Virtual Revival of Gaudí’s Controversial Design

Residents and visitors in Vic can now see a digital reconstruction of two monumental lampposts designed by Antoni Gaudí in 1910, using an augmented reality app launched as part of the centenary commemorations of the architect’s death. The lampposts, originally installed at the entrance to Plaça Major along Carrer Verdaguer, were removed in 1924 after generating significant controversy among local residents. To view the virtual lampposts, users must scan a QR code that directs them to the AR application. Once activated, the app overlays a 3D model of the 10-metre-tall structures, featuring stone bases and forged metal ornaments, onto the real-world location through the user’s mobile device.

“They generated a lot of controversy,” said Anna Alemany, Vic’s tourism councillor, during the project’s presentation. “Some people liked them, others didn’t understand them, and failed to appreciate the importance Gaudí’s work would later hold.”

Recovering Gaudí’s Brief Connection to Vic

Gaudí’s involvement with Vic was limited to a three-week stay in spring 1910 at Casa Rocafiguera, where he recuperated from illness. During this time, members of the Cercle Literari commissioned him to design a monument for the centenary of philosopher Jaume Balmes’ birth. Instead of a statue, Gaudí proposed the pair of lampposts. Due to the impossibility of reconstructing the original structures physically, the city’s tourism department partnered with Farinera to develop the augmented reality experience. The project is part of a broader programme of events marking the Gaudí Year.

Upcoming Gaudí Centenary Events in Vic

  • A lecture by Jordi Faulí, architect of the Sagrada Família, on Friday 16 October at Sala de la Columna, exploring Gaudí’s ties to Vic.
  • Unveiling of a commemorative plaque at Casa Rocafiguera following the lecture.
  • Opening of the exhibition Modernisme a Vic. Any Gaudí on the same day.
  • A series of guided tours, workshops, and talks highlighting Vic’s modernist heritage and Gaudí’s footprint in the city.

The augmented reality experience and full event schedule are accessible via the city’s official tourism portal and naciodigital.cat.

Reported by interactius.ara.cat, sagradafamilia.org, educa.sagradafamilia.org, naciodigital.cat, El 9 Nou.