Casa Batlló is situated in one of the most beautiful avenues of Barcelona – the Passeig de Gràcia – and it was designed by the world-known architect, Antoni Gaudí. This building, which was called the ‘House of Bones’ because of the skeletal look of the construction, is a perfect example of the modernist style and at the same time embodies the spirit of Catalonia.
Casa Batlló was constructed in 1906 and is one of the most unique designs of Gaudí with the like of wavy frontage, mosaic tiles of blue and white, ironworks balconies and roof in the form of a dragon. It is a building by Gaudí and every part of it is different; the natural and the surrealistic have been used to turn an ordinary house into a work of art.
The interior is not less fascinating as the façade: the smooth, bright and curvy lines, the exquisite woodwork, the overall design that seems to be rather a dream than reality all together make Casa Batlló a perfect example of the outstanding architecture and art of Barcelona as well as a place that is worth visiting for anyone who is interested in the culture and history of the city.
Gaudí’s Fantasy: A Tour
Casa Batlló is one of the best examples of how the architects were able to create a work of art, a building of fantasy and innovation; it was built in 1906. Gaudí’s brilliant idea transforms a typical structure into a play of colour, form and texture. The façade of Casa Batlló is designed with trencadís, broken tiles that glitter like jewels and are used at the front part of the building. The wavy form is associated with the shape of a dragon’s back; balconies resemble masks of mythical beasts; and the roof resembles the scales of a fabulous beast. The whole construction has a dynamic character; it seems as if the construction is in a state of constant movement which is typical of Gaudí.
The Enchanting Interiors
As soon as one gets into Casa Batlló, he or she is enveloped in a world that is a creation of art and imagination. The interiors are a masterpiece with fine lines, curves and the best blend of colours and materials. The Noble Floor on the first level has a great living room with a very high ceiling, attractive wooden molding and doors, and those large windows let in a lot of light. The central light well with blue tiles at the bottom has a gradient effect which makes people feel that they are actually deeper in the building when they go up the floors. Each room is evidence of Gaudí’s passion for details, and the individuality of the approach to the arrangement of the space, as it can be observed by the visitors.
The coat of arms of the people of Catalonia
Casa Batlló is not only the building but also the symbol of the Catalan modernism and people’s self-identification. It is thus an art nouveau and modernisme creation of the early twentieth-century Barcelona and of Gaudí’s passion for Catalonia and its geography. The building is a perfect example of how a construction can go beyond the mere serving of its functions, to become an embodiment of people’s personality and creativity. That is why it is on the list of UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites; it is a cultural value and a living proof of Gaudí’s work.
Experiencing Casa Batlló
What is more, Casa Batlló is not only an object that can be visited but also a place where one can feel he or she is inside the artwork. The building has an audiovisual tour that allows the visitor to learn about the architectural and artistic ideas of Gaudí as applied in Casa Milá. Sometimes there are special exhibitions and events, and so the building is employed in a number of ways in order to host the visitors. The last and the most magnificent point of the tour is the rooftop terrace, where the guests can admire the stunning views of Barcelona and contemplate the works of Gaudí and architects of the city.
Conclusion
Casa Batlló is one of the most inspiring and mind-blowing tours into the universe of one of the greatest architects of the world Antoni Gaudí. From the outside to the inside and including even the furniture and the materials used, it is a tour of the modernist style which remains engraved in one’s memory. So if you are an architecture freak, a history freak or simply a freak of beauty and creativity, Casa Batlló is a place you should not miss.
Visit Casa Batlló and discover a brief history and architectural details of one of the Gaudí’s masterpieces – do not wait any longer, book your tour now!