Bellesguard / Casa Figueres (Bellesguard Castle House), Barcelona

Bellesguard, which translates to "beautiful spot," was selected by medieval Catalan kings as their summer residence in the scenic Collserola hills. The castle, constructed in 1408, served as a cherished dwelling for Martí the Humanist, the final sovereign count-king of the Catalan-Aragonese realm, before his reign came to an end just two years later.

In tribute to its medieval history, Gaudí adorned the castle with a tower, gargoyles, and crenellated battlements, while incorporating elements of Art Nouveau such as the catenary arches, trencadís on the facade, and stained-glass windows. Keep an eye out for the red and gold Catalan senyera (banner) on the tower, topped with Gaudí's distinctive four-armed Greek cross. Above the entrance, you'll find the inscription "Sens pecat fou concebuda" (English: "Without sin was she conceived"), alluding to the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary.

On either side of the entrance, there are benches adorned with playful fish made of trencadís, featuring the crimson four bars of the Catalan flag and the Crown of Aragón. The visit includes access to the roof, designed by Gaudí to resemble a dragon, as well as the gardens, patio, and stables.

Tip:
Reservations are required for the highly recommended guided tour.