In 1976 Spain issued a series of three postage stamps to commemorate The 125th Anniversary of the Customs Association. Published in 6 million copies each, stamps were dedicated to Customs buildings located in Cadiz, Madrid and Barcelona. Here we want to talk about a Barcelona building, which is a familiar city landmark for everyone who visited this wonderful city.
Nestled in the heart of Barcelona, the “La Aduana” or the Customs House stands as a testament to architectural artistry and maritime significance. Overlooking the historic Old Port and positioned strategically in front of the Atarazanas in the Raval district, its construction between 1896 and 1902 marked a period of rapid urban expansion and architectural innovation.
Designed by the renowned Catalan architect Enric Sagnier i Villavecchia in collaboration with Pere Garcia Fària, the Customs House embodies a harmonious blend of eclectic and neoclassical styles. The building’s H-shaped layout is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, ensuring efficient internal operations while presenting a grand facade to the port and city.
The sea-facing side of the structure, with its lower elevation, evokes elements of industrial architecture, reminiscent of the warehouses that would have been common in port areas. This part of the building features elongated windows and utilitarian brickwork, emphasizing its primary role in goods inspection and storage.
In stark contrast, the main body of the structure draws heavily from neoclassical inspirations. The facade is a symphony of ornate columns, pilasters, and pediments, all meticulously crafted to exude grandeur. Classical motifs, predominantly of the Ionic order, adorn the building, with fluted columns supporting intricately designed capitals.
A significant highlight of the Customs House is its artistic collaborations. Eusebi Arnau, a maestro of his time, graced the facade with his sculptural renditions. The building boasts a Central European architectural flair, further embellished with Arnau’s detailed sculptures of eagles, winged lions, and the prominent coats of arms of Barcelona, Catalonia, and Spain.
Rich ornamentation is a recurring theme throughout the building. From the cornices to the window arches, every detail is accentuated with classical elements, be it in the form of relief sculptures, friezes, or decorative moldings. The facade’s monumental appearance, combined with its luxurious ornamentation, positions the building as a significant landmark, bridging Barcelona’s maritime past with its urban present.
As the city of Barcelona evolved, with bustling tourist zones weaving their way into its historical fabric, the customs operations found a new home in the Free Zone. Yet, the Customs House remains, standing resiliently, echoing tales of architectural brilliance and the city’s maritime legacy.