Gaudí’s spectacular Casa Batlló, Barcelona

Casa Battlo, BarcelonaI’ve already written a post about Antonin Gaudí’s first major commission in Barcelona, Spain – the Palau Güell. The Catalan architect’s work are on prominent display all around Barcelona – and one that should not be missed is the whimsical Casa Batlló.

This home, also known locally as the Casa dels ossos (House of Bones) for its bone-like shapes, was reworked by Gaudí in 1904 from a previous building, which stood on the  elegant Passeig de Gràcia.

The building’s exterior is spectacular,  decorated with designs of broken ceramic tiles -called trencadís – employed often by  Gaudí. the effect is beautiful, as the ceramic shards catch the light.

Casa Battlo, BarcelonaIt’s interesting to see just how much Gaudí’s style changed between the Palau Güell and this commission. The Casa Batlló reflects his later work and creativity. Like many of his later projects, the Casa Batlló appears to have no straight lines.

This post to the left shows a segment from Casa Batlló’s roof – a section called the dragon’s back. Again, the rooftop displays the trencadís Gaudí used so often.

The house was purchased by Josep Batlló, who grew wealthy in the textile industry,  in 1900. He wanted a home that looked completely original, and he hired Antonin Gaudí to carry out that wish.

2014_January_Battlo3The original plan was to destroy the house and to build something entirely new. It was Gaudí who convinced Batlló to maintain the original structure and allow him to renovate it.

Gaudí’s projects always called for an abundance of light. One of the first changes he made was to expand the home’s central skylight, and to open up the rooms to this large light source. He also added floors to the building.

Casa Battlo, Barcelona, SpainGaudí was deeply religious. On the building’s facade are letters depicting Jesus, Mary and Joseph in ceramic pieces against the greed facade background.

In 1906, Josep Batlló got his wish – the completion of a stunningly original house on the Passeig de Gràcia, already known as an elegant street in early 20th century Barcelona. Batlló lived in the home until his death in 1934, and his widow and, later, children continued to live in the family residence until 1954.

Today, the Casa Batlló is open to visitors daily, yearlong, from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased at the building, or online in advance, through the web site. Ticket prices are rather steep, with adults 21. 50 euro and youth (7-18) at 18.50 euro. Children under 7 are free.

Casa Battlo, Barcelona, SpainCasa Battlo, Barcelona, Spain

4 Comments

  1. Claire 'Word by Word' on January 28, 2014 at 9:29 am

    So close Barcelona and yet I have never been there, think I will make it another Christmas destination. Fab pics. That light! 🙂

    • kimberlysullivan on January 28, 2014 at 6:09 pm

      Yes- you are quite close. Definitely worth a visit. Yes, Gaudi was a master of light – why not with that fabulous Mediterranean sunshine? : )

  2. nylonliving on January 28, 2014 at 2:37 pm

    Reblogged this on Just Go Places.

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