27/08/2024
5 modernist wonders of Barcelona
that often go unnoticed
Barcelona is world-renowned for its modernist architecture, with Antoni Gaudí as its greatest exponent, the creator of icons such as the Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló. However, the richness of modernism in this city goes far beyond these popular and touristy monuments.
At BYPILLOW, we want you to discover other equally fascinating spots that are often unjustly overlooked. We invite you to join us on a tour of 5 modernist gems that rarely appear in travel guides.
A magical architectural style
The most magical aspect of Catalan modernism is that its buildings managed to evoke the sinuous forms of nature, demonstrating that architecture is also capable of sculpting dreams and imagination. This artistic and architectural movement, which emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, manifests itself through forms that are as impossible as they are organic and undulating, the use of innovative materials such as iron and glass, and exuberant ornamentation that includes floral and animal motifs.
Architects like Antoni Gaudí, Josep Puig i Cadafalch, among others, left an architectural legacy in Barcelona, with many of their works recognized as World Heritage Sites. Modernism was a reflection of the cultural resurgence of Catalonia, known as the Renaixença. A period of splendor from which we fortunately preserve a rich legacy.
Lesser-known modernist monuments
Here are 5 of these modernist treasures of Barcelona that we are sure will surprise you.
Palau Macaya
Location: Passeig de Sant Joan, 108
Palau Macaya, designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch in 1901, is an iconic example of Catalan modernism in Barcelona. Its white facade is a display of sgraffito and detailed sculptures that contrast wonderfully with the simplicity of the whole.
These decorative elements, the work of Eusebi Arnau and Alfons Juyol, give the building a unique elegance. Besides its architectural value, it hosts a cultural center that organizes exhibitions and events. If you wish to explore its interior, it is possible to book free visits to the building, allowing you to enjoy its impressive history in a more intimate and personalized experience.
Casa Planells
Location: Avingunda Diagonal, 332
Casa Planells, designed by Josep Maria Jujol in 1924, is a splendid example of late modernism. This residential building stands out for its innovative curvilinear facade that breaks with conventional straight lines. Its undulating balconies and sober decoration reflect Jujol’s mastery in working with fluid forms.
Although it remains a private property and does not offer guided tours, its imposing architecture can be admired from the outside, revealing the evolution of modernism towards more abstract and functional forms.
Casa de les Punxes
Location: Avinguda Diagonal, 420
Casa de les Punxes, also known as Casa Terradas, is one of the most iconic constructions in Barcelona. Designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch in 1905, this modernist building stands out for its pointed towers that give it a medieval castle-like appearance, a feature that earned it its popular name.
The facade is rich in details, with neo-Gothic influences, mosaics, and sculptures.
Although guided tours are not currently offered, Casa de les Punxes remains a key architectural landmark in Barcelona.
Casa Comalat
Location: Avinguda Diagonal, 442
Casa Comalat, designed by architect Salvador Valeri i Pupurull and built between 1909 and 1911, is one of the most original works of Catalan modernism in Barcelona. Located on Avinguda Diagonal, this building stands out for its two contrasting facades, each with a unique style that reflects the duality of modernism.
The main facade, facing Avinguda Diagonal, is decorated with undulating elements, colorful mosaics, and wrought iron balconies that evoke the style of Antoni Gaudí.
Torre Bellesguard
Location: Carrer de Bellesguard, 16-20
Also known as Casa Figueres, Torre Bellesguard is a lesser-known work by Gaudí, built between 1900 and 1909. This building combines elements of modernism and Catalan Gothic, with towers and pinnacles that evoke a medieval castle. This work is a bit off the center but is well worth a visit. Surrounded by meticulously designed gardens, it offers a natural setting that complements its unique architecture, and its interior can be visited.
Discover the Hidden Modernism of Barcelona
Exploring the lesser-known modernist monuments of Barcelona is an opportunity to discover the city from a different perspective. While Gaudí’s most famous works attract crowds, these hidden gems offer a deeper immersion into Catalan modernism. If you’re planning a getaway to Barcelona, we encourage you to venture beyond the usual monuments and discover these architectural marvels that the city has to offer. Let yourself be surprised by the magic of modernism around every corner of the city! 🙂
If you’re looking to stay in the heart of Barcelona, BYPILLOW offers a wide variety of hotels in central Barcelona, as well as family hotels in more residential neighborhoods. From all of them, you can visit all the modernist wonders we’ve just talked about.
And, of course, we encourage you to stay in our centrally located hotels in Barcelona, from where you can visit all these wonders and many more.