'Gaudí in Chocolate': Artisanal chocolate easter eggs take over Park Güell

Forget about tiles, mosaic lizards, and colourful benches – the iconic Park Güell is now not only home to the enchanting creations of Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, but also to large chocolate Easter eggs inspired by his unmistakable style.

Wanting to do something unique to mark the centenary of Gaudí's death and the 100th anniversary of Park Güell opening to the public, the landmark has launched a special initiative as part of the Gaudí Year and Barcelona's designation as the 2026 World Capital of Architecture. 

Unveiled on March 17 and on display until April 9, ten unique chocolate eggs in different colors and shapes are being displayed in the Hypostyle Hall of the scenic park. 

Carme Lanuza, Director of Park Güell, is confident that the public will love the eggs.

"The eggs they have made are works of art. They are all inspired by Gaudí – in the mosaic, in the colors, in the shapes, it is the essence of Park Güell."

Each egg was carefully designed by a Catalan pastry chef. Selection for display was competitive, with only the finest creations chosen.

Locally made chocolate meets Gaudí's vision

The chocolate, ranging from white to dark, is all made and produced locally in Catalonia, and every piece is inspired in some way by Gaudí.

"We did not use colorings or any added products – this is local, high-quality chocolate, artisan-made for people to enjoy it," says Lluís Costa, one of the pastry chefs exhibiting his chocolate egg.

Using the Gaudí trencadís technique – the method of breaking mosaic and then reassembling it – Costa found inspiration for his creation.

"We made a sheet of chocolate, broke it into pieces, and reassembled it. We did this because Gaudí used tiles – he broke them and placed them onto the structure."

Saray Ruiz, exhibitor and director of the Barcelona Association's Pastry School, explains that her egg is directly related to Park Güell.

"We wanted to represent the moment we are celebrating today: the opening of Park Güell to the public. That is why our egg represents an opening egg, symbolizing the park gates opening so people can enter."

An honor to exhibit at Park Güell

"It is very emotional for me because when I first came to Barcelona to study pastry-making, the first public place – the first Gaudí building – I visited was Park Güell. So it feels beautiful, almost romantic, to now have the chance to exhibit something of your own in a place like this," Ruiz says.

Costa adds: "You feel pride in presenting your work and being present in such an extraordinary monument here in Barcelona and Catalonia." 

"After the exhibition, the eggs will be broken, and children from schools around Park Güell will be able to enjoy the chocolate. The piece with the most popular votes will be placed in the Barcelona Chocolate Museum so visitors can see it," Costa explains.

Chocolate Easter Eggs: A Catalan Tradition

"In Catalonia, Easter eggs are a centuries-old tradition, deeply rooted within families. It is a very Catalan tradition," Lanuza explains.

Traditionally, Catalans celebrated Easter with a 'mona de Pasqua,' a sweet pastry similar to brioche, often decorated with hard-boiled eggs.

Over time, tastes evolved, and today's 'mones de Pasqua' are elaborate chocolate and pastry creations enjoyed by children and adults alike and displayed throughout Catalonia during Easter.

This tradition inspired the creation and display of the Gaudí-inspired Easter delicacies that will be open to the public in the Hypostyle Hall at Park Güell from March 17 to April 9.

Park Güell to host additional events this year

As part of the Gaudí Year, Park Güell has additional special events planned.

"This year we have three special events," Lanuza revealed, without giving further details.

Other events taking place as part of the Gaudí Year and World Capital of Architecture 

Casa Batlló –  Exhibition 'Beyond the Façade.' 

Casa Batlló –  Musical theatre production 'Gaudí: The Awakening of the Genius.'

Sagrada Famillia –  Papal visit to inaugurate the Tower of Jesus.

Casa Vicens – Opening of restored spaces, including the smoking room

Palau Güell –  Exhibition highlighting the original decoration and furniture.