Casa Dorda, Art Nouveau residence in Calle del Carmen, Cartagena, Spain.
Casa Dorda is a three-story building on Calle del Carmen featuring a central courtyard connected to smaller patios. The structure displays columns with Nasrid architectural influences and detailed floral ornaments throughout its facade and interior spaces.
Architect Victor Beltri designed this building in 1908 for the Dorda family, who made their wealth in mining. It was built during a period of intense urban growth in Cartagena when many investors were reshaping the city's neighborhoods.
The central courtyard displays Spanish-Arabic features with horseshoe arches and geometric wall patterns that reflect the region's Moorish past. These elements shape the character of the space where visitors can directly experience the blend of architectural traditions.
The building was renovated in 2010 and now combines residential spaces, offices, and underground parking while preserving its original facade. Visitors can admire the external architecture, though some interior spaces may have restricted access depending on current use.
The interior features elaborately designed ceilings and floor patterns that are rarely visible from the street. These ornaments reveal how wealthy families in the early 20th century invested considerable effort in decorating their private spaces.
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