Modernisme

Catalan Modernism developed in Catalonia, especially in Barcelona, over roughly three decades, approximately between 1885 and 1920. Although it is a highly eclectic movement, it stood out particularly for its architecture, characterized by inspiration from nature and organic forms, as well as the use of curved lines and asymmetry.

Modernism was a cultural movement that emerged in the West at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century. In addition to its artistic side, in Catalonia the movement took on a political dimension, driven by the desire of Catalan modernists to create a modern and national culture.

The Architects of Modernism... and Other Artists

The most important modernist architect was Antoni Gaudí, who left an impressive artistic legacy in the city of Barcelona, with unique works such as the Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera and Park Güell. Another great master who embraced Modernism was Lluís Domènech i Montaner, who, in addition to Casa Lleó i Morera, designed the vast complex of pavilions at the Hospital de Sant Pau and the original Palau de la Música Catalana. Finally, we must highlight the work of Josep Puig i Cadafalch, who often combined the modernist style with Gothic elements from northern Europe, as seen in Casa Amatller or Casa de les Punxes. Many of these buildings are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

But Modernism also found expression in painting and in the design of posters and furniture. To view modernist painting, you can visit the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, and for a more comprehensive view of the movement, visit the Museu del Modernisme Català, which brings together artworks, furniture, and everyday objects.

Modernist Route

Many modernist buildings are located in the Eixample district, around the Passeig de Gràcia axis, which is covered by both the Red and Blue Route of the Barcelona Bus Turístic. From the Casa Batlló – Fundació Antoni Tàpies stop, you can visit Casa Batlló, Casa Amatller, Casa Lleó i Morera and the Museu del Modernisme Català, while the Passeig de Gràcia – La Pedrera stop brings you closer to La Pedrera and Casa de les Punxes.

The Blue Route of the Barcelona Bus Turístic has several stops from which you can visit major modernist works, such as the Sagrada Família and the Hospital de Sant Pau from the Sagrada Família stop; Park Güell from the stop of the same name; Casa Vicens if you get off in Gràcia; or the Güell Pavilions, located on Avinguda de Pedralbes, at the Palau Reial – Pavellons Güell stop. If you get off at the Tramvia Blau – Tibidabo stop, you can also visit Torre Bellesguard

With the Red Route of the Barcelona Bus Turístic, you can see modernist works located in Ciutat Vella, such as Palau Güell, which you can reach on foot from the Colom – Museu Marítim stop, or the impressive Palau de la Música Catalana, accessible from Plaça de Catalunya or the Barri Gòtic stop.