Casa Amatller (Amatller House), Barcelona

Amatller House is yet another Modernisme landmark in Barcelona, known for its blend of neo-Gothic and Art Nouveau influences. Along with the Batlló and Lleó Morera houses, it forms part of the so-called "Block of Discord" (named so for the contrasting styles of its modernist buildings). Designed by Josep Puig i Cadafalch between 1898 and 1900 for the wealthy chocolatier Antoni Amatller Costa, it features a distinctive stepped gable inspired by Dutch architecture, vibrant ceramic tiles, and a wrought-iron balcony.

The building's façade includes sculptures by Eusebi Arnau i Mascort, depicting biblical themes and medieval legends. The grand entrance showcases motifs of Saint George fighting the dragon, as well as allegories representing music, painting, architecture, and sculpture. The façade’s pinkish color alludes to Amatller’s profession, while the gallery on the fourth floor is adorned with Gothic-inspired columns.

Declared a national monument in 1976, the house remains remarkably well-preserved, thanks to continuous ownership by the Amatller family. Today, it functions as a historic house museum, café, and the Amatller Institute for Hispanic Art. Visitors can explore the interior, which retains its original furnishings, including the dining room, bedrooms, music room, and scullery. The Catalan Art Nouveau decor is visible in the building's main staircase, lobby, and inner courtyard.

The Amatller Institute, located on the upper floors, houses an extensive library dedicated to Spanish art. The mansion is open for guided tours, complete with multilingual audio guides that provide insight into its history, architecture, and the Amatller family legacy.

Tip:
Having explored the house, you can unwind at the café on the ground floor, indulging in a cup of coffee or a light snack – or better yet, a nice cup of hot chocolate paired with a soft bread toast. There's plenty of chocolate to choose from, from chocolate bars to chocolate-coated nuts to cute little boxes of chocolate candies and more – a perfect edible souvenir from Barcelona for a sweet tooth waiting for you back home!