Catalonia, the region around Barcelona, was home to one of Spain's most fascinating, eccentric and controversial artists: Salvador Dali.
Today, I'd like to take you on a tour of all the places still imbued with his work.
Here we go!
Dali in Barcelona: article summary
Who was Salvador Dali?
Salvador Dali is one of the most famous artists of the XXᵉ century. He is also one of the most famous Surrealist painters. Although he was one of the movement's leaders, he was often in conflict with its other members.
Salvador Dali was born in the small town of Figuereslocated near the Spanish border with France. His artistic talent was discovered at an early age. After completing his secondary education, he enrolled at the Academy of Fine Arts in Madrid. He did not stay long, however, as he protested against his teachers, whom he considered to be mediocre artists. This led to his expulsion from the Academy.
Dali enjoyed success early in his career. By the age of 32, he was already gracing the cover of Time Magazine. Dali was a celebrity in the true sense of the word during his lifetime.
Places linked to Salvador Dali around Barcelona
Salvador Dali's most interesting places are located outside Barcelona. The three places linked to it are often referred to as the Dalinian triangle.
Dali Theatre and Museum in Figueres
Opened in 1974, the Theatre and Dali Museum in Figueres houses the most extensive collection of artworks by the famous surrealist artist. He began work on his museum in the 1960s, and it was the main focus of his work for the next fourteen years. before it opens its doors to the public.
The museum is unique because it was designed by the artist himself. The building features some of Dali's most recognizable symbols, such as eggs or bread rollsoutside. The main museum exhibits come from Dali's private collection. Some of the most exciting works of art you can see there are the Rainy Taxi, the Mae West room and some of Gala's portraits.
The museum also serves as Salvador Dali's burial place. Although there is some controversy surrounding the location of his grave. Dali and Gala planned to end up buried together in their house in Pubol. Shortly before his death, Dali is said to have asked the mayor of Figueres for his remains to be buried in his museum.
Salvador Dali's house in Portlligat
Salvador Dali's home in Portlligat is where the artist lived for over forty years. He first bought a small fisherman's cottage in the 1930s. Later, he bought the neighboring houses, enlarging his property.
Today, Salvador Dali's home in Portlligat is a museum where you can see his former house, studio, library and many other things that belonged to the artist.
Gala Dali's castle in Pubol
Visit Gala Dali castle in Pubol is one of my favorite Salvador Dali places around Barcelona.
In 1969, Dali bought a medieval castle from his wife Gala. Although the place wasn't in the best condition, the artist shaped it in his own way. It was a quiet, romantic place where his wife Gala could relax and unwind. create your own artwork.
Today, the castle is a charming museum where you can see some of Dali's art. Here you can feel a special atmosphere that has cradled the daily life of the Dali couple.
The region around Barcelona is home to many fascinating museums and sites linked to the life and work of this famous surrealist artist. Although his life was controversial, he was undoubtedly one of the greatest artists of all time. Visit these places, you'll feel the full creative power of the artist.
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