Imagine living in a park designed by yourself. That was reality for Antoni Gaudí at Casa Museu Gaudí. Right here, within the enchanting Park Güell, stands a testament to the architect’s genius. Casa Museu Gaudí served as Gaudí’s residence for nearly two decades. From 1906 until late 1925, this house was his home.
But there’s a twist. Gaudí didn’t actually design the house himself. His disciple, Francesc Berenguer, crafted the building between 1903 and 1905. Gaudí signed the project since Berenguer lacked the formal architect title. Initially, it was intended as a show home. It would lure potential buyers to Güell’s garden city project. However, no one bought it. Gaudí purchased it himself in 1906.
Inside Casa Museu Gaudí, you will find a personal glimpse into Gaudí’s life. The museum displays furniture and objects designed by Gaudí. These pieces come from iconic buildings like Casa Batlló and Casa Calvet. Wrought iron elements are also showcased in the garden. These are among the collection’s most valuable items. The collection includes furniture, sculptures, paintings, drawings, and objects from Gaudí’s collaborators.
The house has four floors. The ground and first floors are open to the public. Here, you can explore the exhibits. The basement once served as a pantry. Access to it is now restricted for safety reasons. The upper floor houses offices.
Casa Museu Gaudí opened as a museum on September 28, 1963. The aim was to showcase Gaudí beyond his architectural achievements. It reveals his personal side.
The idea for Park Güell came from Eusebi Güell. He wanted to create a garden city for Barcelona’s bourgeoisie. Gaudí was commissioned to design sixty houses with gardens. But the project stopped in 1914. Only two houses were built. One was for Dr. Trias i Domènech. The other is Casa Museu Gaudí.
After Gaudí’s death in 1926, he bequeathed the house to the Sagrada Família Foundation. They sold it to the Chiappo Arietti couple. Later, the Amics de Gaudí association campaigned to turn it into a museum. Since 1992, the Sagrada Família Foundation has managed the museum.
Josep Maria Garrut directed the museum from its opening until his death in 2008. After a historic agreement with the Barcelona City Council, Barcelona Serveis Municipals took over the museum’s management in 2024. Gaudí’s wish for the Junta to retain ownership was respected.
Stepping inside Casa Museu Gaudí is like stepping back in time. It is an intimate encounter with a genius. The rooms evoke Gaudí’s presence. His spirit lingers in every corner. So, take your time. Absorb the atmosphere. Let the Casa Museu Gaudí inspire you.