The Casa Vicens was the first masterpiece of Gaudi, listed as Unesco World Heritage site since 2005. It has been in restoration for a year, in order to restore the original state of the house. Now reopened, the house is located in the area of Sarrià, less than 15 minutes from our aparthotel for family. Continue reading to discover more about this monument.
A bit of history
It was a summer house for Manel Vicens i Montaner, a stockbroker, and the first project that Gaudi designed and built. It was built in 1883 and, at that period, the Gracia area was still a village, not linked to Barcelona.
The house has changed through time, some modifications have been made. For example, the extension was built by Joan Baptiste Serra de Martínez in 1925, as the garden.
After the restoration work, the house is now accessible for all, with an elevator leading to every floor. Their main concern was to restore Gaudi’s part as it was.
The Visit
The house is composed of five “floors”. First, the basement, which was the coal cellar, now the museum store.
Then, you have the main floor, it was the main living area. You will find here the central dining room, surrounded by porches, the foyer and the smoking room. You will see rooms inspired by oriental culture and also painting by Francesc Torrescassana.
The first floor is more intimate, as it is composed of the family’s bedrooms. A relaxing place with sitting areas and terrace, where you can admire the surrounding garden.
The second floor now hosts the permanent collection of the museum, where you will learn more about the house, the history… This space has changed a lot during the years, especially during the last renovation where walls have been taken down to make this opened room.
Finally, the rooftop, the first accessible rooftop Gaudi did, is the perfect place to escape the city and contemplate the surroundings. It is inspired by Islamic and Asian architecture. You can access the four sides of the building. This area has been modified to be accessible to everyone.
Don’t forget to swing by the garden, inspired by Mediterranean flora. You will see Phoenix and Trachycarpus palms, magnolias, climbing plants… there is also a small temple for Santa Maria, who is honored on the 22nd of May each year. It is part of the house history, as well as Gracia’s.
Prepare your visit
The house is now fully adapted to welcome people with reduced mobility.
You have different possibilities for the tickets:
– The classic, you visit by yourself and pick a time of venue (it is interesting and recommended to pick them on the casa’s website),
– The guided tour. The staff offers 4 languages, Catalan, Spanish, English and French. If you want to have the visit in another language, contact them (contact information at the end of the article)
– The Casa Vicens Gift, you can buy this ticket and come whenever you want. The advantage of this ticket is that you don’t have to pick a time for your visit, as required otherwise.
– Spring night visit ticket, to have a different experience. Enjoy a sunset over the Casa plus the visit.
The museum is organising workshops for the family, such as a Ceramic flower painting one. Have a look at their blog to check any activities!
Tips:
Make sure to come in advance for your visit and keep your ticket all along the visit. Make sure to have your ID for security verification.
You will find a changing room for the littles ones, resting area, lockers,pram storage, Wifi and even a coffee shop.
Casa Vicens:
Carrer de les Carolines, 20, 08012, Barcelona
Hours: Everyday, from 10 am to 8 pm.
Closed: 25th December, 1 and 6 of January.
Email: reserves@casavicens.org
Tel: +34 93 547 59 80
Enjoy your visit and your stay in our family aparthotel near Gracia!
Barcelona with Family 