UIC Barcelona School of Architecture lecturer Ricardo Gómez Val recently took part in the 5th edition of the Historic Mortars Conference (HMC), during which he presented the results of the research project “The use of mortars in Palau Güell by Gaudí”, developed alongside Judith Ramirez Casas and Antonia Navarro Ezquerra. The conference, which took place from 19-21 June, was organised by the Department of Chemistry at the University of Navarra. 

According to the lecturer, when studying Antoni Gaudí’s work, it becomes clear that, despite being an architect associated with traditional techniques, he always sought to experiment and innovate in his projects. “In Palau Güell, he used different types of mortars as binder materials and as fastening material for façades and pavements”, explained the lecturer. “The different ways in which the artist used mortars illustrates an ongoing debate between technique and art, and the relationship between production and design”. The studies show that innovation was always present in Antoni Gaudí's work, both in the forms and materials used by the architect.

The use of natural cements by Antoni Gaudí represented a technological challenge in the construction of Palau Güell. “To create these building, Antoni Gaudí had to develop new techniques and materials based on his knowledge of traditional materials and techniques”, he argues. 

The latest edition of this international conference focused on research surrounding aspects such as the technology and characterisation of historic mortars, the importance of this construction material and conservation and restoration issues in historic structures.