Brief history of the Malagrida House
Casa Malagrida is a multi-family modernist house located on Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona. It was built by the Catalan businessman Manuel Malagrida, who made his fortune in the tobacco trade with Argentina. The architect Joaquim Codina was in charge of constructing this beautiful palace-type building.
The Facade
The façade of Casa Malagrida is quite striking. It looks like a small neoclassical palace but it is actually a multi-family modernist house. The sculptural details are repeated throughout the façade, starting with the attractive balconies on the upper floors – closed with modernist-style wrought iron balustrades – and the columns that support the openings on the upper floor and also on the main floor. The two large windows on both sides of a magnificent central balcony, also decorated with sculptural details, stand out here.
The interior
The interior of Casa Malagrida is also impressive. Decorated in white marble with gray veins, the lobby is dominated by an imposing curved staircase with typically modernist shapes. The gold-framed frescoes on the ceiling are an example of the building's eclectic style.
The local guide program
The Malagrida House is part of the Local Guide Program, which offers guided tours of the building. This is a great way to learn more about the history of the house and the life of Manuel Malagrida. The tour includes a visit to the Palau Malagrida, which was the residence of Manuel Malagrida and is now a museum.
Conclusion
La Casa Malagrida is a must-see for any visitor to Barcelona. With its impressive façade and luxurious interiors, it is a great example of modernist architecture. The guided tour of the house is a great way to learn more about the history of the house and the life of Manuel Malagrida. So if you are in Barcelona, be sure to visit the amazing Casa Malagrida!
