Casa Lleó Morera

Casa Lleó Morera, one of the masterpieces of Catalan modernist architecture, is located at number 35 Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona. Designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner and completed in 1905, the house represents a harmonious fusion of architectural and decorative styles, reflecting the eclectic and innovative taste of its patron, Francesca Morera, and later her son Albert Lleó i Morera. The facade of Casa Lleó Morera is an explosion of ornamental details that mix neogothic and modernist elements. Made of carved stone, it is adorned with floral and animal sculptures, mythological figures, and vegetal motifs that seem to organically grow from the structure itself. The twisted columns on the ground floor and the colorful mosaics decorating the windows are works of artisans Lluís Bru i Salelles and Mario Maragliano, who contributed to creating an extraordinary visual effect. Inside, the house continues to amaze with its refined details. The furnishings, largely designed by Gaspar Homar, are an example of high-quality craftsmanship, with inlaid furniture decorated with naturalistic motifs. The stained glass windows, made by master glassmaker Antoni Rigalt, filter the light creating color plays that illuminate the rooms with a magical aura. The lamps by Antoni Serra and the carved coffered ceilings complete the elegant and sophisticated atmosphere of the house. One of the most iconic elements of the interior is the large hall, which served as a reception room for guests. Here, the Nolla mosaic floors and the inlaid wood panels combine to create a luxurious and welcoming environment. The plaster decorations, sculptures by Eusebi Arnau, and ceramics by Alfons Juyol further enrich the interiors, turning each room into a standalone work of art. The history of Casa Lleó Morera is closely linked to the Lleó i Morera family, who made it their residence until the 1940s. The house was commissioned by Francesca Morera, who unfortunately died before the completion of the works. Her son Albert Lleó i Morera inherited the property and decided to continue the project, relying on the artistic vision of Domènech i Montaner. The house is named after Lleó, the lion, symbol of the family, and Morera, the mulberry tree, which appears in numerous decorative details as a symbol of rebirth and prosperity. From an artistic point of view, Casa Lleó Morera is a masterpiece of Catalan modernism, a style that combined the use of new technologies and materials with a deep respect for traditional craftsmanship. Domènech i Montaner, one of the main exponents of this movement, was able to integrate classical architectural elements with structural and decorative innovations, creating a building that is both modern and rooted in tradition. One of the most interesting anecdotes concerns the restoration of the facade, damaged during the Spanish Civil War. In the 1980s, a careful restoration work brought the building back to its former glory, allowing visitors to once again appreciate the mastery and beauty of the original details.