Explore Casa Amatller, a Modernist Gem in Barcelona
In the heart of Barcelona, alongside the iconic Casa Batlló, stands another gem of modernism: the Casa Amatller. Designed by the brilliant architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch, this stunning building is a must-visit for anyone exploring the vibrant streets of the city. If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona and want to dive into the rich architectural heritage of the area, this guide will provide you with all the essential details and tips for an unforgettable visit.
As a special treat, on March 12, 2023, Casa Amatller celebrated its 125th anniversary. To commemorate this milestone, a giveaway of 125 free tickets was held. For those interested, it's worth checking the Cases Singulars website for similar upcoming events. Our visit was made possible thanks to an invitation from Visit Barcelona—thank you!
Exploring the Casa Amatller
While Casa Batlló often steals the spotlight with its wavy façade, Casa Amatller deserves equal attention. Its intriguing exterior hints at the treasures hidden within. Upon entering, you are greeted by a kaleidoscope of colors—a true feast for the eyes. The vibrant stained glass, ornate tiles, and intricate mosaics transform the space into a stunning celebration of color and design.
Among the many unique houses in Barcelona, Casa Amatller stands out as one of the most beautiful and surprising. Let’s delve deeper into what makes this architectural wonder so special.
History of Casa Amatller
The Casa Amatller’s story begins back in 1898 when Antoni Amatller commissioned its renovation, entrusting the project to Puig i Cadafalch. This historical building is located on the renowned “Block of Discord,” a name that reflects the fierce competition among architects of the time to create the grandest and most luxurious structures in Barcelona.
What sets Casa Amatller apart is its eclectic neo-Gothic style, featuring a roof inspired by traditional Flemish houses with stepped gables. Inside, you are enveloped in opulence—from the grand fireplace in the living room to the exquisite stained glass and decorative wooden ceilings.
Did you know who Antoni Amatller was? If you have a sweet tooth, his name might ring a bell. Born into a family of chocolatiers, Antoni was a prominent figure in the Catalan bourgeoisie during the Renaixença movement. An avid traveler, photographer, and collector, he amassed a remarkable collection of archaeological glass, a portion of which you can see during your visit.
Highlights of Casa Amatller
Ready to discover the wonders within Casa Amatller? Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect to see during your visit.
Fachade and Entrance
Your journey begins with the breathtaking façade, a masterpiece that draws inspiration from Flemish architecture. A variety of materials, including ceramics, glass, and iron, come together to create this enchanting exterior. The entrance hall, adorned with stunning stained glass windows, leads to a magnificent marble staircase—an architectural gem in itself. You can purchase your entrance tickets here, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this splendid creation.
Main Floor
The main floor once served as the residence of Antoni Amatller and his daughter, Teresa. This area comprises a hallway adorned with mosaics, tiled walls, and decorated ceilings, leading to several key rooms:
Dining Room
The dining room is arguably the most captivating space in the house. The large stained-glass window, featuring floral motifs, floods the room with natural light, while an extravagant fireplace and a colorful glass chandelier create a warm, inviting atmosphere. You can easily imagine Antoni and Teresa sharing a meal here, surrounded by beauty.
Teresa Amatller’s Bedroom
Following his separation from his wife, Cándida Cros Circuns, Antoni raised Teresa alone. She took an active role in redecorating her bedroom upon returning home, infusing it with a more neutral color palette compared to its previously youthful design. In 1942, without close relatives to inherit the house, Teresa established the Amatller Institute of Hispano-American Art, aiming to preserve and manage the Casa Museum and promote research on Hispano-American art. For more information, check out here.
Living Room and Antoni Amatller’s Bedroom
The living room is another stunning highlight, showcasing a significant portion of Antoni’s archaeological glass collection. His bedroom, while more subdued in color, offers a glimpse into his personal life, featuring rich red-brown hues and a functional yet simple bathroom (which we recommend you don’t use!).
Study
Lastly, Antoni’s study is a focal point, featuring a beautiful ceiling and colorful stained glass window overlooking the patio. Here, you’ll find a desk and a bookshelf filled with ancient manuals, inviting you to explore the depths of knowledge that inspired Antoni’s work.
Cafeteria and Garage
Your visit concludes at the charming Faborit café, where you can enjoy a refreshment in the lovely outdoor patio. Don’t miss the chocolate shop, where you can savor the sweet legacy of the Amatller family (they even treat you to a little chocolate!). Despite the changes over the years, the original designs remain, preserving the essence of this historic family.
As you exit through the main gate, take a moment to notice the circular area on the ground—a clever revolving platform where Antoni parked his personal car, making it easy to maneuver without hassle.
Types of Tickets
Several ticket options are available for visiting Casa Amatller:
- Self-guided visit: Includes an audio guide (available in Catalan, Spanish, English, or French) allowing you to explore at your own pace. This standard entry costs €17.
- Guided tour: Join a small group led by a specialized guide who will unveil the house's wonders and details. Available in English, Catalan, and Spanish with different time slots, this one-hour tour costs €20.
- Sundays with chocolate: This package includes a self-guided visit with an audio guide, concluding with a delightful hot chocolate experience. Available only on Sunday afternoons, priced at €19.
- Guided tour and photography studio: Antoni Amatller had a keen interest in photography, and his studio is accessible with this ticket. This option costs €24.
Discounts are available for seniors, residents, students, or individuals under 30. For more details about ticket options and pricing, visit here.
Location of Casa Amatller
Casa Amatller is conveniently located at Passeig de Gracia, 41, right next to the Casa Batlló. You can reach it via metro (the nearest station is “Passeig de Gràcia,” served by lines L2, L3, and L4) or by urban bus (lines H10, V15, 7, 22, and 24). The tourist bus also has a stop here.
Tips for Visiting Casa Amatller
Before you head out to explore Casa Amatller, here are some valuable tips to ensure your visit is as enriching as possible:
- You can reserve your tickets online through this website.
- While an audio guide is provided, consider downloading the official APP for a virtual tour of the house before your visit. Download it here.
- After your tour, treat yourself to a hot chocolate that has been made using the original recipe for over a century in their café. The menu also features healthy dishes, brunch, and various beverages.
- Remember that Casa Amatller is closed on Mondays, and the visiting hours may vary based on the type of tour.
While Casa Amatller may not be as famous as Casa Batlló or La Pedrera, it has certainly captured our hearts. Stepping inside feels like entering a bygone era, a glimpse into the life of the Catalan bourgeoisie of the Renaixença period. Witnessing this slice of history is an invaluable experience, with every detail thoughtfully preserved.
So, if you find yourself in Barcelona, don’t hesitate to visit Casa Amatller. It’s an authentic treasure waiting to be explored!
Avoid missing out on this experience, and as you step through its doors, you’ll understand why Casa Amatller is celebrated as one of the finest examples of modernist architecture in Barcelona. Explore its intricacies and feel the spirit of a transformative period in history.
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