Casa Milá in Barcelona

The Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi has enriched the city of Barcelona with his great works of art. The Sagrada Familia, Parc Guell and the famous “houses” represent a destination that is a must see for any savvy tourist. It might be interesting to bring a camera as some of these creations are so spectacular that you might not believe your own eyes. Foe example, the Casa Milá is especially fantastic.

Most commonly known as “La Pedrera”, the Casa Milá is one of the most photographed sites in the city and often acts as a symbol in Art History books and on Barcelona tourist guides. Today, this building is so appreciated that it is considered as a Cultural Heritage site. Its construction dates back to the early 1900s (between 1906 and 1912) and Gaudi’s aim was to test the concept of a piece of art posing as a house (and vice versa). This bold intention was not entirely understood by the purchaser of the work and failed to recognize the great value of the building; a fate that occurs to many great artists and works of art. Disconcerted because of the numerous design changes since the first draft, Gaudi decided to stop work. The idea, in fact, was to extend the building in a way that the style of this building would influence the whole city’s architecture (in which today you can find accommodation such as Hotel barcelone). Even by the inhabitants of the city, the building was not very well appreciated and the Casa Milá did not receive much value or dignity. From this low consideration comes the nickname, which the building is also known by today, “La Pedrera” (“the rock”), considering it heavy and with no artistic meaning.

The house is composed of numerous stone walls and paintings. The main façade is full of balconies with undulating forms and many cast iron fixtures. This building is typical of Gaudì, continuing his research in curved lines and abolishing straight lines. Every detail tends to sway and be curved; all the balconies as well as the very famous chimneys on the roof, which are a real symbol of Barcelona, are rounded. Internally, the Casa Milá offers an apartment furnished in accordance with the taste of the twentieth century. And in the attic, the Espai Gaudi is located; a museum exhibition on the works of the famous artist.

‘La Pedrera’ is open every day from 10am to 8pm and is located in Passeig de Gracia n. 92. In this area (the Eixample barrio) you can find dozens of excellent places for accommodation; one of the many hotels Barcelone. L’Eixample district is pretty central and allows quick access to all the attractions of the city. Passeig de Gracia also gives the possibility of a nice walk admiring the shop windows of dozens of important stores from the best known brands in the world.

No Comments

No comments yet.

Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.