Casa Terrades, also commonly known as Casa de les Punxes, is one of the most emblematic modernist buildings in Barcelona. A feat not so easy to pull, as Barcelona is the city in the world with the largest amount of modernist architecture.
Casa de les Punxes is a highlight in the busy modernist landscape of Barcelona for representing all the aesthetic values of catalan modernism.
A fairy-tale like building in the center of Barcelona you can’t miss.
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Modernism, the style that shaped Barcelona
Casa de les Punxes was built by Josep Puig i Cadafalch. He was one of the lead architects of the modernist movement (along with Gaudí and Doménech i Muntaner).
This style took Barcelona by storm in the late 19th and early 20th century.
The modernist style in architecture flourished in Barcelona in part thanks to the blooming bourgeoisie, who had the resources to fund the most outrageous projects in order to show their power and wealth.
The Eixample district became the “it” place to display the new modernist creations.
Anatomy of Casa de les Punxes
To begin with, the location is pretty singular. It occupies an entire triangular and irregular block in the usually square blocks of the Eixample district.
The architect was appointed to the project by textile industrialist Bartomeu Terradas i Mont in 1903, who had fathered three sisters: Rosa, Josefa and Angela.
Wrought iron, brick, stone and ceramic became the main materials of use, as well as the inclusion of symbolic representations of catalan culture.
Finding inspiration in the medieval Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, the architect came up with a complex of 3 houses, each designed to fit the style and personality of the 3 sisters.
TIP: Entrance to Casa de les Punxes is included free with the Barcelona Pass, a tourist card that features free entrance to more than 20 top attractions
Casa Amatller and other projects
Puig i Cadafalch also built other iconic landmarks in Barcelona such as Els Quatre Gats, an emblematic meeting place for artists and intellectuals in the Belle Epoque.
He also built the Casa Pich i Pon in Plaça Catalunya and most notably Casa Amatller, located right next to Casa Batlló, by rival architect Antoni Gaudí.
Visiting Casa de les Punxes
During the guided visit, you’ll be able to witness the main spaces of the house. These include the foyer, one of the main apartments and the fabulous rooftop.
Unfortunately, the furniture was not kept. However, the original floors and ceilings were restored, as well as lamps, stained glass windows and wrought iron ornaments.
The rooftop terrace
Finally, the visit concludes in the rooftop terrace, one of the most interesting places of the house. Prepare for outstanding views of the surroundings as well as the chance to visit the top part of the 6 towers that make up its structure.
You can choose to take the self guided visit with audioguide or the guided visit with an English speaking expert.
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The legend of Sant Jordi
The image of Sant Jordi (Saint George) was included in the design of the house. In fact, it’s visible in one of the façades.
Also, part of the visit includes a multimedia installation about the history and legend of Sant Jordi, patron saint of Catalonia.
Opening hours
Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Casa de les Punxes is closed until further notice.
Location
Address: Diagonal Avenue 420, 08037.
Metro: Diagonal (L5) and Verdaguer (L4 and L5)
Bus: 6, 33 and 34
