Book once and enjoy both properties with this great combination ticket.
{{ticket-block-triple}}
Casa Batlló is as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the "Works of Gaudí" listing. The property attracts around one million visitors each year which makes it one of Barcelona’s most popular cultural and tourist attractions.
The property was originally built in 1877 by Emilio Sala Cortés, who happened to be one of Antoni Gaudí’s architecture professors. It didn't become 'Casa Batlló' until 1903 when it was purchased by Josep Batlló y Casanovas, a prominent businessman and textile industrialist in Barcelona, who re-named it as Casa Batlló.
Batlló then commissioned Antoni Gaudí to redevelop the property and actually granted him complete creative freedom to redesign the building as he wished. Gaudi went on to complete the renovation in 1906.
The Batlló family then went on to sell Casa Batlló in the 1950s and then between then and the 1990s, the property changed hands multiple times until it was eventually acquired by the Bernat family, who still own it to this today.
In 1995, the Bernat family decided to open Casa Batlló to the public in order that it could be celebrated as part of the Gaudí collection in Barcelona.
Gaudí never did anything by the book, as such. His work was always exceptional and surpassed normal standards in order to meet his own levels. For Casa Batlló, he collaborated with some of the finest artisans. He integrated a blend of wrought iron, wood, stained glass, ceramic, and stone, to bring his vision to life, whilst ensuring every detail was to his standards. The way light pours through the windows, the intricate letters on the doors - every element was meticulously designed, not just by luck. However, functionality was also always paramount for Gaudí, he ensured his designs were also functional and useable.
As you approach Casa Batlló you see its façade and can immediately tell its not a normal property. Gaudí employed the 'trencadís' technique, which uses small pieces of broken ceramic tiles to create a mosaic and at Casa Batlló, the mosaic has been designed to resemble an underwater world. The iron balconies on the windows are crafted to look like masks or skulls, add to the effect. The main balcony, which is nicknamed the "bone balcony," actually resembles a jawbone! The roof is covered with colourful tiles to ensure a harmonious flow throughout the structure.
The grand entrance hall on the ground floor leads to what was once the Batlló family's private entrance. The area is designed with an underwater theme, with many believing it was inspired by Jules Verne's novel '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea'. The skylights resemble turtle shells, and the vaulted walls' curves are mirrored in the magnificent wooden staircase with its smooth, carved banister representing the backbone of a large animal.
The Noble Floor is the heart of Casa Batlló. It houses what was Mr. Batlló's study and features an incredible mushroom-shaped fireplace. The main living rooms centre piece is a prominent window which overlooks 'Paseo de Gracia', the famous and fashionable road on which the property was built. This window was important, as Paseo de Gracia was the place to be seen, and its large size underscored the property's importance to passers by.
The Patio of Lights again had function. It was designed to distribute air and light throughout the property. Gaudí actually expanded the original plan as he didn't feel the space was big enough initially. Covered in blue tiles, the patio reflects light beautifully, which then also enhances the overall ambiance inside the building.
On the Noble Floor, the family's private dining room opens to a spacious private courtyard at the rear which offers a degree of seclusion and privacy.
The loft is a unique blend of aesthetics and functionality. It was originally used for laundry and storage, the space features curved walls that create light and depth, thought to be designed on the ribcage of an animal.
The roof terrace of Casa Batlló is one of its most iconic areas. The bright colours used along with the uniquely designed chimney stacks immediately draw attention but again are functional and are ingeniously crafted to prevent backdraughts. Often referred to as the 'dragon's back,' this area is defined by its flowing shapes and contours.
Casa Batlló teamed up with two digital artists, Refik Anadol & Sofia Crespo on separate occasions and the artists used their skills to bring the façade of Casa Batlló to life using digital mapping. Click HERE to watch the YouTube video. It was incredible.
Casa Batlló was built on Passeig de Gracia, one of the most prestigious and famous avenues in Barcelona, to showcase the influence and wealth of its owner. Passeig de Gracia has historically held great architectural, cultural, and commercial significance, making it an ideal location for such a remarkable property.
The road is home to two Gaudí's masterpieces, Casa Batlló and Casa Milà (La Pedrera). The properties along Passeig de Gracia provide a glimpse into Barcelona's artistic legacy and historical evolution.
It still remains a famous shopping destination and is lined with prestigious brands and luxury boutiques. Upscale fashion stores, jewellery shops, and high-end designer outlets which attract both locals and tourists, adding to the avenue's popularity.
In addition to Gaudí's properties, Passeig de Gracia is also home to other incredible properties, including Casa Amatller. Designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Casa Amatller showcases a blend of Catalan modernism and neo-Gothic influences, making it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts.
Passeig de Gracia's combination of historical significance, architectural beauty, and commercial prestige made it the perfect location for Casa Batlló, reflecting the cultural and artistic heritage of Barcelona while serving as a symbol of its owner's affluence.
LAST ENTRY: 19:15 PM