commissioned to build a church and crypt on the hill overlooking the village. However, Güell ran into financial difficulties and the project was eventually abandoned. In spite of its unfinished status, the work is a masterpiece and demonstrates many of Gaudi's signature architectural devices including catenary arches and tessellated finishes. The village, which is still fully operational boasts many fine examples of modernist architecture. Reportedly on one occasion Gaudí said to Güell, "Sometimes I think we are the only people who like this architecture." Güell replied, "I don't like your architecture, I respect it." in 1900, Güell bought land in Gracia, Barcelona and employed Gaudí to build an estate for the rich. At that time, the area was considered to be remote and the project failed to realize commercial success. Only two houses were built. In 1923, the Güell family gave the land to the city, as Park Güell. King Alfonso XIII ennobled Eusebi Güell as count in 1908. He died in his house in Park Güell in 1918. Patronage Buildings by Gaudí that bear Güell's name include: Palau Güell Colònia Güell (at Santa Coloma de Cervello) Park Güell Bodega Güell (at Garraf, near Sitges) Pabellones Güell de Pedrables References External links Page at Catalan Encyclopedia online 1846 births 1918 deaths People from Barcelona Catalan nobility Businesspeople from Catalonia Burials at Poblenou Cemetery