Metal Fridge Magnet: Spain. Barcelona. Gaudi. Casa Batllo or House of Bones (Bronze Color)

Brief History of the Casa Batllo

The Casa Batllo, also known as the 'House of Bones' is a freakishly designed house whose pillars and balconies are shaped in the form of bones and skulls. The original structure was purchased by a rich industrialist named Josep Battlo, who commissioned the architect Antoni Gaudi to destroy and reconstruct a whole new building. Reconstruction of the house took place between 1904 and 1906, during that time Gaudi completely remodeled the interiors by constructing a brand new roof and facade. These distinct changes further added to the height of the building, which enshrouded it in controversy as the Casa Batllo had violated the building and construction norms of Barcelona. There is a common theory, which suggests that the building pays tribute to King George, the patron saint of Catalonia and his legendary battle with a dragon. This symbolism is made apparent by the colorful dragon like scaled roof, with a turret passing through it, signifying the death of the mythical animal by the blade of King George. Despite its grotesque appearance, the Casa Batllo is a popular tourist hotspot and has been deemed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This metal fridge magnet souvenir depicts a frontal view of the building replete with its bone shaped pillars and hideous exterior.

Inside the House of Bones

The interiors of the Casa Batllo are a far cry from its unsightly exteriors. The attention to detail is fascinating, as is evident from the stained glass windows, vibrant colored tiles and exquisitely designed wooden doors. Gaudi apparently employed the services of professionals who specialized in ceramics, carpeting and iron work to transform the interiors of the Casa Batllo into a masterpiece. Gaudi's trademark style, which eliminates the use of straight lines, is best exemplified in this bizarre architectural marvel.