Gala Dalí Castle, Medieval castle museum in La Pera, Spain
Gala Dalí Castle is a former medieval fortress that the artist transformed with distinctive decorative details and surrealist touches throughout the 1960s. Beyond ornately furnished rooms and a library, the grounds feature sprawling gardens with sculptures and pools.
The fortress dates to the 11th century and stood vacant for years before Dalí purchased and restored it in 1969. He converted it into a summer retreat for Gala, who stayed there seasonally until 1980 and then sealed it closed after her departure.
The castle bears Gala's name, honoring her role as Dalí's muse and wife, and her presence shapes how visitors experience the rooms throughout the property. Personal items and artistic decoration reveal how central she was to his creative work.
Visiting requires time to explore all areas, from the living spaces to the expansive grounds with their varied gardens. Comfortable shoes are recommended since you will walk considerably and some sections feature uneven terrain.
Throughout the castle, Dalí created trompe-l'œil paintings on everyday objects, blurring the line between art and architecture in unexpected ways. These hidden artistic touches turn the building into a visual puzzle where visitors discover new surprises on repeated visits.
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