Casa Batllo (Barcelona)

The Casa Batllo has been something of a 'best kept secret' in Barcelona, and is one of the least visited creations of the celebrated architect Gaudi. This is wholly due to the fact that it is still a privately owned residence, located at Passeig de Gracia in the plush L'Eixample district of the city. It has all the hallmarks of true Gaudi exuberance and the exterior facade is a fantastical image resembling gigantic skulls and bones, topped off with haphazard mosaic ceramic tiling. It really is an architectural tour de force and on cheap city breaks in Barcelona, you will delight in the sheer playfulness of its design.

 

The building has gigantic bay windows which provide a symphony of natural light into the interior, and visitors will be immediately struck by the spectacular winding staircase as they enter. There are fairytale features aplenty to enjoy such as a medieval style turret, swinging chimneys and even roof tiling that resembles a dragon's spine. The main living quarters have elaborately carved sandstone walls with undulating curves and archways that seem to suggest that you are stuck inside a huge illuminated cave. On weekends in Barcelona, you can climb up to the attic and roof terrace and look down into a central rotunda which seems to sparkle in a multitude of different hues. 

 

On short breaks in Barcelona, you should take advantage of an audio guided tour of Casa Batllo where you will be astounded by its visual quality while being regaled with a host of interesting facts and figures about Gaudi and his painstaking methods. In addition, there is also a small exhibition of art and a souvenir shop selling top quality gifts and Gaudi memorabilia. If you are in the mood for yet more Gaudi eccentricity, walk along Passeig de Gracia to his later creation at nearby La Pedrera, a similarly eye catching masterpiece of fairytale and fantasy.