Atalaya Tower: A Symbol of Barcelona's Escola de Barcelona

Atalaya Tower is a symbol of Barcelona's Escola de Barcelona, an architectural movement developed in Catalonia between 1960 and 1970. Located in the heart of the city on Avinguda de la Diagonal, the 70-metre tall building is the work of the Catalan two-man architectural team of Correa-Milà.

The Correa-Milà Team

Frederic Correa and Alfons Milà i Sagnier were school friends since they were ten years old and both got their degrees in architecture from the University of Barcelona. In 1953 they opened an architecture office together, and as well as Torre Atalaya they co-designed Barcelona’s Olympic Ring and the interior of Restaurant Reno (1961), among many other works.

Inspired by the Modern Movement

Inspired by the Modern Movement, with such masters as Josep Antoni Coderch, with whom they collaborated for many years, their work is an interpretation of the architectural heritage of the great Catalan masters, and has led to its own movement.

The Barcelona School

The Atalaya is one of the most characteristic buildings of the so-called Escola de Barcelona, or Barcelona school, an architectural movement developed in Catalonia between 1960 and 1970. The movement is characterised by austerity and elegance and gives a nod to northern Italian architecture from the 1950s and 60s. The common stylistic stamp is the search for structure and logic, simple lines and innovative shapes, with emphasis on interior design and the urban planning surrounding the buildings.

The Interior of Atalaya Tower

The interior of Atalaya Tower is a stunning example of the Barcelona school of architecture. The building is laid out over nine floors, each with its own unique design elements. From the spacious and airy lobby to the elegant and modern staircases, the interior of Atalaya Tower is a testament to the creativity and skill of the Correa-Milà team. The building also features a rooftop terrace, offering stunning views of the city.

Visiting Atalaya Tower

Atalaya Tower is open to the public and offers guided tours throughout the year. Visitors can explore the building's interior and exterior, as well as learn about its history and the architects who designed it. The tours are a great way to appreciate the beauty and significance of Atalaya Tower in the context of Barcelona's architectural heritage.

Conclusion

Atalaya Tower is an iconic example of the Escola de Barcelona, a movement of architecture that has come to define the city of Barcelona. The building's interior is a testament to the creativity and skill of the Correa-Milà team, and its rooftop terrace provides stunning views of the city. Visitors to Barcelona can explore the building's interior and exterior on guided tours throughout the year, learning about its history and the architects who designed it.