Places to See in Barcelona: Exploring Catalan Art Nouveau Facades
One of the things you can do in Barcelona completely free is to stroll through the streets and discover the enchanting Catalan Art Nouveau facades. You'll wander through vibrant neighbourhoods, uncovering intricate details, organic forms, and unique architectural solutions.
Let's begin the itinerary with the most famous buildings and then proceed to the hidden gems that even many locals may not know about.
- Casa Batlló (Passeig de Gràcia, 43)
Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, Casa Batlló is arguably one of the most famous facades in Barcelona. The building is adorned with colourful mosaics and whimsical sculptures, and it is replete with symbolism and hidden messages by the famous architect Antonio Gaudí.
- Casa Milà (La Pedrera) (Passeig de Gràcia, 92)
Another masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí, Casa Milà, also known as La Pedrera, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The facade features undulating lines, while the balconies are wrought-iron. Its unique appearance is truly remarkable and unlike anything else you have seen before.
- Casa Amatller (Passeig de Gràcia, 41)
Designed by another great architect, Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Casa Amatller is a striking example of Catalan Modernism. The facade is adorned with sculptures of fantastical creatures, mythological figures, and other ornamental details. They evoke a sense of imagination, inviting to explore the building's artistic intricacies.
- Casa Lleó Morera (Passeig de Gràcia, 35)
Casa Lleó Morera is one of the buildings grouped in the "Manzana de la Discordia" (Quarter of Discord). Three renowned architects vied for the title of the most beautiful building in Barcelona. While Gaudi's Casa Batlló ultimately captured the attention of spectators, Casa Lleó Morera should not be overlooked.
- Casa Comalat (Avinguda Diagonal, 442)
Casa Comalat is a hidden gem tucked away on the Avinguda Diagonal. This facade features a unique blend of Art Nouveau and Gothic influences, characterized by ornate stone carvings and eccentric details.
- Casa Sayrach (Avinguda Diagonal, 423)
Casa Sayrach is one of Barcelona's lesser-known architectural treasures. This is a late Modernist building that emerged in the year 1918 when hardly any architects were still working in this style.
- The Casa Macaya (Pg Sant Joan 108)
The Casa Macaya stands out for its architectural beauty and the contrast between the apparent simplicity of the white facade and the elaborately ornamented windows in stone.
- Casa de les Punxes (Avinguda Diagonal, 420)
Casa de les Punxes is yet another emblematic representation of Catalan Modernism. Its facade features six towers with six points, each embodying a distinct medieval legend, evoking a fairy-tale atmosphere. Comprising three distinct structures, this building encompasses an entire city block and was once owned by three sisters from the affluent Terrades family.
This is just a glimpse of the many beautiful facades that Barcelona has to offer. Embark on this captivating journey and don't forget to look up—gorgeous buildings await at every turn in Barcelona.