logo
#

Latest news with #CasaBatlló

Our top ‘best of both' destinations in the UK and abroad – with a city AND beach to tick all the boxes
Our top ‘best of both' destinations in the UK and abroad – with a city AND beach to tick all the boxes

The Irish Sun

time14-07-2025

  • The Irish Sun

Our top ‘best of both' destinations in the UK and abroad – with a city AND beach to tick all the boxes

CHOOSING where to go on holiday can be a nightmare when you love city breaks but also enjoy a beach vacation. But there are several places across the world - including in the UK - that offer the thrill of a city and the serenity of a coastal retreat. 21 Places like Barcelona, are great if you love exploring a city and relaxing on the beach Credit: Alamy Here are our top spots across the globe for seeing a city or bustling town, while also getting beach time... Barcelona, Spain For those who love architecture, Barcelona is an absolute must. Antoni Gaudi's Read more on travel inspo For example, Casa Batlló in central Barcelona features a colourful tiled face and on the inside, feels like a stylish funhouse. There is also Park Güell - an expansive park designed by the architect between 1900 and 1914. The The city's Gothic Quarter is also worth seeing and is full of pretty alleys and passageways with an array of independent shops and restaurants to discover. Most read in News Travel Make sure to dive into one of the restaurants here, as I found the tapas here better than back in the city centre. If you then want to do a bit of sunbathing, head to the seafront where you will find My personal favourite is Somorrostro beach, which sits next to the marina s you can watch a number of glamorous boats coming and going whilst you relax. Cyann Fielding, travel reporter Top 5 cheapest European city breaks Brighton, UK There is nothing quite like Brighton anywhere else in the world, let alone the UK. With long stretching Before heading to the seafront, make sure to check out The Lanes - one of the most famous spots in the city. This area is essentially a labyrinth of small alleys and lanes that boast a wealth of hidden squares, shops and jewellers. They date back to the 16th century and locally are known as twittens. 21 Brighton features lots of small alleys dating back to the 16th century full of hidden treasures to explore Credit: Alamy It is well-worth dedicating a decent amount of time to explore The Lanes, as you can find some real treasures in antique shops, independent boutiques and jewellers. when you want to grab a pint, head to The Cricketer Arms on Black Lion Street, which was built around 1545 and is thought to be the Undeniably, Palace Pier is a must too, with a number of After exploring, grab some fish and chips and head to the beach to enjoy the sound of the waves lashing against the pebbles. Cyann Fielding, travel reporter 21 Palace Pier is a must before sitting on Brighton's long beach Credit: Alamy Palma de Mallorca, Spain Palma is one of those places that you think couldn't get any better, and then you turn the corner and you're at the beach. The golden city has a beautiful old town filled with designer shops (of which I like to window shop), ice cream parlours, cafes and restaurants. Then there's the historical cathedral and S'Hort del Rei, which is the lush garden below the Almudaina Palace. And just when you think you've explored enough, you turn the corner to find a busy harbour and The closest one to the city is Platja de Can Pere Antoni which is a long sandy strip and a great spot for a dip. Alice Penwill, travel reporter 21 Palma in Spain, has a beautiful old town Credit: Alamy 21 And then right around the corner there is also a lovely sandy beach Credit: Alamy Bournemouth, UK Beach huts, sand, sea, a fairground and some occasional sun, Bournemouth is your classic UK Everything you need is in one place like candy floss stands, the big Ferris wheel, mini-golf I usually opt to grab a mint chocolate chip ice cream from one of the small trailers on the promenade and take a seat on the sand, where I either gaze out to sea or search for the herd of cliff side goats. Alice Penwill, travel reporter 21 Bournemouth offers everything you'd expect of a seaside resort Credit: Alamy 21 And more with a bustling centre full of shops and restaurants Credit: Alamy Valencia, Spain Playa de la Malvarrosa is a vast swathe of golden sands lapped by Mediterranean waters, but there's so much more. The town and beaches are connected by the stunning Turia Gardens - a former riverbed turned green park that snakes between the two and is ideal for strolling or cycling . The gardens are also home to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences with its aquarium, museums and opera house. The gothic cathedral in the Old Town houses what many believe is the Holy Grail - the cup from which Jesus drank at the Last Supper. Foodies will adore the Central Market (Mercado Central) set within a stunning Art Deco building and one of Europe's oldest and largest functioning markets. For a panoramic city view, climb the Micalet Tower and after dark, head to the Ruzafa neighbourhood, known for its cool cafes and restaurants and bohemian character. Nearby is the Albufera Natural Park, Spain's largest freshwater lagoon and near the rice paddies that provide the main ingredient for the city's legendary paella dish. Lisa Minot, Head of Travel 21 In Valencia, the town and beaches are connected by the stunning Turia Gardens Credit: Alamy 21 Playa de la Malvarrosa features a vast swathe of golden sands lapped by Mediterranean waters Credit: Alamy Hastings, UK Hastings may have been down-at-heel and outshone by its brighter, glitzier neighbour Brighton in years gone by but there's a huge amount of charm to this Just like The historic Old Town - a charming maze of narrow streets and timber-framed houses - is at the heart of the revival with independent boutiques, antique shops and of course, those artisan coffee shops sitting alongside traditional pubs. The town's burgeoning food and drink scene has something for everyone from the historic Stag Inn in the Old Town to trendy new start-ups in little sister St Leonards. Pelham Beach offers classic seaside amusements and is really family-friendly but for those seeking a little peace and quiet, the shingle beaches towards St Leonards are perfect. Its historic pier was destroyed by a devastating fire in 2010 but a multi-million pound restoration project saw it rise from the ashes, with the new design even winning the RIBA Stirling Prize for architecture in 2017. The town now offers a combination of old and new - from Hastings Fishermen's Museum providing a glimpse into its maritime past to the Hastings Contemporary art gallery with its impressive collection of modern British art. Lisa Minot, Head of Travel 21 Hastings has a historic Old Town with a charming maze of narrow streets and timber-framed houses Credit: Alamy 21 But also boasts Pelham Beach with classic seaside amusements and is really family-friendly Credit: Alamy Sydney, Australia Canberra may be Australia's capital city, but Sydney is its beating heart - or at least in my opinion , after spending several months working there in my early twenties. It has a culturally diverse personality that's on par with London , New York or Paris, which you'll find in its vast restaurant scene or impressive entertainment (I implore you to find a music venue with a better view than that of the What puts it in another league to the destinations mentioned above, though, is its 50 or so miles of unspoilt coastline and jaw-dropping beaches that are frequently named among the best in the world. Each one attracts a different crowd. Bondi, is undoubtedly the most famous, loved for its energetic surfer vibe and laidback brunch spots looking out towards crashing waves. 21 Across the globe, Sydney is home to many incredible spots including the Opera House Credit: Alamy You won't find a Bondi dude hanging out at Manly, however. This beach, north of the main city, offers two kilometres of sand overlooking foamy teal waters. Milk Beach, a teeny shore backed by craggy rocks, is in a quieter patch and attracts more of a local crowd, however my favourite has to be Brontë. The grass-backed shores sit just south of Bondi. There's no end-of-the-weekend scaries here, thanks to weekly Sunday Sips sessions at the Surf Life Saving Club with live music and sausages being sizzled on the barbie . Sophie Swietochowski, assistant travel editor 21 The city also has several beaches including Bondi - arguably the most famous Credit: Alamy Lisbon, Portugal Portugal is spoilt for choice when it comes to seaside cities, but Lisbon is up there among my favourites across the whole of Europe, thanks to its walkability, fantastic food and stunning buildings. Nos Alive, the city's best-loved music festival, regularly features headliners to rival Glastonbury's - this summer , Olivia Rodrigo, Muse and Nine Inch Nails were all on the bill . I went a few summers ago to see Radiohead and spent the days mooching on the beach or filling up on Portuguese grub, before heading to the concert at nighttime. And there was plenty of food to fill up on... my favourites include Pastels De Nata at the Confeitaria Nacional shop at Praça da Figueira and the indoor For something a bit fancier, there's the Seen Sky bar at the Hotel Tivoli, which arguably has the best views over the city, with live DJs and Finish that off with some fantastic nightlife in the Barrio Alto, a 15th century warren of streets that come alive in the evenings as locals head for drinks at the many bars. Work off your hangover the following day with a trip to one of the city's many nearby beaches - whether you're looking for picturesque coves like Praia dos Galapinhos or surfing at Praia de Carcavelos, there is something for everyone and many can be reached by train. Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel - Digital 21 Over in Lisbon in Portugal, visitors can enjoy music festivals in the streets Credit: Alamy 21 But also picturesque beaches with hidden coves Credit: Alamy Edinburgh, Scotland Edinburgh is one of my favourite UK cities. Whether it's a chance to catch some of the UK's best comedians at the Among my favourite places to eat are The Wedgwood restaurant, offering fancy food in unpretentious surroundings and Stockbridge Market - a For sampling some of the country's best gins, head to the Edinburgh Gin factory, where you can even create your own custom-made gin in their bespoke lab. If you're looking for a spot of culture, then Edinburgh castle is obviously a must, as is the Real Mary King's Close which takes visitors through the old streets of Edinburgh that haven't changed since the 17th century. And then, the beaches. I always make sure to head out to one of the city's many beaches when I visit - admittedly more for a bracing walk than a paddle and sunbathe. Portobello Beach is a lovely the view . Caroline McGuire, Head of Travel - Digital 21 Edinburgh is bursting with things to do including visiting a historic castle or even climbing an extinct volcano Credit: Alamy 21 Then there is also Portobello Beach - a lovely sandy beach with a promenade Credit: Alamy Los Angeles, USA The infamous sunset over Santa Monica pier and cycle path to Venice Beach are equally as famous as the For me, L.A. is the ideal holiday destination if you want to pretend you've swapped life at home for a super glossy A-List lifestyle. There is so much to do in Los Angeles, absolutely everyone will find something they enjoy. If you love museums and galleries, you may be surprised to discover that Los Angeles has more museums than any other city in the world. From the Grammy Museum to the Getty, you are spoilt for choice. Of course, Hollywood is known for its star-studded history and movie studios. On the 21 Los Angeles is certainly a huge and sprawling city with many famous attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame Credit: Alamy Studio and get your thrills on rides and attractions themed around your favourite films at For me, the best thing about Los Angeles is the enviable Head to West Hollywood for shopping and lunch at Mamie Kitchen. Grab an iced coffee from Or Bar Coffee on Santa Monica BLVD, before heading out to the beach. On Santa Monica beach you can grab a deckchair on the sand, stroll the beach path past the outdoor gym and famous pier, or rent bikes and take on the whole 26-miles from Malibu to Torrance. Just remember you have to come back… I tend to go as far as Abbott Kinney Blvd and stop for boutique and vintage shopping, excellent restaurants like Great White Cafe and atmospheric dive bars by night. At Hinano Cafe, drinks are cheap and you'll rub shoulders with bikers, students, tourists and city guys stopping for a cold beer on the way home. Helen Wright, travel writer 21 Then towards the ocean, you'll find glorious beaches like Santa Monica beach Credit: Alamy Blackpool, UK A nation's favourite, this northern beach town has a hearty mix of British seaside history, iconic architecture, All of this is perfectly set along a seven-mile-long golden sandy beach. Start the day with pancakes at HIVE café on Church Street, before a little potter around the quirky shops and vintage emporiums. I always take a relaxed ride on a vintage tram along the seafront from the It's like going back in time. If you're looking for a budget day at the beach, grab a spot on the sand and paddle in the gentle water before the tide goes too far out. Those who want to explore a bit more, Blackpool has some iconic buildings, including the Blackpool Tower and Winter Gardens, that celebrate the golden age of Brit beach life. 21 Blackpool has a hearty mix of British seaside history, iconic architecture, lively nightlife and its own waterfront theme park Credit: Alamy The North Pier is the more chilled-out of the two piers on Blackpool seafront. For a more serene day in the 'pool, pick up a £2 Mr Whippy and wander along the pier above the waves. The Central Pier is my favourite, with But the best attraction is the Steeplechase, where you can race your mates on mechanical horses. I have been riding this one since I was tall enough to get on. There is no better time to check out Blackpool than during the Blackpool Illuminations festival. The whole city is lit up with a sea of rainbow fairy lights and it's beautiful. Helen Wright, travel writer Very affordable beach city just four hours from the UK WHEN it comes to Agadir, the city is just under four hours from the UK, reports As Morocco's largest seaside resort, it has huge stretches of beaches with some popular with surfers. Along with 300 days of sunshine, you can expect high temperatures even in winter, reaching highs of 25C. It is affordable too - a study by Which? last year found Agadir to be one of the cheapest for package holidays. Popular attractions include Souk El Had, one of the largest markets in Africa, as well as the many hammans in the city for an authentic Moroccan spa experience. Seven night, all-inclusive breaks were on sale for as little as £300 at four-star resorts. Otherwise the cheapest flights are with Ryanair, starting from £19.99, or Loveholidays have an all-inclusive week-long break from £299. There is also an Plus, the 21 And you can't miss the two piers and beach - where you can also grab a Mr Whippy for £2 Credit: Alamy

Step into Lionel Messi's mind at this free immersive exhibit in NYC
Step into Lionel Messi's mind at this free immersive exhibit in NYC

Time Out

time11-07-2025

  • Entertainment
  • Time Out

Step into Lionel Messi's mind at this free immersive exhibit in NYC

Step into the memories of iconic football player Lionel Messi—literally. The famous digital artist Refik Anadol has teamed up with Messi and the non-profit UNICEF to create his latest work, " Living Memory: Messi-A Goal in Life," a fully immersive experience showcasing the moment of Messi's (and football's) most iconic moment—his header in the 2009 UEFA Champions League Final. The exhibit is presented through a Christie's sale that will be open for bidding July 8 to 22, with the free immersive experience at Christie's New York in Rockefeller Center July 12 to 22. Tickets are available on-site at Christie's each day, while supplies last. This unprecedented artwork from Anadol isn't simply a visual experience, but a multi-sensory memory for the audience and Messi. To create the installation, Anadol used data-driven artificial intelligence and open-source motion-tracking framework to map 17 points of Messi's body to reconstruct his body and expressions. Layered with biometric voice data, breathing rhythms and heartbeats, the tone and tempo is set for connecting with Messi in revisiting the goal. The experience is an eight-minute long, captivating "memory temple" according to Anadol. "This isn't about nostalgia," Anadol said in a press release, as the reason for creating this art is to relive the depth of that split-second moment with Messi and to feel what the crowd and the world felt. Anadol has figured out how to combine art, technology and human emotions using this AI Data Sculpture. As for the auction, proceeds will benefit nonprofits such as Miami CF Foundation's global partnership UNICEF, which supports quality education programs in countries across Latin America and the Caribbean. The opening bid is currently set at $1.5 million. The highest bidder for the artwork will also win a meet-and-greet with Messi himself. In the past, Anadol's art has exceeded expectations in the contemporary art auction world, specifically during 2022 when $1.4 million was raised for "Living Architecture: Casa Batlló." "It's an honor to join forces with the Inter Miami Foundation for a good cause—I feel privileged to be able to do so," Messi said in a press release. "This project means a lot to me, not only because it recalls a special moment in my career, but also because, thanks to such a unique artist like Refik, it can help improve the lives of others who truly need it."

PAUL Opens First Spanish Bakery in Barcelona's Iconic Rambla de Catalunya
PAUL Opens First Spanish Bakery in Barcelona's Iconic Rambla de Catalunya

Web Release

time11-06-2025

  • Business
  • Web Release

PAUL Opens First Spanish Bakery in Barcelona's Iconic Rambla de Catalunya

Scope Investment proudly announces the opening of the first PAUL bakery and café in Spain, bringing the charm and craftsmanship of the iconic French brand to the heart of Barcelona. Located at Rambla de Catalunya 29, the new venue sits just steps away from Gaudí landmarks such as Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, and moments from the elegance of Passeig de Gràcia—Barcelona's most prestigious shopping avenue. Spanning 80 square metres, the light-filled café features a one-floor interior and a welcoming outdoor terrace with seating for 40 guests. Designed as a cosy neighbourhood spot and an urban escape for locals, professionals and tourists alike, the new PAUL store blends heritage baking with contemporary flair in one of the city's most vibrant districts. The menu celebrates French culinary traditions with a selection of freshly baked baguettes, buttery croissants, and an indulgent variety of pastries, from almond-chocolate croissants to caramel madeleines. Guests can also enjoy savoury classics such as jambon-beurre sandwiches and quiche Lorraine, along with colourful mini macarons and elegant tartlets. 'This opening marks a new chapter for Scope Investment as we expand into Spain's culinary scene with a brand so deeply rooted in authenticity and artisanal excellence,' said Kieran Mallon the CEO of Scope Investment. 'Barcelona is a city that celebrates food, art and culture, and we're thrilled to be contributing to that spirit through PAUL.' With its central location, the store is easily accessible for university students, tourists exploring the Gothic Quarter, and professionals working in the nearby business district. The new opening is part of a broader growth plan that includes upcoming PAUL locations across Barcelona and Madrid, with stores set to launch on Diagonal Avenue, Plaza del Perú, and Serrano Street later this year.

Take this Salvador Dalí-inspired road trip through Spain
Take this Salvador Dalí-inspired road trip through Spain

National Geographic

time22-05-2025

  • Entertainment
  • National Geographic

Take this Salvador Dalí-inspired road trip through Spain

Barcelona was home to world-renowned surrealist artists such as Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró, as well as architect Antoni Gaudí—whose artistry as a Catalan modernist is present in the city's landmarks such as Casa Batlló and La Sagrada Familia, scheduled to be structurally completed in 2026 after 144 years of construction. Salvador Dalí was also another iconic name in the surrealism movement. His friend circle ranged from David Bowie and John Lennon to Walt Disney and Sigmund Freud. He spent most of his time outside of Barcelona, specifically in his hometown of Figueres and at his coastal home in Cadaqués, a two-hour drive from Barcelona. 'He really saw himself as being ultra-local,' says Dr. Elliott King, a Professor of Art History at Washington and Lee University in Lexington, Va. 'That's why when you're studying him, you have to go to those places that he talked about to realize that those rocks in his paintings are those rocks right there [in real places travelers can visit]. The ants are right there. Even some of the figures in his paintings were people he knew in Cadaqués.' Some Americans can easily travel to the Dalí Museum, which houses the largest collection of Dalí's work in the world, in St. Petersburg, Fla. However, a trip to Spain is necessary to understand the artist. Art lovers should hit the road and leave Barcelona to visit the famed artist's curated, unorthodox museums in the Costa Brava region of Catalonia. Three towns make up what is known as the Dalí Triangle and are home to three must-see museums: the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, the Gala Dalí Castle Museum in Púbol, and the Salvador Dalí House Museum in Port Lligat, also known as Portlligat. (Related: Fishing for red prawns off the coast of the Costa Brava.) Gala Dalí Castle and Museum, Púbol, Spain Salvador Dalí gifted this medieval castle in Púbol to his wife Gala, but the artist needed permission from his wife to visit. Today, Gala's former residence is now a museum dedicated to Dalí. Photograph by robertharding, Alamy Stock Photo In 1969, Salvador Dalí originally gifted this castle in Púbol to his wife Gala before it became the Gala Dalí Castle and Museum. A village of only 130 residents, Púbol was Gala Dalí's home, approximately an hour and a half car ride from Barcelona. While living here, she insisted on her autonomy, and even her famous husband had to receive written permission to visit. A box of invitations is on display at the museum. While a noted businesswoman, promoter, and muse who directed many aspects of her husband's career, Gala is often treated as a bit of a cipher, largely because even though she was often on display, she protected her privacy. So, visitors to this castle and museum get a more intimate view of her life, not often disclosed or revealed publicly. Melissa Locker, a Portland, Ore.-based author and self-described 'art nerd' from a family of art historians, has visited the Dalí Triangle multiple times with friends and family. Her return trips were largely inspired by the sense of intimacy the museums inspire. 'I think the Castle is the most surprising [of the three museums], because it highlighted how very modern Dalí and Gala were in their relationship,' she notes. 'My understanding is that he basically gave her the castle so she could host her lovers in style and privacy, and he could only come visit her when she sent him a written invitation. Very modern relationship, or as my grandmother would say, 'how very European.' (Related: The essential guide to visiting Spain.) This is the courtyard at the Gala Dalí Castle in Púbol, Spain. Photograph by Mark Green, Alamy Stock Photo A photo shows Salvador and Gala Dalí's bedroom at the Salvador Dalí House Museum in Port Lligat, Spain. Photograph by Tim Wright, Alamy Stock Photo The castle showcases how much Gala shared a love of aesthetics like her husband. Visitors will see unique pieces, such as a chess board where the pieces have been replaced with long, silver fingers, and a blue fabric-draped throne room fit for a queen (a reference to her status as Dalí's muse), complete with a fresco of her as a goddess. There's also a glass table with a vase of flowers that provides a view of a wooden horse statue on the floor below. The tranquility of the lush, backyard garden is punctuated with additional surrealist elements, including a clutch of busts featuring the head of Richard Wagner, a spindly elephant sculpture, and the Cadillac that Dalí drove to illegally transport his wife's body back to Púbol, honoring her wish to be buried at her castle. Alongside the surrealist embellishments, the museum also offers a sense of voyeurism, as daily life is on full display, particularly in the checkerboard kitchen, where several bottles of alcohol and an open silverware drawer add to the feeling that Gala simply stepped out. Her wardrobe is often displayed during special exhibitions, something that fascinated Dr. Elliot King when he visited. 'They've been putting on a number of shows on which they cycle through the seasons, because Gala had an affinity for Chanel dresses and fashion,' he says. 'That's really interesting … getting a sense of the corporeality of the people. When you see their clothing, they're not these abstract figures you just read about, they were people.' (Related: This Spanish dining tradition is one of its best-kept secrets.) Salvador Dalí House Museum, Port Lligat, Cadaqués A two-headed sculpture, the statues of Castor and Pollux, sit on top of the Salvador Dali House Museum in Port Lligat. Photograph by Juan Carlos Munoz, Alamy Stock Photo The Salvador Dalí House Museum is full of the artist's eclectic artwork. Photograph by Eric Martin, Figarophoto/Redux If the Gala Dalí Castle & Museum in Púbol is a glimpse at how Dalí and Gala's untraditional relationship functioned, the Salvador Dalí House Museum shows how well they worked while together. Located in the seaside village of Port Lligat and adjacent to Dali's childhood home, the couple's sprawling 500-square-meter (5,382-square-foot) villa started as a single fisherman's cottage with one room before they bought neighboring cottages and combined them. Today, the labyrinthine complex, full of twisting passageways and uneven floors, features rooms packed with the ephemera from the couple's day-to-day work and personal lives. 'The house and castle feel private, particularly the house,' says Locker. 'It felt like where Dali could be himself and less of an on-display, always-on personality. I enjoyed that, because his private life is less well-known than his public art, but art lovers may enjoy the other museums more.' The house served as Dalí's primary social and working hub until 1982. While filled with color and joy, the disheveled state of their personal effects also tells a sadder story—Dalí reportedly left in a rush after Gala's death, moving into Púbol castle, abandoning half-finished pieces in his grief. (Related: 7 of the best new museums to visit this year.) Like Gala's castle, the Salvador Dalí House Museum is embellished with many surrealist touches, such as a large egg balanced on the outer wall—a Roman-inspired visual reference to his relationship with Gala, given they were so alike, he felt like they were born out of the same egg. There is also a notably phallic-shaped pool, adorned with a couch in the shape of a pair of hot pink lips and four, tire-shaped ads for Italian carmaker, Tirelli. However, Dr. Elliot King warns against dissecting the details too intently. While Dalí is known for his layers of symbolism, there's a chance his home is just a collection of things he likes. 'I think it could be that he was just drawn to kitschy things,' he says. 'He liked that really bold Spanish Baroque style. He liked the ornamentation. At that time in the 1970s, he was wearing white smocks with silver sequins on them, velvet jackets, and giraffe print jackets. He had a look, and it wasn't subtle and understated.' Dalí Theatre-Museum, Figueres At the Salvador Dalí Museum in Figueres, this art installation is based on Dalí's painting, 'Mae West's Face May be Used as a Surrealist Apartment,' where Mae West's lips are reimagined as a sofa. Photograph by Alexander Cimbal, Alamy Stock Photo After visiting the Salvador Dalí House Museum, road trippers can continue their immersive Salvador Dalí road trip to the Dalí Theatre Museum in Figueres—a 50-minute drive west from Portlligat. This museum is one of the world's largest pieces of surrealist art. When the mayor asked Dalí to donate a piece of art to the city, Dalí, an overachiever, transformed a former theater into a museum that opened in September 1974. The rooftop—a clutch of eggs and Oscar-like figurines—represents rebirth, life, and creativity. 'The museum itself is unlike any other project ever conceived by an artist, as Dalí envisioned it as a work of art in its own right—a vast installation, the largest surrealist object in the world,' says Jordi Artigas, director of Public Programs at the Gala-Salvador Dalí Foundation. 'At the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, we receive all kinds of fascinating comments, as our visitors come from many different backgrounds and walks of life. One particularly memorable remark came from a grandfather who told us he loved the museum because it was just as interesting for him at 75 as it was for his 8-year-old grandson.' (Related: 10 ways to see a different side of Spain.) The Dalí Theatre-Museum is dedicated to the Figueres-born artist Salvador Dalí. Photograph by Hemis, Alamy Stock Photo Dalí curated and hung more than 1,500 works of art in the museum, which gives visitors insight into the artist's inscrutable logic. A backdrop he painted in 1941 for New York Ballet's production of Labyrinth hangs across from a room that has a ceiling fresco featuring him and Gala as dirty-feet gods descending to earth. Museum visitors can also see a room-sized installation of huge red lips, called 'Mae West Which Can Be Used as an Apartment.' His artistry in jewelry is also on display. Don't leave this museum without visiting the surprisingly understated basement crypt that doubles as Dalí's final resting place. After visiting the Dalí Theatre-Museum, art lovers will realize that Dalí's eccentric realm is best experienced in person. 'The amount of work that Dalí put out during his lifetime is not just the paintings. It's the letters, there's the text, there's holograms,' says King. 'He wrote an opera. He did so many things, and a lot of it won't travel, and so the only way you're going to see it is if you go.' (Related: The inconvenient spectacle of Frida Kahlo.) Most major rental car companies, including Hertz, Sixt, Avis, Europcar, Enterprise, and Budget have offices in Barcelona. Minimum age for car rental is 21, however, drivers under 25 will often be asked to pay a supplementary 'young driver surcharge'—usually about €20 (U.S. $ 22.33) per day. While any rental companies will not ask for an International Drivers Permit (IDP), police will often ask for a drivers' IDP at traffic stops. These translated versions of your license can be obtained before your trip at the DMV or AAA for $20. A road trip can be accomplished by breaking the legs up into three separate days or staying in Figueres and embarking on a series of day trips. Laura Studarus is a Los Angeles-based writer who covers travel and culture. Follow her on Instagram.

Antoni Gaudí's Batlló Chair Gets Limited Reissue by BD Barcelona & CASA VALLE for NYCxDesign
Antoni Gaudí's Batlló Chair Gets Limited Reissue by BD Barcelona & CASA VALLE for NYCxDesign

Hypebeast

time19-05-2025

  • Entertainment
  • Hypebeast

Antoni Gaudí's Batlló Chair Gets Limited Reissue by BD Barcelona & CASA VALLE for NYCxDesign

BD Barcelonahas partnered withGiancarlo Valleand Jane Keltner de Valle'sCASA VALLEto reproduce a 50-piece run of architectAntoni Gaudí's Batlló Chair, originally designed for the Casa Batlló dining room during the period of 1904-1906. The special release, rendered in a timeless ebony stain, is on view now with other pieces from BD's Gaudí Collection at gallery CASA VALLE for NYCxDesign. Though born in the early 20th century, the striking design exemplifies the language of Catalan's 'Modernisme,' closely associated with the then-innovative Art Nouveau aesthetic. Gaudí's whimsical and awe-inspiring designs are foundational to the movement, also characterized by the dramatic curves, tapered silhouettes, and naturalistic inspiration seen in the famous chair. In tandem with promoting the legacy of Gaudí's design language, the chair's darkened finish injects it with contemporaneity. According to BD Barcelona, each chair is an 'exact reproduction of the original, handcrafted by artisans in Barcelona,' complete with a certificate signed by the Gaudí Cathedra to guarantee authenticity. The Spanish furniture purveyor's Gaudí Collection joins its Art Editions initiative, which focuses on collectable limited editions like the iconic designs of Salvador Dalí. CASA VALLE highlights the significance of the famed architect today, saying 'Gaudí's work and brand of modernism feels incredibly relevant today. We wanted to retell this rich story in the context of what is happening now, and connect it to the energy and ideas coming out of New York and what could come next,' in a statement. Interested parties can enquire withBD Barcelonafor more information on the limited-edition release. The 50 ebony editions will be on view atCASA VALLE'sat 50 Lispenard Street location from May 15-21.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store