Casa Amatller is one of Barcelona's most famous and recognizable landmarks. The structure belongs to the Manzana de la Discordia, or Block of Discord, which features famous architecture designed by the fathers of modernista architecture: Gaudí, Domènech i Muntaner, and the designer of Casa Amatller, Josep Puig i Cadafalch. Upon visiting the house, visitors will get to enjoy the preserved modernist interior, complete with original furniture. Please note that visitors must make reservations to enter and tour the exquisite house.
The name for this architecture-rich attraction makes reference to the golden apple of discord in Greek mythology given its unparalleled beauty. Comprised of three spectacular structures, the block plays host to what some would argue is Barcelona's most recognizable group of buildings. It is home to Gaudì's Casa Batlló, Domènich i Montaner's Casa Lleo Morera, and Puig i Cadafalch's Casa Amatller, all of which are famous for exemplifying the Modernista architectural movement. Stroll between the three at your own pace, but be sure to visit as no trip to Barcelona is complete without a detour to the Manzana de la Discordia.
Celebrated architect from Catalonia, Antoni Gaudí, mesmerizes with what is considered to be one of his finest works, Torre Bellesguard. Also popular as Casa Figures, this imposing mansion remains a fine example of Modernist architectural style, with Renaissance elements beautifully embedded in its design. Built between the years 1900 and 1909, Bellesguard was formerly the site of Aragon's king, Martin's vacation home. Gaudí's assistants, Domènec Sugrañes i Gras and Joan Rubio, had a pivotal role to play in designing the various frescoes and mosaics of the manor. The magnificent structure can be explored through guided and audio tours, which allow visitors to survey the sprawling attic, intricately carved roof and the arresting tower featuring an elaborate cross designed by Gaudí. The ornately furnished hall at the castle remains a fine venue for weddings and other intimate ceremonies.
An architectural and historical landmark of the city, the Poblenou Cemetery is a popular attraction for its notable burials and numerous statues and monuments. Constructed in the early 19th Century, it was designed by Italian architect Antonio Ginesi and is divided into two sections; the normal burial niches are located at the front of the cemetery while the more extravagant area of mausolea and monuments which catered to the wealthier population of the city, are at the back. The cemetery is visited by a large number of tourists from around the world to admire its architectural beauty and the nostalgic aura that surrounds the place. The Kiss of Death sculpture, located in this cemetery, particularly attracts the attention of each visitor because of the bittersweet undertone that it gives to the observer. It depicts a marble sculpture of a skeleton planting a kiss on young man's forehead as it prepares to lift him away. A visit to this cemetery, surely gives a very enchanting experience to the visitor.
Located in the heart of Barcelona is the striking Casa Rocamora, one of the largest buildings in the area and a beautiful example of Spanish architecture in the early 20th-Century. This building has numerous Neo-Gothic features including its stone facade, great domed towers, turrets, semicircular windows, and balconies. This monolithic building is reminiscent of medieval castles and should not be missed when in the city.
Located in central Barcelona, the Sinagoga Mayor de Barcelona is one of the oldest synagogues in Europe. It sits facing southeast, pointing to Jerusalem. The architecture of the Sinagoga Mayor de Barcelona dates back to the third century, and excavations have unearthed first-century Roman walls made of stones from Carthage. A historic treasure, the synagogue has two rooms, the foyer and the main room, and a healthy number of artifacts on display. It was converted to a museum in 2002 and now welcomes guests both local and visiting to learn about the Jewish history of this lovely city.