Casa Amatller

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The facade's stepped gable is a direct stylistic nod to 17th-century Dutch guild houses, rare in Barcelona's architecture.

2. 2

   Antoni Amatller was a professional photographer, and the building contains a specialized darkroom and a vast collection of glass-plate negatives.

3. 3

   The building's symbol, a dragon, is incorporated into the stonework as a visual pun on the surname 'Amatller'.

4. 4

   The interior retains a rare 'Hispanomoresque' style fireplace designed by Cadafalch.

5. 5

   The residence was one of the first in Barcelona to be electrified and fitted with an elevator.

Overview

Casa Amatller is a landmark Modernista building designed by architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch between 1898 and 1900 for the chocolatier Antoni Amatller. The building represents the 'Manzana de la Discordia' (Block of Discord) along with neighboring works by Gaudí and Domènech i Montaner. The facade features a distinctive stepped gable inspired by Dutch architectural styles, decorated with colorful ceramics and intricate stone carvings. Visitors can tour the preserved ground floor and mezzanine, which house original 19th-century furniture, stained glass, and decorative arts. The building serves as the headquarters for the Fundació Institut Amatller d'Art Hispànic. The on-site chocolate café highlights the building's historical connection to the Amatller chocolate dynasty. The architecture combines Gothic-inspired structural elements with industrial-age craftsmanship and Catalan decorative motifs.

Insider tips

• Book guided tours in advance as visitor capacity in the historic rooms is strictly limited.

• Try the authentic hot chocolate at the ground-floor café, which honors the original Amatller chocolate brand.

• Check the schedule for temporary exhibitions, as these often allow access to areas of the house not included in the standard tour.