Antoni Gaudí built this mansion during the years 1886-89 for his patron, textile baron Count Eusebi de Güell, and soon found himself in the international limelight. The dark facade is a dramatic foil for the treasure house inside, where spear-shape Art Nouveau columns frame the windows and prop up a series of intricately coffered wood ceilings. Gaudí is most himself on the roof, where his playful, polychrome ceramic chimneys fit right in with later works like Park Güell and La Pedrera. The palace is only partially open (and has free entry) during restorations, which will extend at least through 2008. Check the Web site for updates.
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