Torre de Bellesguard

Often referred to as Casa Figueres, Torre de Bellesguard is undeservedly the least known of a number of spectacular buildings in Barcelona designed by ingenious modernist architect Antoni Gaudí. It was completed in 1909 on the site of a former royal palace high above Barcelona in the Serra de Collserola and the eccentric construction is of stone and slate. Designed to resemble a fortified medieval castle, Bellesguard has gabled windows peering out at odd angles, narrow walkways, crenellated walls and a tower topped with yellow and red mosaics representing the Catalan flag. Its interior is awash with a striking mixture of Gothic design and Art Nouveau detailing, from vaulted halls to stairwells smothered with ornamental tiles and lit by exquisite stained glass. An observation deck on the upper floor leads to breathtaking views over the rooftops of Barcelona. 
During construction of the new house, Gaudí rerouted an old path and built a viaduct in the grounds that became known as the Arcades de Bellesguard; his collaborator Domènec Sugrañes i Gras completed the gardens, the porter’s lodge and main steps up to the house, adding the fish mosaics that adorn the main entrance. 

Practical Info

Carrer de Bellesguard 16, Sant Gervasi. Open Tue–Sun 10am–3pm. Admission adults €9, seniors & children under 18 €7.20, under age eight free. Bus No 58 from Placa Catalunya to Tibidabo. The interior of the Torre de Bellesguard is not navigable by wheelchair.