Antoni Gaudí Arches Photos

Antoni Gaudí, renowned architect of Barcelona, pioneered the use of parabolic arches in his designs. In cases like the Casa Milà attic, virtually every arch support was different. Gaudi engineered his arches upside-down by hanging strings to see the most energy efficient shape. Through such work, Gaudi was able to build Gothic structures without the need for flying buttresses. Because Gaudi worked with several tradesmen and craftsmen, it is difficult to say how much of each design is due to him, but it is fair to say he inspired the works. These original images by Jim Steinhart are arranged chronologically to help understand the evolution of Gaudi's thinking.