Visiting the Gaudí House Museum
The Gaudí House Museum served as the private residence of the celebrated Barcelona architect Antoni Gaudí for 20 years, from 1906 until late 1925. It sits in the heart of Parc Güell, a garden in Barcelona that is essential for its lush greenery and creations also signed by Gaudí. These include benches and objects inspired by local flora and fauna, featuring undulating forms covered in mosaics. The park was originally intended to be a residential project inspired by the English garden city model. Its owner and patron, Eusebi Güell i Bacigalupi, commissioned Gaudí to design a 60-home development at the end of the 19th century. The project was quickly abandoned, and only two homes were ever completed.
What is the Gaudí House Museum?
The building predates the park itself and was designed by architect Francesc Berenguer. When Eusebi Güell launched his garden city project, the house was selected as a show home to help potential buyers understand the vision. Once the project was canceled, Gaudí decided to purchase the building to use as his primary residence. The architecture reflects his signature style, featuring a distinct turret, intricate window ornamentation, and mosaic-tiled chimneys.
A glimpse into Gaudí's private life
The house is spread over four floors, two of which are open to the public. They house collections of furniture, blueprints, and photographs that document some of Gaudí's most significant works, including Casa Batlló, Casa Milà, and Casa Vicens. Additionally, two rooms have been recreated to match their original state from when the architect lived here: his bedroom and his bathroom. From the rooftop terrace, you have a clear view of Parc Güell.
Opening hours
*Information subject to change
I was curious to check out this house, and I was a bit disappointed. I think it is a shame that you cannot access it directly and for free, because the interior visit takes about thirty minutes. While it is interesting to immerse yourself in Gaudi's daily life, the tour lacks a bit of information. In my opinion, you can easily just stick to the pretty exterior facade.