Reus, Gaudi's modernism

Situated in south-eastern Catalonia, Reus is the region's major commercial and cultural centre. During the eighteenth century, it was the international point of reference for the brandy trade (hence the saying "Reus , Paris , and London"), and as such became Catalonia's second city. With the advent of the industrial revolution in the nineteenth century, the city underwent a boom, fuelled by the textile industry.

The world famous architect Antonio Gaudí, known for his many beautiful buildings in Barcelona, was born in the city of Reus. Oddly, although Reus is Gaudí's home town, it boasts no example of his work. Many of his friends and college's constructed most of the Modernism buildings found in the city. Domènech i Montaner served as a role-model for other local architects who helped fuel the city's creative vitality at this time. These included Pere Caselles, who designed most of the Modernist buildings in Reus, and Joan Rubió i Bellver, a pupil of Antonio Gaudí. The emergent middle classes, emulating the great capitals of Europe, transformed the face of the city by redesigning in the most avant-garde style of the day: Modernism.

As mentioned before, Reus is the region's major commercial and cultural centre and in all streets many shops can be found. The main shopping area of Reus is called Tomb de Raval and all international brands such as Zara, Mango, Pull & Bear, United Colours, Lacoste and Burberry are present.

Reus also is the place where the Airport of the Costa Dorada can be found. Just 10 km away from the coastal places Salou, Cambrils and La Pineda and the capital of the province Tarragona.

Since Reus is the capital of the Comarca Baix Camp, there is more to see than just the city. Explore the mountains surrounding the city and go to see places like Prades, Siurana , Mont Roig and much more to discover the real Spain without hordes of tourists surrounding you.

Text source: www.reus.net