Rafael Masó i Valentí (1880–1935) was one of Catalonia’s most important architects and the leading figure of Noucentisme in Girona — a local movement that brought order, harmony, and Mediterranean beauty to the more flamboyant Modernisme of Barcelona.
His architecture blends tradition with innovation, craftsmanship with modernity, always rooted in Catalan identity and cultural pride.
????️ Highlights of Rafael Masó’s Work in Girona
Girona is the perfect city to explore Masó’s legacy, with several of his most iconic buildings located right in the heart of the old town.
1. Casa Masó
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???? Carrer Ballesteries, 29
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This was Masó’s birthplace and family home, and it’s considered his architectural masterpiece in Girona. Located along the River Onyar, its soft-toned façade is part of the famous row of colored houses that define the city’s skyline.
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Today, Casa Masó is a museum, offering a rare glimpse into early 20th-century bourgeois life. With its custom furniture, stained-glass windows, and elegant layouts, it reflects Masó’s philosophy: beauty must serve daily life.
2. Farinera Teixidor
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A former flour factory turned architectural landmark. It showcases Masó’s ability to apply modernist principles to industrial design, combining ceramic details and wrought iron with clean, geometric lines.
3. Casa Gispert-Saüch
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A more discreet yet equally refined residence, this home displays Masó’s careful attention to natural light, symmetry, and hand-crafted detail.
✨ Did You Know?
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Masó was inspired by William Morris and the Arts and Crafts movement, which emphasized craftsmanship and artistic integrity.
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He wasn’t just an architect — he was also a writer and cultural activist, advocating for the protection of Girona’s heritage and its artistic soul.
