Attic

Explore the Attic of Casa Batlló in Barcelona, Spain. Discover Gaudí's catenary arches, the 'Dragon's Belly,' and rich Modernist history.

Overview

Step into the 'Attic' of Casa Batlló in Barcelona, Spain, and discover a space where function and artistic genius beautifully intertwine. Often referred to as the 'Dragon's Belly' or 'Dragon's Ribcage,' this unique area, known locally as the 'Loft' or 'Service Area,' was originally designed for practical purposes like laundry and storage for the building's residents. Yet, in the hands of Antoni Gaudí, even the most utilitarian spaces were transformed into masterpieces of organic architecture and light. It stands as a testament to Gaudí's philosophy that every detail, regardless of its primary purpose, deserved careful consideration and artistic integration.

Far from being a mere utilitarian zone, the Attic captivates with its sixty catenary arches, creating an airy, sculptural environment that guides the eye and soothes the spirit. Its design is a prime example of Gaudí's innovative use of natural forms and structural ingenuity, making it an indispensable part of the Casa Batlló experience. Visitors today can immerse themselves in a space that was once the backbone of daily life for the Batlló family, now celebrated for its aesthetic beauty and historical significance.

History & Cultural Background

Casa Batlló, a jewel of Catalan Modernisme, underwent a radical transformation between 1904 and 1906 under the visionary leadership of Antoni Gaudí. Commissioned by Josep Batlló, a wealthy textile industrialist, the project aimed to remodel an existing 19th-century building into a distinguished residence. The Attic, or 'Loft,' played a crucial role in the domestic life of the Batlló family and the other tenants. It was conceived as the service area, housing communal facilities such as storage rooms and laundry facilities, demonstrating that even back then, multi-family residences required communal infrastructure.

Gaudí's design for the Attic exemplifies his commitment to both aesthetics and functionality, a hallmark of the Modernisme movement. Rather than concealing these service areas, he elevated them into an architectural statement. The construction, featuring catenary brick arches, was a technical feat that allowed for open, well-lit spaces, challenging conventional building norms of the era. The remodeling of Casa Batlló became a pinnacle of Catalan Modernism, integrating Gaudí's deep connection to nature and traditional elements into a revolutionary architectural language.

What Makes It Special

The true magic of Casa Batlló's Attic lies in its distinctive architecture, particularly the remarkable series of catenary arches. There are sixty of these parabolic forms, stretching rhythmically across the ceiling, creating an almost surreal, bone-like structure. This design evokes the image of a great animal's thoracic cage, contributing to the building's nickname, 'House of Bones,' and providing an architectural prelude to the 'Dragon's Back' on the roof.

Gaudí's genius is evident in how these arches, while structurally sound, also imbue the space with a sense of lightness and fluidity. The bone-coloured plastering and stark white walls further enhance the airy, sculptural feel, making it an enveloping and unique experience. The careful integration of natural light, optimized through the enlarged central courtyard, ensures that this area, despite its interior location, feels bright and open. Every curve and surface speaks of Gaudí's innovative vision, turning a formerly mundane space into a captivating architectural journey.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

Many interpret Casa Batlló as a homage to Catalonia's patron saint, Sant Jordi (Saint George), and the legend of the dragon. The undulating roof, covered in shimmering ceramic tiles, is widely seen as the dragon's scaly back, with the cross-topped turret representing Saint George's lance. In this evocative narrative, the Attic's catenary arches are often described as the very ribcage of the dragon, drawing visitors deeper into the mythical tale that Gaudí wove into the building's fabric.

Gaudí's commitment to avoiding straight lines wherever possible is famously showcased throughout Casa Batlló, and the Attic is no exception, with its flowing forms and parabolic arches. This natural, organic approach extended to every detail, from the structural elements to the light distribution, reflecting his profound respect for nature as his primary source of inspiration. The fact that such an elegant and innovative solution was applied to what was essentially a service floor speaks volumes about Gaudí's holistic design philosophy and his belief that beauty and poetry could be found even in the most functional parts of a building.

Visitor Perspective

Today, a visit to the Attic of Casa Batlló offers a profound sense of stepping into a living, breathing work of art. As you traverse the corridor lined with sixty catenary arches, the interplay of light and shadow, combined with the sculptural forms, creates a meditative and awe-inspiring atmosphere. It is a space that encourages contemplation, inviting visitors to appreciate the intricate details and the ingenious engineering behind Gaudí's vision.

The journey through the Attic is an integral part of understanding the entire Casa Batlló experience, revealing how Gaudí integrated natural forms and functional solutions into every corner of the house. It's an opportunity to connect with the past, to imagine the daily lives of the Batlló family, and to marvel at how a utilitarian area was elevated to such artistic heights. For any curious traveler, the Attic is not just a room; it's an immersive chapter in the fantastical story of Casa Batlló, leaving a lasting impression of Gaudí's boundless creativity and his unique way of seeing the world.