Casa Vicens
Constructed between 1883 and 1885 by order of Mr. Manuel Vicens, Casa Vicens is one of the first masterpieces of Modernism, the anticipation of the later work of Gaudí and a vivid example of the airs of aesthetic renewal that were breathed at the end From the 19th century to all of Europe.Originally, it was projected as a holiday home with a garden, in which geometric shapes and rich ornamentation, inspired by the surrounding vegetation, and this reference to natural elements is not only present on the outside of the house but also, by integrating different decorative arts - ironwork, painting, ceramics, carpentry, mural decoration, etc. - Gaudí succeeds in having nature penetrate the inside of the house, thereby creating continuity between the exterior and interior space.
If you look beyond the decoration you'll see the historicist Mudejar style as well as the forms which are Indian and Japanese in inspiration. Gaudí paid particular attention to the corners of the building, which were ridged in order to avoid the austere appearance of classical architecture. This orientalised exoticism was greeted with enthusiasm by the elite classes at the time in Barcelona. This is why it should come as no surprise that Gaudí's first building gained a much more enthusiastic reception than his later landmarks buildings, such as " La Pedrera".
Opening hours:
From October 1 to March 31:
Monday from 10:00 am to 3:00pm. From Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00am to 7:00pm. Last entrance one hour and 20’ before closure.
From April 1, to September 30:
From Monday to Sunday, From 10:00am to 8:00pm. Last entrance one hour and 20’ before closure.
Closed: December 25th, January 1st, January 6th.
Address:
Carrer de les Carolines, 24, 08012
Barcelona
