Gazing upon Casa Antònia Serra i Mas, one might almost hear the echoes of 1926. That’s the year this striking noucentista building first graced the corner of Pere IV and Pallars streets. Commissioned by Antònia Serra i Mas, the Casa Antònia Serra i Mas stands as a testament to architect Ramon Puig i Gairalt’s vision. Its unique triangular footprint, rounded edges, and culminating cupola give it a distinct presence in the Poblenou neighborhood. Locals even affectionately call it the “Flatiron del Poblenou,” drawing a comparison to New York City’s iconic skyscraper. Casa Antònia Serra i Mas’s balconies, a mix of balustrades and iron railings, curve gracefully around the building’s prow-like form. Look closely at the facade. You’ll notice intricate sgraffito work, a hallmark of the noucentista style. These decorative elements, featuring floral patterns, climb the building’s walls, framing windows and adding a touch of elegance. The ground floor, constructed with Montjuïc stone, provides a solid base for the ornate levels above. Over the years, Casa Antònia Serra i Mas has undergone some renovations. A major restoration took place between 2013 and 2014, bringing back the original viewing platform and refreshing other facade elements. This work, partly funded by Barcelona’s City Council, cost 250,000 euros and helped preserve this local treasure. But Casa Antònia Serra i Mas isn’t just a beautiful building to admire. It’s a vibrant part of the community. The historic Ferreteria Bonet, a hardware store that has operated on the ground floor since 1952, adds a layer of local history. It’s a reminder that within these walls, life and commerce have carried on for nearly a century. Imagine the stories these walls could tell.
Església Nostra Senyora de la Mercè
The Virgin’s gaze from the dome. A silent sentinel overlooking Barcelona. This is the Església Nostra Senyora de la Mercè.