Constructed in a cubical design with a Dutch gable, this building was created by Puig i Cadafalch in 1900, and was the first building on the manzana. It stands in sharp contrast to its neighbor, the Gaudí-designed Casa Batlló . The architecture of the Casa Amatller, imposed on a pre-existing edifice, is a vision of ceramic, wrought iron, and sculptures. The structure combines grace notes of Flemish Gothic -- especially on the finish of the facade -- with elements of Catalan architecture. The gable outside is in the Flemish style. Look out for the sculptures of animals blowing glass and taking photos, both hobbies of the architect. They were executed by Eusebi Arnau, an artist much in demand by the modernistas.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's Barcelona, 2nd Edition, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

Find Hotel Deals on Yahoo Travel»