Discover Casa Vicens: Gaudí’s First Masterpiece in Barcelona
Barcelona-based travel journalist and Spain expert Isabella Noble recommends an enthralling, off-radar monument for travelers keen to learn about the great Modernista architect Antoni Gaudí, with one of Barcelona’s loveliest neighborhoods right on the doorstep.
Adored by both local residents and millions of curious annual visitors, Barcelona’s landmark Modernista monuments are just as key to the fabric of the city as the tantalizing wonders of Catalan gastronomy.
Why Visit Casa Vicens?
As one delves into the colorful realm of Antoni Gaudí’s architecture, Casa Vicens stands out as a lesser-known gem, located in the charming Gràcia neighborhood. This UNESCO-listed site was Gaudí’s very first independent commission, completed between 1883 and 1885 for wealthy trader Manuel Vicens i Montaner.
It took a pioneering three-year restoration project to convert Casa Vicens into a visitable monument, led by respected modern-day architects José Antonio Martínez Lapeña, Elías Torres, and David García. The house opened to the public in 2017, showcasing one of the earliest masterpieces of Catalonia’s Modernisme movement.
A Unique Architectural Experience
Walk along Carrer de les Carolines, and you cannot miss the striking turreted mansion adorned with rust-red walls and intricate yellow-and-aqua tiling. The house immerses visitors in a vibrant display of design that combines Moorish, neoclassical, and various Asian-inspired architectural styles.
From the lush palm-filled gardens to the colorful bathrooms, every corner of Casa Vicens is alive with creativity and elegance. The distinctive marigold tiling mirrors the flowers that thrived in the 1880s, while the elaborate iron gates evoke local fan palms.
Inside Casa Vicens
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by grand dining rooms furnished with original Gaudí-designed wooden furniture and a tranquil covered porch complemented by a tinkling fountain. Exploration continues on the upper floors, which boast ornate family bedrooms and a sun-drenched terrace.
Notably, Gaudí only designed half of the building seen today. The eastern section was completed by architect Joan Baptista Serra de Martínez in 1925, integrating modern elements while harmonizing with Gaudí’s original intentions.
Exploring Gràcia
After immersing in the colors and designs of Casa Vicens, wander through the lively streets of Gràcia. This area is renowned for its village-like plazas, buzzing vermouth bars, stylish boutiques, and charming coffee shops. Indulge in the local flavors and vibrant atmosphere that this neighborhood has to offer.
Tips For Visiting Casa Vicens
Open daily from 10 a.m. (with seasonal closing times), Casa Vicens is easily accessible via Barcelona’s efficient metro (take L3 to Fontana or Lesseps). It is advisable to purchase tickets in advance, especially for guided tours led by engaging experts who will enrich your understanding of this architectural wonder.
