El Capricho
Cantabria
El Capricho, also known as Villa Quijano, is a distinctive Modernist villa located in Comillas, Cantabria, Spain. Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí and built between 1883 and 1885, it was commissioned as a summer residence for the wealthy Máximo Díaz de Quijano. The villa exemplifies Gaudí's oriental period, incorporating influences from Gothic, Mudéjar, and Islamic art, visible in its pointed arches and ceramic tile decoration. Its standout feature is the tower adorned with bright yellow sunflower and green leaf motifs, topped with an arabesque minaret-like finish. The villa's exterior combines large stone bricks on the basement, red bricks on the main floor, and a sloped roof with ceramic tiles on the upper floor. Despite falling into disrepair after the Spanish Civil War, El Capricho was declared a National Monument in 1969, restored in the late 20th century, and converted into a museum in 2009. Today, it offers visitors a glimpse into Gaudí's formative architectural style and the cultural richness of late 19th-century Spain.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check opening hours in advance and consider purchasing tickets ahead of time, especially during peak tourist seasons. The best time to visit is spring and early autumn to enjoy pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. The site is accessible by local transport and offers guided tours to enhance the experience.
Interesting facts
- •El Capricho is one of only a few Gaudí buildings outside Catalonia, alongside the Episcopal Palace of Astorga and Casa Botines in León.
- •The villa's tower is decorated with ceramic tiles featuring sunflower motifs, symbolizing its unique blend of nature and architecture.
- •El Capricho was declared a National Monument in 1969 despite falling into disrepair after the Spanish Civil War.
- •In 2023, El Capricho was voted the Best Monument in the World at the Remarkable Venue Awards, with over 50,000 participants globally.
History
El Capricho was built between 1883 and 1885 for Máximo Díaz de Quijano, a wealthy indiano and music and botany enthusiast.
It was one of Gaudí's few projects outside Catalonia during his oriental period, reflecting influences from Near and Far Eastern art as well as Islamic styles.
After the death of its patron shortly after completion, the villa passed through family ownership and underwent modifications in 1914.
Following the Spanish Civil War, it fell into neglect despite being declared a National Monument in 1969.
It was restored in 1988 and later converted into a museum in 2009, preserving Gaudí's early architectural vision.
Place Guide
The Tower1883-1885
The tower is covered with vibrant ceramic tiles depicting yellow sunflowers and green leaves, topped with an arabesque minaret-style finish. Supported by four classical white stone columns, it features a balcony offering panoramic views of Comillas and a steel spiral staircase leading to the top.
The House Exterior1883-1885
The villa's exterior showcases a combination of materials: large stone bricks in the basement, smaller red bricks on the main floor, and a sloped roof adorned with ceramic tiles on the upper floor. Large windows framed by pointed Gothic arches allow ample natural light inside.
Contact
Phone: 942 72 03 65
