Antoni Gaudí is considered one of the greatest architects of all time and the defining figure of Catalan Modernism. For many travelers, visiting Barcelona means stepping into his world of flowing forms, intricate details, and nature-inspired design.
But did you know that Gaudí built only three works outside of Cataluña? These lesser-known masterpieces are well worth the journey.
Episcopal Palace of Astorga
In the northwestern province of León, Gaudí was commissioned by Bishop Joan Baptista Grau to design a new episcopal palace. Built between 1889 and 1893, the result is a striking Neo-Gothic structure that looks more like a medieval fortress than a bishop’s home.
The palace features four façades, cylindrical towers, pointed arches, and dramatic light-filled interiors. Today, it houses the Museo de los Caminos, showcasing Roman artifacts, pre-Romanesque art, and religious works.
Casa Botines
Also in León, Casa Botines was one of Gaudí’s first major urban projects. Built in 1892 when he was just 39, it was designed as a mixed-use building with shops, offices, and apartments. It became his first tenement-style structure and served as a laboratory of ideas for his later works.
Today, Casa Botines houses a museum dedicated to Gaudí’s life and creative philosophy. Visitors can explore restored historical apartments along with an art collection featuring Spanish paintings, sculptures, and graphic works.
El Capricho
Located in the seaside resort town of Comillas in Cantabria, this villa was built between 1883 and 1885 as the summer residence for a wealthy client.
The name “Capricho” means whim, and the building lives up to it. Bright ceramic tiles decorated with sunflowers wrap around the façade, and musical motifs reflect the owner’s love of music.
Declared a Site of Cultural Interest, El Capricho now operates as a house-museum, offering visitors an intimate look at the beginnings of a genius.
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