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El Capricho

Comillas, Spain

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El Capricho, Comillas, Spain: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the coastal town of Comillas, Cantabria, El Capricho de Gaudí stands as a brilliant testament to Antoni Gaudí’s early architectural ingenuity and the evolving artistic landscape of 19th-century Spain. Commissioned in the early 1880s by Máximo Díaz de Quijano and constructed between 1883 and 1885, this enchanting villa blends Moorish, Oriental, and organic motifs that foreshadow Gaudí’s later masterpieces. As one of his few works outside Catalonia, El Capricho is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts and cultural travelers alike, offering a unique window into Modernisme and the social transformation of Comillas (EFE; My Modern Met; dosde.com).

This comprehensive guide provides all the essential details—history, architectural highlights, visiting hours, tickets, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions—to help you plan a seamless and enriching visit to El Capricho. For the latest updates and ticket bookings, refer to the official website.

Table of Contents

History and Cultural Significance

Commissioned by the affluent lawyer Máximo Díaz de Quijano in the early 1880s, El Capricho was designed as a summer residence that reflected both the wealth and avant-garde spirit of Comillas’ elite. Gaudí, then in his early thirties, was recommended by mentor Joan Martorell and quickly distinguished himself with this playful, innovative design. The villa was completed in 1885, a year after Díaz de Quijano’s untimely death (Wikipedia).

El Capricho’s creation coincided with Comillas’ transformation into a center of architectural experimentation, spurred by the patronage of Antonio López y López, the Marquess of Comillas. The town attracted renowned architects, leading to a unique blend of Modernist, Neo-Gothic, and Orientalist structures that continue to define its skyline (The Mind Circle; spainthisway.com).

Gaudí’s Design Philosophy and Architectural Innovations

El Capricho embodies Gaudí’s early Modernisme style, characterized by its whimsical forms, rich color palette, and integration with nature. The villa’s sunflower-adorned façade, exuberant ceramic tiles, and minaret-like tower highlight Gaudí’s fascination with sunlight, music, and organic motifs (EFE; My Modern Met).

  • Integration with Nature and Light: The villa is oriented to maximize sunlight throughout the day, with rooms arranged to capture morning, afternoon, or summer light. A central conservatory acts as the heart of the house, earning El Capricho its “architectural sunflower” nickname (EFE).

  • Decorative Motifs and Materials: The building features over 6,000 ceramic sunflower tiles, wrought iron elements shaped like musical notes, and a vibrant color scheme that harmonizes with the surrounding landscape. The tower’s silhouette, inspired by Persian minarets, reflects Gaudí’s early “orientalist” phase (My Modern Met; dosde.com).

  • Spatial Innovation: Functional spaces are arranged across three floors, with living quarters, service areas, and a greenhouse that moderates light and temperature. The villa’s layout and details prefigure many of Gaudí’s later innovations (dosde.com).

Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Booking

Opening Hours

  • July and August: Daily, 10:00–21:00 (last entry 20:30)
  • March–June & September–October: 10:30–20:00
  • November–February: 10:30–17:30

Hours may change on holidays or for special events. Always verify on the official website before your visit (whichmuseum.com; comillas.es).

Ticket Options and Prices

  • Self-Guided Visit:

    • Adults: €7
    • Reduced: €5 (seniors, students, teachers, large families, disabled, unemployed; valid ID required)
    • Children 7–12: €3
    • Under 7: Free

  • Guided Visit:

    • Adults: €10
    • Reduced: €8
    • Children 7–12: €6
    • Under 7: Free
    • Guided tours in English are usually at 12:30 and 16:30

Audioguides in five languages are included in self-guided tickets (elcaprichodegaudi.com).

Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially in high season. Buy tickets online at tickets.elcaprichodegaudi.com or onsite if available. Group bookings and special arrangements can be made via +34 942 720 365 or [email protected] (fascinatingspain.com).

Accessibility and Visitor Facilities

  • Wheelchair Access: The entrance and much of the ground floor are accessible. Upper floors and some garden paths may be challenging due to the building’s historic nature (elcaprichodegaudi.com).
  • Restrooms: Modern, including accessible facilities.
  • Gift Shop: Sells Gaudí-themed souvenirs and local crafts (bcn.travel).
  • Gardens: Landscaped grounds feature unique Gaudí elements and picturesque spots for photography (thegeographicalcure.com).
  • Service Animals: Permitted.
  • Photography: Allowed (no flash or tripods in some areas).

Getting There and Parking

  • Address: Barrio Sobrellano S/N, 39520 Comillas, Cantabria (thegeographicalcure.com)
  • By Car: 50 km west of Santander, free parking nearby, 40–50 minutes via the A-8 motorway (bcn.travel)
  • By Public Transport: Regional buses connect Santander and Comillas, though frequency is limited (duckexplore.com)
  • On Foot: The villa is a short, scenic walk from Comillas town center (spainthisway.com)

Guided Tours and Special Events

Free or discounted guided tours are sometimes available via local accommodations and the Comillas town council (movetospain.es). Tours in Spanish and English provide in-depth insights into Gaudí’s vision and the villa’s history. Special exhibitions and cultural events may be scheduled throughout the year—check the official website for updates.

Nearby Attractions in Comillas

Round out your visit by exploring Comillas’ rich architectural and cultural heritage:

  • Sobrellano Palace and Chapel: Neo-Gothic masterpiece by Joan Martorell, with guided tours and period interiors (Spain Then and Now).
  • Pontifical University of Comillas: Blending Renaissance and Gothic elements, accessible via guided visit (Live the World).
  • Comillas Old Town: Stroll cobbled streets, see the Fuente Tres Caños and Casa Ocejo, and enjoy local cafés (Wanderlog).
  • Beaches: Playa de Comillas (family-friendly) and Playa de Oyambre (within Oyambre Natural Park) offer scenic respite.
  • Parks and Viewpoints: Güell y Martos Park and Mirador de Santa Lucía provide green spaces and panoramic views.

Day trips to Santander, Cueva El Soplao, and Oyambre Natural Park are also recommended for extended stays.

Practical Tips and FAQs

  • Duration: Allow at least 1–1.5 hours for a thorough visit.
  • Capacity Control: Book ahead to secure your preferred time slot.
  • Children: Under 7 enter free; discounted rates for ages 7–12.
  • Food & Drink: Not permitted inside; enjoy local restaurants nearby (bcn.travel).
  • Language: Tours and staff available in Spanish and English; audioguides in several languages (comillas.es).
  • Weather: Check the forecast to enjoy the gardens fully.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: Are guided tours available in languages other than Spanish and English?
    A: Primarily in Spanish and English; audioguides available in multiple languages.

  • Q: Is El Capricho wheelchair accessible?
    A: The ground floor and main entrance are accessible; upper levels may be challenging.

  • Q: How do I get tickets?
    A: Book online at tickets.elcaprichodegaudi.com or at the entrance (subject to availability).

  • Q: Can I take photographs inside?
    A: Yes, but without flash or tripods.

Plan Your Visit

For an enhanced experience, download the Audiala app for interactive audio guides and up-to-date visitor information. Explore Comillas’ diverse historical sites, sample local cuisine, and immerse yourself in Cantabria’s vibrant cultural life. Plan ahead, especially during peak months, and make the most of your journey into Gaudí’s early genius.

Visit The Most Interesting Places In Comillas

El Capricho
El Capricho

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