Nau Gaudí, Industrial building and cultural heritage site in Mataró, Spain
Nau Gaudí is an industrial building in Catalan modernist style featuring thirteen parabolic arches that create an open interior space of 600 square meters without support columns. The design allows an unobstructed view across the entire hall, making the space highly functional for its original industrial purpose.
The structure was built between 1878 and 1883 as part of a workers cooperative complex and represents Antoni Gaudí's first major architectural commission. This project established the foundation for the innovative design approach Gaudí would later develop throughout Catalonia.
The building has served as the Mataró Contemporary Art Museum Consortium since 2010, housing regional artwork and the Bassat Collection. Visitors experience art exhibitions within a historic industrial space that reflects the community's connection to both creativity and industrial heritage.
The building underwent complete restoration in 2008, maintaining its original industrial architecture while being adapted for modern cultural activities. The large open space is sometimes reconfigured for specific exhibitions, so checking current activities before visiting helps you make the most of your time.
The innovative parabolic arch system in this building became a signature element in Gaudí's later, more famous works and demonstrated his revolutionary approach from the start. Though less celebrated than his subsequent projects, this structure was the testing ground for techniques Gaudí would use throughout Catalonia.
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