Meet the so-called Blockbuster in Barcelona

For the long term (and not only shopping) to Passeig de Gràcia ve quarter Eixample je a lot of interesting buildings and representative buildings Catalan Modernism. 

Bloc of discord in Barcelona
Well-known houses that are part of the so-called Bloc of discord in Barcelona

If you want to see them as much as possible in one place, head to the so-called The discord block known as Discord's Apple (in translation A bone of contention) or Illa de la Discòrdia (Island of Strife).


A map that shows where in Barcelona the so-called Finds a block of contention

What is Strife Block and why should you see it?

A block of strife is the designation of three houses standing next to each other, under which the famous architects of their time are signed. At the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries, they tried to concentrate the most innovative and impressive works in this place.

What buildings are part of the Block of Strife and who designed them? 

Some also include other houses standing next to the Quarrel Block: Casa Mulleras (designed by Enric Sagnier) and Casa Bonet (Marcel Lià Coquillat).

And although all the buildings were created at more or less the same time only a few years apart, each differs significantly in style. 

The reason is simple: each of the creators approached the work in a slightly different way and it showed in the result. This is where the old name later came from, referring to the struggle of architects and also owners of individual buildings who wanted to have the most distinctive building on a prestigious street. 

Which of the buildings is the best? 

I won't give you an objective answer - everyone has to make their own opinion :-). Some prefer Gaudí's "crazy" approach, while others find the sober view represented by Puig and Cadafalch much more attractive.

Otherwise, don't forget that the exterior of the buildings only tells you half the story - I recommend looking inside as well (but not all buildings are accessible), or at least find on the Internet what it looks like inside. 

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👇 Don't miss this!

  • Discount tourist cards—save on city transportation and get free admission to museums and landmarks, plus great discounts at shops and restaurants.
  • Buy tickets online—save money, time, and stress by purchasing admission to attractions from the comfort of your home through the Barcelona Tourist Office’s online store; if you’ve never bought tickets online before, read my detailed guide along with my personal experience on how to do it.
  • Find Accommodations—plenty of hotels, hostels, and guesthouses at reasonable prices. You can book immediately and pay after your stay.
  • Rent a car—if you don’t want to walk or want to venture further out of Barcelona, try Rental Cars. They’ll deliver the car to the airport, and you won’t have to worry about a thing.

Map with my tips for places in Barcelona

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