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Palau Güell: an unmissable Gaudí jewel in the heart of the city


22-1-2025

Located in the Rambla area and near the seafront, you’ll find the opulent Palau Güell. Like Casa Vicens, it’s one of Antoni Gaudí’s earliest commissions and still stands in the city after many years. Surprising from every angle, you must visit it.

History and curious facts

Construction of this imposing building took place between 1886 and 1890. Considering its size, it took very little time, but according to accounts, Gaudí was 34 years old at the time and created more than 15 facade models for the building before arriving at the one we see today.

Commissioned by the businessman Eusebi Güell, the Catalan architect had the collaboration of Francesc Berenguer, who was one of his most loyal assistants. Güell lived there until 1906, when he moved to Casa Larrard in Park Güell, where he remained until his death in 1918.

It was visited by Queen Maria Cristina of Habsburg, King Umberto I of Italy, and US President Grover Cleveland. Moreover, beyond being a unique building in Barcelona, in 1944 it was almost moved to the United States. This was because a millionaire wanted to buy it and take it to his country, stone by stone, but he couldn’t do it despite the different heirs after the businessman’s death in 1918.

Finally, it was acquired by the Barcelona Provincial Council in exchange for a lifelong pension for Mercé Güell (Eusebio’s daughter). She was the one who stipulated that it should never be modified and that the building, as it is today for tourists and residents, should be used for a cultural purpose.

fede
Author, BCN.COM

“Another work by Gaudí to admire in Barcelona. All his style in one place. It is impressive to see how his legacy is maintained to this day and continues to surprise in every detail.”

    A brief description

    This work is full of architectural details and, for example, the facade has three distinct levels. The first is characterized by its two large oval doors, while the second contains the tribune. The two balconies, on the other hand, identify the top floor with a set of five flanked windows.

    Throughout the tour, the entire artistic complex is a mix of Byzantine and Mozarabic art. In turn, inside it has a large central hall that has a dome with small oculi that allow natural light to enter. Inside, you can appreciate it in a unique and truly interesting way.

    What stands out is the large central hall, decorated with furniture and works by artists close to Güell. In what is called the “room of trust,” there was a place to hold concerts and social gatherings.

    Finally, the roof is composed of several chimneys that are decorated with ceramic elements that were later applied to Casa Milà or Casa Batlló. Clearly, it served as inspiration for Gaudí throughout his history as an artist and a place that cannot be missed on your tour of the Ciudad Condal.

    Hours:

    • From April 1st to September 30th: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
    • From October 1st to March 31st: Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

    How to get there:

    • Metro: Liceu, line 3.
    • Bus: lines V13, 59, 91, and 120.