Cristòfor from Barcelona
Portal Miralles Barcelona
A rare Gaudí gem
Without Gaudí's architecture, Barcelona would have a completely different identity.
Everyone knows of Gaudí's work, and most people who have visited the city will probably have experienced at least one of his well-known works such as La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell or La Pedrera.
However, what many people do not know (not even barcelonins) is that Gaudí was responsible for some hidden gems around the city.
Portal Miralles, in Sarrià, is one of those gems.
In 1901, as Gaudí was starting work on Park Güell, he was approached by an industrialist, with whom he collaborated before, called Eugeni Miralles. Miralles commissioned Gaudí to design a private house with a perimeter wall in Sarrià. Gaudí started work but ended up only doing the wall and entrance gate. His assistant, Domingo Sugrañes, built the house, which does not exist anymore.
This huge, 8-meter-high arch, complete with wavy wall and trencadís, topped with a wrought-iron cross, seems to appear out of nowhere, almost surreally, because the original building has gone and it is surrounded by modern apartments.
There is a human-sized statue of Antoni Gaudí by sculptor Joaquim Camps, standing in the entrance.
If you continue walking along the same street, you'll find the impressive Pavellons Güell, another Gaudí gem, which is currently under renovation.
Being honest, I did not know about this architectural gem before; I came across it recently when I was exploring Sarrià with a friend, and I was really impressed. As I think you will be, too.
Our Barcelona City Guide
Find your way with 178 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Join as a Spotter?
Loved this Spot? And love your city? Join your local team. Share your favs and become part of our international community!
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Barcelona
Topik
Culinary Harmony in Barcelona
Topik blends Catalan cuisine with primarily Asian influences, offering traditional, slow-cooked dishes with intense flavors and perfect execution.
by
Cesar
Gonzalez
Reial Cercle Artistic
Cultural Melting Pot
Beyond its galleries and stages, you're invited to unleash your creativity through workshops, or immerse yourself in theater or film clubs.
by
Cesar
Gonzalez
Ca La Roseta
The search is over
The first time I had a coffee at "Ca La Roseta", I told the owner 'this is the best coffee I've had in Barcelona'; he calmly replied: 'of course it is!'
by
Andia
Ago
Collonut
Tapas, vermut, vermut & vermut
"Collonut" in Barcelona is a typical Catalunyan vermut and tapas bar, but they have managed to give it a nice young touch - and it's not a tourist trap!
by
Rafael
Maggion
Fishology
Fish like you've never seen before
"Fishology" in Barcelona makes some really cool things with fish. It has everything it takes to become an emblematic spot in town!
by
Rafael
Maggion
El Tigre
Bar with tropical vibes
"El Tigre" is a lovely terrace with tropical vibes in Barcelona! It got me hooked from the 1st time! My favorite here is the pomada, a refreshing gin-lemonade...
by
Ilse
de Ridder
Parallelo
Artisanal street gelato!
"Parallelo" gelato is my absolute favourite in Barcelona. Totally worth the 2.5-km walk there. My favorite is the cream-peanut-dulce de leche ice cream!
by
Ilse
de Ridder
Frankfurt Sant Jaume
The lovers’ sandwich
With a bar that comfortably fits only 2 people, it's the quintessential nook that beckons you to dive into the city's authenticity.
by
Cesar
Gonzalez
Paco Meralgo
Barcelona's Culinary Delight
While sticking to your favorite dishes is fine, the daily specials you can find here allow you to explore new flavors with seasonal products.
by
Cesar
Gonzalez
Nectari
Barcelona's Culinary Harmony
The soul behind these flavors is Chef Jordi Esteve, who describes his cooking as "modern and imaginative", blending tradition with a contemporary touch.
by
Cesar
Gonzalez
Granja Elena
Humble Haute Cuisine in Barcelona
Their commitment to fresh ingredients and the option for half portions or tasting format dishes is perfect for sampling their consistently superb cuisine.
by
Cesar
Gonzalez
Celler Panotxa
Coolest corner for eclectic vibes
The crowd at Celler Panotxa is an eclectic mix, spanning various styles. This diversity extends to their menu, which is surprisingly comprehensive.
by
Cesar
Gonzalez
Heading to Barcelona?
178 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 178 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Barcelona
Get to know our other Spotters from Barcelona
As featured on:
