Palacio de Gaudi | Santander

The Palacio de Gaudí, also known as El Capricho de Gaudí, is an architectural gem located in Comillas, a town in Cantabria, northern Spain. Built in the late 19th century by the celebrated architect Antoni Gaudí, it is one of the few buildings he designed outside of Catalonia. Known for its whimsical style and vibrant colors, El Capricho showcases Gaudí’s early experimentation with Modernisme (Catalan Art Nouveau) and nature-inspired designs.

Key Features of Palacio de Gaudí:

Unique Design and Structure:

• El Capricho is a summer villa built between 1883 and 1885 for Máximo Díaz de Quijano, a wealthy music lover and patron. This residence is one of Gaudí’s early works, completed when he was just beginning to establish his signature style.
• The palace is instantly recognizable by its distinctive cylindrical tower, covered in ceramic sunflower tiles. The sunflowers symbolize Quijano’s fascination with nature and sun, both recurring themes in Gaudí’s later work.

Modernisme and Natural Inspiration:

• Gaudí designed El Capricho with a strong connection to nature in mind. The palace incorporates organic shapes, floral tiles, and intricate wood and ironwork that reflect Gaudí’s reverence for natural forms.
• The building is a fantastic example of Modernisme, marked by its flowing, organic lines and use of vibrant colors, particularly greens and yellows, which add a cheerful, lively feel.

Symbolism and Musical Influence:

• Known as the "caprice" or "whim," the building is named for its playful, imaginative design that appears almost like a musical composition. Gaudí’s use of sunflower tiles around the house represents movement and harmony, symbolizing Quijano's love for music and nature.
• The house’s layout and design reflect an attention to musical themes, with details that evoke rhythm and melody, creating a harmonious visual experience.

Materials and Techniques:

• Gaudí used a variety of materials in his construction, including brick, iron, ceramic tiles, and wood, blending them in an innovative way that was ahead of his time.
• The ceramic tilework (trencadís) that adorns the building is typical of Gaudí’s style, using a collage-like method to create colorful, textured surfaces.

Interior Design:

• The interiors of El Capricho are equally unique, with stained glass windows, wooden ceilings, and detailed ironwork. The windows are carefully placed to maximize natural light, and each room is designed with functionality in mind, an early example of Gaudí’s later focus on ergonomic architecture.
• The house also features numerous artistic details, like intricate carvings on doorframes and colorful ceramic decorations that contribute to the building’s playful charm.

Gardens and Surroundings:

• The palace is surrounded by gardens, which are landscaped to complement the building’s natural motifs. The garden pathways and layout reflect Gaudí’s affinity for nature, blending with the villa’s exterior in a harmonious design.
• The gardens provide an ideal backdrop for the palace, adding to its charm and enhancing the experience for visitors exploring the grounds.

Visiting El Capricho:

• El Capricho de Gaudí is open to the public as a museum, allowing visitors to explore the unique architecture and gardens. The building has become a significant cultural landmark in Comillas, attracting Gaudí enthusiasts and tourists interested in Modernisme.
• The museum offers guided tours, exhibitions, and occasional events, giving visitors insight into Gaudí’s early work and design philosophy.

Conclusion:

El Capricho de Gaudí is a delightful example of Antoni Gaudí's innovative and imaginative style, embodying his early fascination with nature, music, and color. This charming palace in Comillas offers a glimpse into the genius of one of the world’s most renowned architects, making it a must-visit destination for anyone captivated by Gaudí’s unique approach to architecture and art.