Casa Batlló – Antoni Gaudí’s Dragon House: About, History & Visitor Info
Explore Gaudí’s fantastical “Dragon House” on Passeig de Gràcia. This guide covers Casa Batlló’s story, architecture, highlights, ticket types, hours, and practical tips for a smooth visit.
About Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is one of Antoni Gaudí’s most imaginative works, a total remodel of a 19th-century building completed in the early 1900s. Its undulating façade, mosaic “trencadís” skin, bone-like balconies, and scaled roof ridge suggest a dragon—earning it the nickname “the Dragon House.” Inside, flowing lines, light-wells, and custom details showcase Gaudí’s mastery of form, color, and natural ventilation. The house sits at Passeig de Gràcia 43 in Barcelona’s Eixample on the famed Illa de la Discòrdia.
Why It’s Special
Gaudí designed everything—from façade and skylights to doors, handles, and furniture—creating a seamless, nature-inspired interior. Expect a compact but rich visit with layered storytelling via multimedia and audio guidance.
Plan Your Time
Most visits take 60–90 minutes. Early morning or late afternoon is calmer. Timed entry keeps flows comfortable, and premium options add extras like exclusive access or live music.
Architectural Highlights
Façade & Roof
The shimmering mosaic façade recalls water and marine life, while the ceramic roof evokes a dragon’s back. The turret and cross are often read as Saint George’s lance—a Catalan legend echo.
- Wave-like stonework and skeletal balconies (“mask” shapes).
- Color gradient tiles and scaled ridge along the rooftop.
- Seasonal lighting that dramatizes curves after dusk.
Interiors
Light wells are tiled in deeper blues at the top and lighter tones below to balance daylight down the shaft. Windows scale in size floor-by-floor to regulate brightness and air flow.
Doors and railings follow ergonomic, organic lines; woodwork and glass ripple to guide movement through the space.
Brief History & Timeline
- Original building (19th c.) — A conventional Eixample house stands at No. 43.
- 1904–1906 — Antoni Gaudí radically remodels the structure for industrialist Josep Batlló.
- 20th century — Conservation and updates maintain the residence and showcase interiors.
- 2005 — Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site within “Works of Antoni Gaudí.”
- Today — A premier modernist landmark with innovative, multimedia visitor experiences.
Tickets & Experiences
Standard Entry (Self-Audio)
Explore at your own pace with engaging audio and multimedia. Ideal for first-time visitors.
Be the First (Early Access)
Enter before regular hours for quieter rooms and better photos across the noble floor and rooftop.
Night Visit (Welcome Drink)
See the house after hours with a relaxed atmosphere—great lighting and fewer crowds.
Live Music on the Roof
Seasonal evenings feature music atop the dragon-back roof—iconic views and ambiance.
Tip: Time-slot tickets reduce queues. Prices can vary by date and entry type—check your chosen product page at booking. Consider combining Casa Batlló with other Gaudí sites on the same day.
Visitor Info & Practical Tips
Location & Access
Address: Passeig de Gràcia 43, 08007 Barcelona. Nearest metro/train: Passeig de Gràcia (L2/L3/L4 + Rodalies). Wide sidewalks make approach easy; the entrance is on the boulevard façade.
Opening Hours
Generally open daily with extended hours; last entries vary seasonally. Check your chosen ticket for exact time slots.
Visit Duration
Allow about 60–90 minutes. Add time if you plan photos on the roof terrace or premium experiences.
Accessibility
Step-free routes and lifts are available in key areas; staff can advise on the most convenient path.
Photography
Non-flash photography is typically allowed unless otherwise indicated. Be mindful on narrow stairs and terraces.
What to Bring
Comfortable shoes for stairs/terraces, water in warm months, and headphones if you prefer app-based audio.
Nice to Know
Pair with Other Gaudí Houses
Consider a multi-house itinerary—Casa Batlló with La Pedrera (Casa Milà) and Casa Vicens—or join a guided “3 Houses” tour.
Weather & Crowds
Early or late slots are quietest. In peak season, book ahead and arrive a little before your time for a smooth start.
Shops & Extras
The on-site store features Gaudí and Barcelona design items; check for special evening events on the roof.
Ready to Visit Casa Batlló?
Choose the entry that fits your style—standard, early access, or atmospheric night visits with music. Secure a time slot for a relaxed experience.
