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Spanish authorities have confirmed that architect Antoni Gaudi designed the Xalet del Catllaras, a mountain shelter built between 1901 and 1908 in Catalonia. The three-storey structure was constructed for workers at a cement factory owned by Gaudi's patron, Eusebi Guell. A 2023 expert study identified signature design elements, including distinctive arches, vaults and 45-degree wall angles linked to Gaudi's mid-career style. The analysis used historical records and 3D modelling to verify authorship. The confirmation officially adds the remote forest building to Gaudi's recognised works, ahead of events marking the centenary of his death in 2026.
Spanish authorities have confirmed that renowned modernist architect Antoni Gaudi designed the Xalet del Catllaras, a mountain shelter located in a remote forest area of Catalonia, ending years of speculation about its authorship. Advertisement
The three-storey structure, built between 1901 and 1908 in La Pobla de Lillet, lies about 125 kilometres north of Barcelona. It was constructed as accommodation for workers at a nearby cement factory owned by industrialist Eusebi Guell, a long-time patron of Gaudi.
Although Gaudi (1852-1926) had long been associated with the building due to his relationship with Guell, there had been no comprehensive technical study confirming his role until 2023. Authorities commissioned an expert report from Gaudi scholar Galdric Santana to examine the structure's origins.
Santana concluded that Gaudi was the designer after identifying architectural elements characteristic of the architect's mid-career style. These included specific types of arches, vaults and rooms divided by walls positioned at 45-degree angles features unique to Gaudi during that period.
According to Santana, these techniques were not adopted by Gaudi's disciples until a decade or more later. The analysis involved reviewing floor plans of other Gaudi projects, using 3D modelling techniques and examining historical documents and photographs.
At the time the building was constructed, Gaudi was also working on major projects in Barcelona, including Park Guell and Casa Batllo. Santana noted that the remote location and the architect's busy schedule had previously cast doubt on his involvement.
The report suggests Gaudi may not have supervised the final construction, as the completed building differs from the original design. This could explain why he never publicly acknowledged the project. During that era, architects sometimes withheld their signature if a building deviated from their plans.
The confirmation adds the Xalet del Catllaras to the list of Gaudi's recognised works. Santana said around ten other buildings remain unverified as potential Gaudi designs.
Commemorative events are planned throughout 2026 to mark the centenary of Gaudi's death.
Source: Reuters
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