Casa Batlló is one of Antoni Gaudí’s most famous works, known as a pearl of modernism and an icon of Barcelona. Located in the heart of the city, on the prestigious Passeig de Gràcia avenue, this building is a prime example of the extraordinary imagination of the Catalan architect who, through his bold design, created a masterpiece that is known around the world today.
The original building, which is now called Casa Batlló, was built in 1877 according to classical models, devoid of any elements that might distinguish it from other buildings of that era. It was commissioned by Lluís Sali Sánchez and initially received little attention. Only the purchase of the property by the wealthy Batlló family in 1903 changed its fortunes. Josep Batlló, owner of the building and an influential textile industrialist, decided to undertake a major redevelopment of his house. Initially he planned to demolish the structure, but eventually, on the advice of architect Antonio Gaudí, he decided to rebuild. In 1904, work began on transforming the building into a unique work of art, which continued until 1906.
ChristianSchd, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Casa Batlló is notable above all for its façade, which at first glance resembles the organic forms of nature, hence the building’s popular name – ‘Casa dels ossos’ (House of Bones). The façade was designed with a complete avoidance of straight lines. It is dominated by undulating shapes, oval windows and flowing carved stone elements that give the whole structure a unique character. One of the most distinctive elements of the façade is the mosaic made of broken ceramic tiles, the so-called trencadís, which changes colour from golden orange tones to green-blue tones. The arched roof is often compared to the back of a dragon, which corresponds to the Catalan legend of St George defeating the mythical creature. The tower with the cross on top is meant to symbolise St George’s spear thrust into the beast’s back.
Gaudí, like few architects, was obsessed with light and its effect on space. One of his most innovative ideas was to create a central atrium that allowed natural light into the building. The walls of the atrium were covered with blue tiles that vary in colour intensity depending on their height, allowing all floors to be evenly lit. The atrium acted not only as a skylight, but also as a ventilation element. The wooden window frames could be opened in any way to allow air to circulate throughout the building.
The interiors of Casa Batlló are stunning in their diversity. One of the most exceptional rooms is the loft, which originally served a utilitarian function. It housed laundries and storerooms. Gaudí designed the space with a series of arches that resemble the backbone of a dragon, which fits perfectly with the building’s theme. The main floor of Casa Batlló, with an area of over 700 square metres, was the residence of the Batlló family. It is the most representative part of the building, accessed by an entrance hall with ceilings resembling turtle shells. This part of the house contains private offices and a dining room. Particularly noteworthy is the mushroom-shaped fireplace, which provides a secluded area for intimate conversations.
One of the most interesting architectural features of Casa Batlló is the roof terrace. There are four unique chimneys designed to prevent backflow. However, it is the roof in the form of a dragon’s back that is the highlight of the building’s finial. After Josep Batlló’s death in 1934, the building passed to his wife and then his children. In 1954, the property was sold to the insurance company Seguros Iberia, which adapted it for its offices. In the following years, Casa Batlló underwent numerous renovations, restoring its original colours and details.
In 2002, on the occasion of the International Year of Gaudí, Casa Batlló was opened to the public for the first time. Since then, the building has become hugely popular, attracting crowds of tourists from all over the world and becoming one of Barcelona’s iconic landmarks. Two years later, during the building’s centenary celebrations, more floors were restored. In 2005, Casa Batlló was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since then, it has served as a museum, as well as a venue rented out for various events. Due to its unique beauty and central location, Casa Batlló is the venue for many prestigious meetings and celebrations.
Casa Batlló is not just a building – it is a symbol of Antoni Gaudí’s innovation, creativity and genius. His bold design decisions, incredible attention to detail and ability to harmoniously combine art and nature have made Casa Batlló one of the most important monuments of modernist architecture in the world.
Source: casabatllo.es, mybarcelona.co.uk
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