building boasts over 750 hand-crafted stained-glass windows, five enormous doors, and a cavernous basilica. Be sure to check out the altarpiece in the Major Chapel, commissioned by Cardinal Cisneros in the late 1400s.

There are only a handful of High Gothic style Spanish buildings left today. So this cathedral is a must-see for anyone interested in that movement or religious architecture.

Hotel Marques de Riscal

Spanish construction has given us some excellent accommodation, like the Hotel Marques de Riscal.

The exterior of this risque hotel features dramatic, undulating steel roofs. It was designed by the one-and-only Frank Gehry, who employed the same methods he used when conceptualizing the Guggenheim Bilbao.

A stay at this five-star hotel will set you back a good chunk of change. If you don’t want to shell out for a bed, book a table at the 1 Michelin starred restaurant inside instead.

Head to Spain for Architecture That Wows

Whether you prefer the modern masterpieces of Frank Gehry or the mystique of buildings crafted by hand by our forebears, Spain architecture has something for you. Sure, you can see all of these buildings online, but there’s nothing quite like stepping inside a brilliantly built structure in real life.

For more exciting travel tips, browse through the other articles on our blog.