If you are a fan of architecture, chocolate, or if you simply find yourself fascinated by anything that is out of the ordinary, Casa Amatller should be added to your list of things to do in Barcelona. Let ShBarcelona explain why.
The brainchild of architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch at the very end of the 19th Century, the house was originally designed for the chocolatier Antoni Amatller. A Modernist marvel, it is located in the district of Eixample and is considered one of the most important architectural landmarks of the city of Barcelona. You will find it right next to another architectural marvel, Casa Batlló.
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Casa Amatller and its surroundings
Photo by: Ulf Liljankoski via Visualhunt.com / CC BY-ND
Located on Passeig de Gràcia, Casa Amatller is in an area of the boulevard called the Illa or Manzana de la Discòrdia. This section is known for containing examples of Modernist buildings built by four of the most famous Modernist architects: Josep Puig i Cadafalch, Antoni Gaudi, Lluís Domènech i Montaner, and Eric Sagnier. The four buildings which represent the movement were inaugurated at very short intervals of each other, emphasizing the relevance of this movement. The result is an interesting stretch of architecture and design, which add to the charm and appeal of Passeig de Gràcia.
Visiting Casa Amatller
As with most of Barcelona’s touristic attractions and organized tours, you must be prepared to queue for access to the house if arriving without pre-booked tickets. An adult ticket price for a standard visit is €15, and if booking online you can select a time slot which also corresponds to the language you wish your tour to be in. Other offers are available, such as an express tour which includes a cup of hot chocolate, for €12. Senior citizens, children, and young adults also get a discount.
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What to look out for
Photo by: monkichichan via Visualhunt / CC BY-NC
Once inside, you will feel as if you have traveled back in time to the 19th century. The opulence and style of the time is apparent in the strong lines that make up the interior of the building. During the tour, visitors get to see the old living quarters of the chocolatier Amatller on the first floor and see how an interior of the time would have been decorated (the ornate furniture is a highlight). Working with the context of the house itself, you can now enjoy a hot chocolate and buy some cocoa-based products, all the while thinking of the chocolatier that resided in the building so many decades ago. Perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
Address: Passeig de Gràcia, 41.
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