It's hard to overlook the human costs too with some "projects" that took generations to finish. Too much slave labor in history. Then again, when I look at the work such as the door you posted, it's easy to see someone was good at what they did, they probably enjoyed the work.

Some of the over the top look I think comes from an earlier time than we're used to architecturally in the US. It's amazing how quickly you can become accustomed to what's around you in not too long a time.

Spain is on our list to visit.