This house’s surreal design is a Gaudí classic, with sculptures, tiling and colours that defy traditional conventions.
Casa Milà is a museum and art space in Eixample, just north of the city center. It was designed by Gaudí and built between 1906 and 1912. Both the inside and out have been designed in Gaudí’s signature style, with curved lines, fantastical sculptures and intricate details on everything down to the ventilator shafts on the roof. Today it houses a gallery space for exhibitions. The courtyard, attic, ground floor, roof space and La Pedrera apartment are open to the public as examples of Gaudí’s work.
The building’s nickname, La Pedrera, means “The Quarry” in English. The structure’s rough exterior resembles a quarry. It was built as a private home with apartments for rent on the top floors. It became a UNESCO World Heritage building in 1984.
Admire the exterior of the building from the street. There’s a fee to get inside, and a long wait if you don’t buy tickets in advance. Purchase tickets from the official La Pedrera website.
Pay a little extra for an audio guide. It makes navigating easier and points out hidden details that visitors might otherwise miss.
Take the elevator to the roof. It features views of the surrounding neighborhood, and strange details such as spiraling chimneys. The attic has been turned into a small museum that highlights some of Gaudí’s best works. See drawings, plans and videos.
The apartment has been restored and filled with artworks and furnishings of the time. Many of the particulars, right down to the doorknobs, are original.
Finish in the exhibition space on the ground floor. It features regular art exhibitions from local and international artists. The museum is open every day. It’s easy to reach by public transportation. Four of Gaudí’s buildings line the Passeig de Gràcia, including Casa Batlló, just a short walk down the boulevard.
